If you’re anything like me, you’ve been keeping one eye on the scorelines and another on the Ballon d’Or race all season. And now that we’re closing in on the ceremony, it’s time to ask the big question:
Who deserves the Ballon d’Or 2025?
I’ve been following football religiously for years, and this year’s race feels different. It’s not just about goals and assists. It’s about legacy, clutch moments, and emotions that stirred the footballing world.
So, let’s break down the top contenders — no robotic stat dumps, just real talk.
🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé – The Favourite (And Rightly So)
Mbappé has been unreal this season. His move to Real Madrid turned out to be a masterstroke — he didn’t just settle in, he took over.
From smashing goals in La Liga to leading France deep into EURO 2024, Mbappé has looked like the alpha in every big game. You can tell he’s matured. This isn’t the same kid who dazzled in 2018 — this version is hungry, calm, and fully in control.
Why he might win:
- Top scorer in the Champions League
- Crucial role in Real’s title-winning season
- Carried France in the Euros
Unless someone pulls off a miracle late in the year, it’s his Ballon d’Or to lose.
🇳🇴 Erling Haaland – The Goal Machine Keeps Scoring
Look, I get it — Haaland is a beast. 50+ goals in a season is nothing short of insane. But here’s my honest opinion: if we’re purely looking at impact, Mbappé edges him out.
That said, if the award was based only on numbers, Haaland wins it every year. His consistency, physical dominance, and ability to make defenders look like training cones? Terrifying.
Why he’s still a serious contender:
- Premier League top scorer (again)
- Carried City during tough stretches
- Most consistent striker in Europe
But will it be enough? I’m not sure the voters will be moved unless he wins something huge like the Champions League.
🇦🇷 Lionel Messi – One Last Dance?
I know, I know. You might say I’m being nostalgic. But hear me out…
Messi winning Ballon d’Or 2025 would be straight out of a movie script. At 38, he helped Argentina reach yet another Copa America final, and his performances in the MLS? Pure joy to watch.
No, it’s not Europe. No, he’s not scoring 40 goals. But this man moves the world with a single pass. If this is his last run, there’s a part of me — and probably a part of you too — that wants to see him lift it one last time.
Realistically? He’s an outsider. But don’t count him out. Sentiment matters.
⚠️ Dark Horses to Keep an Eye On
Here are a few names that could crash the party if the votes go their way:
- Jude Bellingham – He’s running Madrid’s midfield like a veteran at 22. Clutch goals, maturity beyond his years.
- Vinícius Júnior – Explosive, dynamic, and delivered when it mattered most. His Champions League final performance? Goosebumps.
- Lamine Yamal – Yes, he’s a teenager. But he’s already doing things seasoned pros can’t. EURO 2024 was his big stage — and he didn’t blink.
🎯 My Ballon d’Or 2025 Predictions
Alright, if I had to rank the top 5 as of now, here’s how I’d do it:
- Kylian Mbappé – Clear frontrunner. Big game player.
- Erling Haaland – Stats are too big to ignore.
- Jude Bellingham – If he ends the year strong, he might sneak in.
- Lionel Messi – For the story, the legacy, the tears.
- Vinícius Júnior – Electrified the Champions League.
And honestly? I wouldn’t be mad at any of them winning. That’s how good this year has been.
🗓️ When Is the Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony?
The official Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony will likely be held in October in Paris — the home of football elegance. If Mbappé wins it on home soil? I can already hear the French anthem blasting.
💭 Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Trophy
The Ballon d’Or isn’t just about the best player — it’s about the one who defined the year. The player who made fans sit up, scream, cry, and remember why they love the game.
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#BallonDor2025 #Mbappe2025 #HaalandvsMbappe #MessiLastBallonDor #FootballAwards2025 #RealMadrid2025 #UEFA2025