The nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or have been officially revealed, spotlighting the top football talents of the season vying for the prestigious titles awarded on September 22, 2025, in Paris. This article provides a detailed overview of the key nominees, winning favorites, and insights into the intense competition both in the men’s and women’s categories.
Men’s Ballon d’Or Nominees and Winning Favourites
This year, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) notably dominates the men’s nominations with nine players from their treble-winning squad, including standout stars Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi. Dembélé, a key figure in PSG’s historic Champions League triumph, recorded 35 goals with 16 assists across all competitions, making him a strong favorite. Additionally, young Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, compared to Lionel Messi for his dazzling performances at just 19 years old, is considered one of the favorites, having contributed 18 goals and 25 assists.
Other high-profile nominees include:
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England), a midfield maestro pivotal in Real’s title wins.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City/Norway), known for his lethal scoring ability with 34 goals.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool/Egypt), Premier League Player of the Season with 34 goals and 23 assists.
- Scott McTominay (Napoli/Scotland), Serie A’s MVP after leading Napoli to the championship.
Several players from other top-tier clubs feature prominently, including Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona), Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid), and Harry Kane (Bayern), highlighting the broad competition.
| Player | Club | Goals (Approx) | Assists (Approx) | Notable Achievements | Favorites |
| Ousmane Dembélé | PSG | 35 | 16 | Champions League Winner | ⭐ Highly Favoured |
| Lamine Yamal | Barcelona | 18 | 25 | Young Star, Kopa Trophy Contender | ⭐ Highly Favoured |
| Jude Bellingham | Real Madrid | Key Player in Club Success | ⭐ Favoured | ||
| Erling Haaland | Manchester City | 34 | 5 | Prolific Goal Scorer | ⭐ Favoured |
| Mohamed Salah | Liverpool | 34 | 23 | Premier League Player of the Season | ⭐ Favoured |
| Scott McTominay | Napoli | Serie A MVP | ⭐ Emerging |
Women’s Ballon d’Or Nominees and Winning Favourites
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí from Barcelona is the heavy favorite for an unprecedented third consecutive Ballon d’Or. Despite recent team losses in major finals, her consistent excellence keeps her at the forefront. Other key candidates include:
- Alexia Putellas (Barcelona), aiming for a third win as well.
- Sandy Baltimore (Chelsea)
- Lucy Bronze (Chelsea)
- Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal)
- Chloe Kelly (Manchester City/Arsenal)
The competition highlights an exciting diversity, with multiple players from Europe’s top clubs and national teams contending.
| Player | Club | Role | Achievements | Favourites Status |
| Aitana Bonmatí | Barcelona | Midfielder | Two-time defending champion | ⭐ Highly Favoured |
| Alexia Putellas | Barcelona | Midfielder | Potential three-time winner | ⭐ Favoured |
| Sandy Baltimore | Chelsea | Forward | Emerging Talent | ⭐ Contender |
| Lucy Bronze | Chelsea | Defender | Experienced Leader | ⭐ Contender |
| Chloe Kelly | Man City/Arsenal | Forward | Key Player | ⭐ Contender |
Infographic Summary
- PSG’s Influence: 9 men’s nominees, led by Dembélé, strongly boosting their chances.
- Youth Impact: Lamine Yamal, only 19, adds youthful brilliance to the mix.
- Top Scorers: Haaland, Salah, and Lewandowski are among the most prolific strikers nominated.
- Women’s Dominance: Barcelona leads women’s nominations with Bonmatí and Putellas at the helm.
- Elite Competition: Multiple leagues represented including Ligue 1, La Liga, Premier League, Bundesliga, and Serie A.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ballon d’Or nominations showcase a blend of experienced legends, prolific scorers, and emerging young stars, with PSG and Barcelona heavily represented. Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal emerge as the strongest favorites in the men’s category, while Aitana Bonmatí continues to dominate the women’s race. The upcoming ceremony promises thrilling announcements reflecting one of the most competitive years in football history.