As the 2024–25 football season powers into its final stretch, the race for the prestigious Ballon d’Or is heating up. While goals and assists make headlines, it’s often the trophies and defining moments that swing votes in a player’s favor.
From breakout stars to seasoned veterans, here are the top 10 contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or as of March 30. This list weighs current form, team success, and potential for season-defining performances. Let’s dive in.
10. Pedri (Barcelona)
Pedri might not boast eye-popping stats—5 goals and 7 assists—but anyone watching him play sees his immense value. Now free from the injuries that once held him back, the 22-year-old Spaniard has emerged as the heartbeat of Barcelona’s midfield under Hansi Flick.
With poise, precision, and endless energy, Pedri’s influence is undeniable. A deep Champions League run could be the catalyst that pushes him into serious contention, especially if his performances outshine the stat sheet.
9. Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid)
After a €95 million switch from Manchester City, Julian Alvarez has had a mixed start at Atletico Madrid. Despite only 11 goals in La Liga, his overall tally stands at 23 across all competitions—proof of a striker settling into a new system.
One moment still haunts him: a mishit penalty in the shootout loss to Real Madrid. But Alvarez has time to make amends. Trophies like the Copa del Rey or even a surprise league push could help him climb the rankings.
8. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
At 36, Robert Lewandowski is proving age is just a number. After being left off last year’s shortlist, he’s roared back with 35 goals this season, thriving once again under former Bayern coach Hansi Flick.
Barcelona’s Supercopa win is already in the bag, and if the Catalan giants collect more silverware, Lewandowski could finally get the recognition he’s long deserved.
7. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)
Vinicius Jr. entered the season with something to prove after a surprise second-place Ballon d’Or finish in 2024. With 19 goals and 10 assists, he delivered electric performances early on.
However, both his form and Real Madrid’s momentum have dipped in 2025. The Brazilian still has time to recapture his magic, especially with La Liga and Champions League trophies still in reach.
6. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Though Harry Kane is still searching for his first major trophy, his individual brilliance continues. With 32 goals for Bayern Munich, he’s leading the line and the Bundesliga race.
Kane's deep-lying playmaking and goal-scoring prowess could finally pay off if Bayern deliver in Europe. If they win the Champions League, he becomes a serious candidate.
5. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
After a slow start in Madrid, Kylian Mbappé is hitting full stride. His 31 goals include a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City—an emphatic reminder of his elite status.
Real’s dual pursuit of La Liga and Champions League titles sets the perfect stage for Mbappé. With his eyes on the Ballon d’Or for years, 2025 could finally be his time.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
At 32, Mohamed Salah is enjoying one of his most prolific seasons, tallying 34 goals and 22 assists. Under new boss Arne Slot, he’s been the driving force behind Liverpool’s Premier League title charge.
Yet, a Champions League exit to PSG and a quiet Carabao Cup final have dented his momentum. To stay in the hunt, Salah needs a strong finish—and maybe more than just a league title.
3. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Raphinha is quietly putting together a sensational season. With 27 goals and 19 assists, he’s been a force on the right wing for Barcelona, combining relentless work rate with cutting-edge creativity.
Often overshadowed by teammates like Lewandowski and Yamal, Raphinha’s numbers speak for themselves. If Barca secure the treble, he could emerge as a surprise favorite for the Ballon d’Or.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
At just 17, Lamine Yamal is rewriting the rules. With 13 goals and 16 assists, he’s become Barcelona’s breakout star, dazzling fans with his fearless dribbling and sublime vision.
Fresh off winning the 2024 Kopa Trophy, Yamal is already in the Ballon d’Or conversation. If he keeps shining and Barca keep winning, he could become the youngest ever to lift the Golden Ball.
1. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
Long considered a player of raw potential, Ousmane Dembélé is finally delivering on the biggest stage. With 30 goals this season, the PSG winger has been central to their Ligue 1 dominance and Champions League surge.
His stunning goal at Anfield to knock out Liverpool may be one of the defining moments of the campaign. If Dembélé maintains this form through the spring, he could complete a remarkable comeback story with football’s top individual honor.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ballon d’Or race is still wide open. From veterans making one last push to young stars redefining what's possible, the next few months will be decisive. With domestic titles and European glory on the line, every goal, assist, and moment of brilliance will count.
Stay tuned—this one’s far from over.