As the 2024-25 season enters its final stretch, the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or is heating up. With no Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo in contention for the first time in two decades, a new generation of stars is stepping forward. Last year’s winner, Rodri, is out injured, leaving the field wide open. With no World Cup or Euros to sway voters this time, club performance will be the decisive factor. Here are the top 10 candidates for the men’s Ballon d’Or 2025, ranked from strongest contender downward.
1. Raphinha (Barcelona) – Winger, Brazil
Raphinha has emerged as Barcelona’s most decisive player this season. Under Hansi Flick’s leadership, the Brazilian winger has hit incredible form, delivering consistently in La Liga and excelling in the Champions League. With 27 goals and 19 assists across all competitions — including 11 goals in 10 UCL games — Raphinha is both a goal threat and a creative engine. His hat-trick against Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals was pivotal, and his late winner against Benfica further showcased his clutch ability. If Barcelona secure a major trophy this season, Raphinha’s consistent brilliance puts him as the clear front-runner for the Ballon d’Or.
2. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – Right Winger, Egypt
Salah has delivered yet another stunning season, amassing 32 goals and 22 assists across all competitions. He’s directly contributed to over half of Liverpool’s goals this season, with vital strikes in key matches against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Chelsea. However, Liverpool’s early Champions League exit, where Salah struggled in both legs against PSG, may hurt his chances. While Salah’s statistics are staggering, Ballon d’Or voters often prioritize European success, and Liverpool’s lack of deep progress in the tournament could prove costly.
3. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) – Forward, France
Mbappé’s debut season at Real Madrid has seen him find top form after a slow start. With 28 goals in all competitions, including crucial strikes in La Liga and the Champions League, he’s established himself as the focal point of Madrid’s attack. His Champions League 
-trick against Manchester City solidified his status as a game-changer. If Madrid lift the Champions League trophy or Mbappé stars in the UEFA Nations League finals this summer, he could rise to the top of this list.
4. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain) – Winger, France
Dembélé has been one of the biggest surprises this season. With 20 goals and 5 assists in Ligue 1 and 7 goals in 10 Champions League matches, he has emerged as PSG’s most influential attacker. His dazzling dribbling and improved finishing have turned him into a nightmare for defenders. His standout performance in PSG’s Champions League win over Liverpool boosted his global profile significantly. If PSG makes a deep Champions League run, Dembélé’s Ballon d’Or case could become even stronger.
5. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) – Striker, England
Kane’s second season at Bayern has been nothing short of exceptional. With 32 goals and 11 assists in 36 games, Kane has combined clinical finishing with intelligent link-up play. He’s delivered key goals in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League. With Bayern in contention for major silverware, Kane’s prolific goal-scoring has him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation. If he can finally claim a major club trophy, Kane’s case becomes even stronger.
6. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – Midfielder, England
Bellingham’s all-around game has made him Real Madrid’s most influential midfielder this season. With 11 goals and 11 assists, his ability to control tempo, create chances, and defend at a high level has made him invaluable. Despite his reduced attacking output compared to last season, Bellingham’s consistency and leadership continue to shine. Should Madrid achieve Champions League success or Bellingham star in crucial matches, his claim for the Ballon d’Or will grow stronger.
7. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona) – Striker, Poland
At 36, Lewandowski has defied age with a resurgent season. With 34 goals in 39 games, he’s been vital in Barcelona’s La Liga and Champions League campaigns. After a sluggish 2023-24 campaign, Lewandowski’s return to form has been key to Barcelona’s success. His clinical finishing, combined with renewed energy under Flick’s system, has reminded fans why he was once an elite Ballon d’Or contender. If Barcelona win the Champions League, Lewandowski’s resurgence could see him crowned Ballon d’Or winner.
8. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) – Attacking Midfielder, Germany
The youngest player in the Ballon d’Or race, Wirtz has been Bayer Leverkusen’s standout performer this season. With 15 goals and 13 assists, Wirtz has been crucial in Leverkusen’s impressive campaign. His vision, passing, and dribbling have made him one of the most exciting creative midfielders in Europe. Although Leverkusen face stiff competition for major trophies, Wirtz’s performances have been exceptional. While he may fall short this year, his potential to win future Ballon d’Or trophies is undeniable.
9. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid) – Winger, Brazil
Vinícius has experienced an inconsistent season but remains one of Real Madrid’s most dangerous attackers. With 18 goals and 11 assists, he has maintained a strong goal output despite injuries and tactical adjustments. Although he has been overshadowed at times by Mbappé, Vinícius has produced clutch performances in key moments. If Madrid secures a major trophy, Vinícius’ influence on the left wing could still push him into serious Ballon d’Or contention.
10. Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid) – Forward, Argentina
Álvarez’s first season at Atlético Madrid has been impressive, with 22 goals and 5 assists in all competitions. Transitioning from a supporting role at Manchester City to Atlético’s main striker, Álvarez has thrived in Diego Simeone’s defensive setup. His tireless pressing, goal-scoring consistency, and decisive performances in big games have elevated Atlético’s season. While Álvarez’s Ballon d’Or hopes rely heavily on team success, his individual performances have placed him in the conversation.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ballon d’Or race is incredibly competitive, with Raphinha, Salah, and Mbappé leading the way. Champions League performances and domestic trophies will likely determine the ultimate winner. With so many elite performers in contention, the final months of the season will be decisive in crowning the world’s best player.
