Surprises and Superstars: The 30 Players Nominated for the 2025 Ballon d’Or
The 30-man shortlist for the 2025 Ballon d’Or has been revealed, featuring a blend of established stars, rising talents, and surprise names. Here’s a closer look at each nominee and what earned them a place among the elite.
Ousmane Dembele
The PSG winger has dazzled all season with electric pace and creativity, emerging as a front-runner for the Ballon d'Or. His consistent performances in Ligue 1 and Europe have finally brought him into the global spotlight.
Gianluigi Donnarumma
PSG’s number one has been rock-solid between the posts, pulling off game-changing saves throughout the season. His shot-stopping and leadership have helped guide the Parisians to multiple trophies.
Jude Bellingham
The English midfielder continues to be a driving force at Real Madrid. With goals, assists, and maturity beyond his years, he remains one of the most complete young players in world football.
Read also: The Greatest Wingers in Modern Football – Ranked
Desire Doue
Still only a teenager, Doue’s breakout year with PSG has drawn comparisons to the best midfield prodigies. His flair and fearlessness have made him one to watch in the coming years.
Denzel Dumfries
Inter’s Dutch fullback has blended defensive solidity with attacking runs down the flank. A key figure in both Serie A and the Champions League.
Serhou Guirassy
Guirassy’s clinical finishing for Borussia Dortmund has made him one of Europe’s most efficient strikers. His goals have powered Dortmund deep into European competition.
Erling Haaland
Haaland keeps breaking records with Manchester City. His goal tally and physical dominance remain unmatched in world football.
Read also: Legends of White Hart Lane: Tottenham’s Top 10 All-Time Scorers
Viktor Gyökeres
The Swedish striker has taken the Premier League by storm at Arsenal, providing goals and tireless work rate up front. A revelation this season.
Achraf Hakimi
The Moroccan right-back has been vital for PSG’s defensive and attacking balance. His pace and delivery have been crucial on the wing.
Harry Kane
Kane’s move to Bayern Munich paid off with a flurry of goals and assists. His all-around game has reached new heights in the Bundesliga.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
The Georgian winger has lit up Ligue 1 after joining PSG. His dribbling and unpredictability have thrilled fans across Europe.
Read also: The 15 Best Clay Court Players in Tennis History – Ranked
Robert Lewandowski
Despite aging, Lewandowski remains a top striker for Barcelona. His intelligence and positioning continue to deliver goals at the highest level.
Alexis Mac Allister
The Argentine playmaker has been a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield. His vision and passing range have transformed their transitions.
Lautaro Martinez
Inter’s captain delivered another outstanding season, leading the line with power and precision. One of Serie A’s most reliable forwards.
Scott McTominay
McTominay stunned Serie A by guiding Napoli to the Scudetto and winning MVP honors. A true box-to-box force.
Read also: 15 Football Legends Who Never Won the Ballon d'Or - Ranked
Kylian Mbappe
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappe continues to terrorize defenses with his explosive speed and finishing. A perennial Ballon d’Or contender.
Nuno Mendes
The Portuguese left-back has had a breakout campaign for PSG, combining defensive discipline with attacking thrust on the left flank.
Joao Neves
Neves’ emergence in PSG’s midfield has brought new energy to the team. Calm under pressure and sharp on the ball, he’s a rising star.
Pedri
Barcelona’s midfield maestro remains a model of control and intelligence. When fit, few can dictate the tempo like him.
Read also: Ranking the 10 Strongest WWE Wrestlers of All Time
Cole Palmer
Palmer’s rise at Chelsea has been meteoric. A crucial figure in their Club World Cup win, he’s delivered goals and flair in equal measure.
Michael Olise
Now at Bayern Munich, Olise has impressed with his dribbling and creativity. His composure on the ball belies his age.
Raphinha
The Brazilian winger has stepped up for Barcelona with key goals and assists. His pace and directness have added bite to their attack.
Declan Rice
Arsenal’s midfield enforcer has provided stability, strength, and surprising goal contributions. A true leader on and off the pitch.
Fabian Ruiz
Ruiz has quietly been one of PSG’s most influential players. His technical skill and tactical awareness have been key in big games.
Virgil van Dijk
Liverpool’s defensive rock remains one of the best center-backs in the game. His leadership and aerial dominance are still top-tier.
Vinicius Jr
The Real Madrid winger continues to dazzle with flair and explosiveness. His ability to unlock defenses has been essential for club and country.
Mohamed Salah
Salah maintains his elite level with goals, assists, and match-winning displays. A consistent performer on every stage.
Florian Wirtz
A creative force for Liverpool, Wirtz combines vision, control, and scoring ability. One of Germany’s brightest young stars.
Vitinha
The Portuguese midfielder has flourished at PSG with dynamic movement and link-up play. His work rate and creativity stand out.
Lamine Yamal
Still a teenager, Yamal has taken the world by storm with his fearless performances for Barcelona. A future superstar in the making.
