The Next 16 Ballon d’Or Winners – Predicted by AI (2025–2040)
AI has cast its gaze into the future of football, forecasting the Ballon d’Or winners for the next decade. From breakthrough stars to seasoned icons finally getting their due, this list outlines who will dominate the global stage from 2025 to 2034.
2025 – Ousmane Dembélé
After revitalizing his career at PSG, Ousmane Dembélé is projected to win his first Ballon d’Or. With 33 goals and 13 assists in 48 games, his explosive form and Champions League heroics make him the frontrunner.
2026 – Kylian Mbappé
Long tipped as the heir to Messi and Ronaldo, Mbappé earns his long-awaited Ballon d’Or in 2026. Now leading Real Madrid and possibly fresh off a World Cup win, the French superstar gets the recognition he deserves.
2027 – Lamine Yamal
At just 17, Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history. After recording 18 goals and 26 assists in 55 games, he solidifies his status as a generational talent and the future face of football.
Read also: 25 Best Young Players in World Football in 2025 - Ranked
2028 – Erling Haaland
Manchester City’s goal machine finally gets his Ballon d’Or moment. Haaland’s consistent dominance in both domestic and European competitions makes him an undeniable choice.
2029 – Lamine Yamal
Yamal adds a second Ballon d’Or to his growing legacy, just two years after his first. Still only 22, his rise mirrors the early career dominance of Lionel Messi.
2030 – Vinicius Jr
Six years after his heartbreak in 2024, Vinicius Jr gets his redemption. Still thriving at Real Madrid, and possibly leading Brazil to World Cup glory, his persistence is finally rewarded.
2031 – Pedri
Barcelona’s midfield magician claims the crown with a season full of consistency and class. With nearly 60 appearances and crucial contributions, Pedri joins the elite club of midfield Ballon d’Or winners.
Read also: The 10 Greatest Attacking Midfielders in Football History
2032 – Florian Wirtz
Germany’s creative dynamo earns football’s highest honor, potentially after a marquee move to Liverpool. His vision, goals, and assists mark him as one of the world's most complete playmakers.
2033 – Jamal Musiala
Musiala steps into the spotlight with a Ballon d’Or win powered by Bayern Munich dominance and international success. Alongside Wirtz, he leads a new golden generation for Germany.
2034 – Lamine Yamal
Yamal wins his third Ballon d’Or at the peak of his career, entering an elite tier of legends. By 27, he’s not just the future—he’s already one of the greatest of all time.
2035 – Endrick
Brazilian wonderkid Endrick fulfills his immense potential by claiming his first Ballon d’Or. With Real Madrid likely as his platform, he dazzles the world with flair, goals, and World Cup dreams.
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2036 – Arda Güler
The Turkish maestro becomes the first from his country to win the Ballon d’Or. His playmaking vision and composure on the biggest stage bring global acclaim after a stellar season at Real Madrid.
2037 – Alejandro Garnacho
Manchester United’s Argentine sensation finally breaks through with a Ballon d’Or. With blistering pace, flair, and crucial goals, Garnacho carries his club back into European contention.
2038 – Warren Zaïre-Emery
France’s next midfield general claims the top prize after dominating for PSG and Les Bleus. Intelligent, composed, and mature beyond his years, Zaïre-Emery defines the new midfield archetype.
2039 – Lamine Yamal
A fourth Ballon d’Or for Yamal sets him apart from almost every player in history. At 32, he remains at the top of his game, combining leadership, numbers, and moments of magic year after year.
Read also: The 15 Greatest Free-Kick Scorers in Football History - Ranked from Lowest to Highest
2040 – Claudio Echeverri
Argentina’s next great hope, Echeverri leads the Albiceleste to Copa America or World Cup glory and wins the Ballon d’Or. A creative force with a never-say-die attitude, he becomes the face of the next Argentine generation.
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