With Rodri sidelined, Ousmane Dembélé is now the front-runner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. As the European season nears its end, Champions League exits and standout performances continue to shift the power rankings.
- Rodri out: The 2024 winner is out for the season with injury.
- Dembélé in control: PSG’s winger is top of the power rankings after dazzling in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.
- Yamal, Raphinha fading: Their chances dip after Barcelona’s Champions League exit.
- Risers: Dumfries, Vitinha, and Hakimi surged following strong UCL showings.
- Decliners: Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. dip after Real Madrid’s trophy hopes take a hit.
- Wildcard: Viktor Gyökeres' astonishing 61-goal season could force his name onto the shortlist.
Unlike past years defined by World Cups or Euros, 2025’s Ballon d’Or race is purely club-driven, giving players outside traditional powerhouses a shot. PSG's dominance and deep Champions League run have elevated several of their stars, Mendes, Hakimi, and Vitinha, while Premier League and La Liga icons are struggling to keep pace. With the Club World Cup still to come, final impressions may yet be decisive.
Dembélé may be in pole position, but a big performance in a major final or a jaw-dropping goal tally from Gyökeres could shake things up. It’s still wide open.
