The Ballon dor is football’s most prestigious individual award. It honors the very best player of the year. In 2025, three stars are in the spotlight: Raphinha, Ousmane Dembélé, and Lamine Yamal. All have had outstanding seasons. But our view is clear: Raphinha should win the Ballon dor, with Dembélé in second place and Yamal in third.
What Is the Ballon dor?
The Ballon dor is an annual award given to the best football player worldwide. Journalists, coaches, and captains vote based on a player’s achievements over the season. The winner usually shows high-level consistency, big contributions, and team success.
Who Are the Contenders?
Raphinha — The Most Impactful
Raphinha is a Brazilian winger playing for Barcelona. He delivered outstanding numbers in La Liga during the 2024–25 season. He scored 18 goals and provided 9 assists in 36 league appearances. That makes a total of 27 goal contributions in La Liga alone. Raphinha was also a key figure in helping Barcelona win a domestic treble and reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. He played with heart, skill, and a winning mentality, especially in big games.
Ousmane Dembélé — The Flashy Second Place
Dembélé had an impressive season playing for PSG. In Ligue 1, he scored 21 goals in just 29 appearances. His pace, dribbling, and attacking threat were clear throughout the season. However, he was affected by injuries and a few dips in form. These issues kept him from being consistent for the full year. Still, his goal record is strong, and he deserves the second spot.
Lamine Yamal — The Young Star in Third
Yamal is only 17 years old but already looks like a future superstar. He played for Barcelona and had a stunning season. He scored 17 goals and provided 25 assists across 53 matches in all competitions. That makes 42 direct goal involvements. Yamal also became the youngest player to score in several major games and won top youth awards like the Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy. Even though he’s young, he delivered like a top professional.
Why Raphinha Should Win the Ballon dor
1. Consistency and Numbers
Raphinha was consistent across the full season. He scored and assisted in many important games. His 27 goal contributions in La Liga made a huge impact. His numbers stayed strong in both league and Europe.
2. Success Across Competitions
He played a big role in Barcelona winning a treble. He helped the team win La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup. He also helped them reach the Champions League semi-finals. His influence in all these competitions shows his top-level quality.
3. Skill and Work Rate
Raphinha brings flair and technique, but also works hard for the team. Unlike Dembélé, who relies on speed and moments of brilliance, Raphinha adds more value through his smart decision-making and teamwork. That balance is important when choosing a Ballon dor winner.
Why Dembélé Deserves Second Place
Dembélé had a strong season in France. Scoring 21 goals in 29 games is impressive. He was dangerous in front of goal and helped PSG dominate Ligue 1. But he missed a few games due to fitness problems and sometimes looked off-form. That stops him from being the top candidate, but his goal tally gives him a solid second place.
Why Yamal Is Third, But Still Incredible
Yamal’s season was historic for a 17-year-old. Scoring 17 goals and providing 25 assists in one season is rare at any age. He broke multiple records and helped Barcelona win major trophies. He played like a mature, experienced player even though he’s still a teenager. However, because of his age and still-developing experience, he should be placed third this year. But this is just the beginning for him.
FAQs
Q: Who votes for the Ballon dor?
A: Journalists, coaches, and national team captains vote based on performances.
Q: Has Raphinha ever been nominated before?
A: This is his best season yet. He is now in serious Ballon dor discussions for the first time.
Q: Can wingers win the Ballon dor?
A: Yes. Legends like Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho were also wingers and won it.
Q: What makes Raphinha different from Dembélé and Yamal?
A: Raphinha combined consistent goal scoring, leadership, and helped his team win big trophies. That’s why he leads.
Final Thoughts
The Ballon dor is not only about numbers. It’s about impact, leadership, and consistent quality throughout the season. Raphinha delivered all of that. He scored, assisted, and led Barcelona to trophies. His hard work and skill made the difference.
Dembélé had a strong year, but lacked the consistency. Yamal amazed everyone, but needs more time and experience. That’s why Raphinha should win the Ballon dor in 2025, ahead of Dembélé and Yamal.
Also read: Barcelona Stun Levante with Dramatic 3‑2 Comeback
