The Ballon d'Or 2025 power rankings are fluid and can change rapidly based on individual performances and team successes. However, based on recent reports and projections as of late May 2025, before the Uefa Champions League final, here's a consolidated look at the top contenders:
Top Contenders (Highly Ranked by Multiple Sources):
1. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain): Many sources, including Sportsdunia, Managing Barca, and The Independent, have him as a leading candidate or even the favorite. His sensational 2024/2025 season with Barcelona, including a reported domestic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup), and his young age making him a record-breaker, put him squarely in contention. He's reportedly accumulated impressive stats (goals, assists, key passes) and delivered in big games.
2. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain & France): He's often cited as a strong contender, even leading some rankings (e.g., Goal.com, Sports Illustrated). His strong season with PSG, including guiding them deep into the Champions League (potentially to the final), is a key factor. He's reportedly had a career-defining season, showcasing his blistering pace, dazzling footwork, and clinical finishing.
3. Raphinha (Barcelona & Brazil): Another Barcelona winger making a strong case, often ranked alongside Yamal. He's reported to have had a sensational 2024/2025 season with impressive goal and assist numbers for Barcelona.
4. Pedri (Barcelona & Spain): A key player for Barcelona and Spanish midfield. With Barcelona's domestic success can't but pick out Pedri at center of it all. He is the powerhouse and wheel on which Barcelona ran this season.
5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool & Egypt): Consistently ranked in the top contenders, Salah has reportedly had an outstanding individual season for Liverpool, leading the Premier League in combined goals and assists, and potentially winning the league title with them.
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6. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid & France): Despite a tough start to his Real Madrid career, he's reportedly found his scoring touch and is a strong contender. His move to Real Madrid and potential success there will always keep him in the conversation.
7. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan & Argentina): His chances are often tied to Inter Milan's success in Serie A and potentially the Champions League.
8. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona & Poland): Still a prolific goalscorer for Barcelona, especially with domestic treble wins.
9. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England): A strong performer for Real Madrid, his individual brilliance keeps him in the discussion.
10. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England): Despite a lack of team trophies with Bayern this season, his individual goal-scoring record remains elite.
11. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid & Brazil): Continues to be a highly influential player for Real Madrid.
12. Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid & Argentina): His first season at Atletico Madrid has been successful, potentially putting him in contention.
13. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen & Germany): An outstanding midfielder whose performances for Bayer Leverkusen have been noted.
14. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich & Germany): Another young talent showing incredible versatility and inventiveness.
15. Declan Rice (Arsenal & England): Arsenal's most reliable midfielder this season, displaying such magic touches this season and scoring some incredible goals.
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Key Factors Influencing Rankings:
- Individual Performance: Goals, assists, decisive moments, and overall impact on games.
- Team Trophies: Winning major domestic leagues, cups, and especially the Champions League, significantly boosts a player's chances. International tournaments (like Euros or World Cup) also play a crucial role.
- Consistency: Sustaining a high level of performance throughout the entire season.
- Narrative/Storyline: A compelling story, such as a young breakout star (like Lamine Yamal) or a long-overdue recognition, can sway voters.
It's important to remember that these rankings are speculative and will evolve as the 2024/2025 football season concludes and major international tournaments unfold. The Ballon d'Or award ceremony is typically held in October.
