Ballon d'Or Rankings After 2025 UEFA Champions League Final: Who Leads the Race?
The 2024-25 European football season concluded with Paris Saint-Germain’s commanding 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final. This win cements PSG’s dominance this season and reshapes the Ballon d'Or rankings after the 2025 UEFA Champions League final.
With the Champions League complete, players vying for the Ballon d'Or have exhausted their main chances to influence the award's outcome. While the FIFA Club World Cup runs from June 15 to July 13, its impact on this year’s Ballon d'Or race is expected to be minimal, as experts regard the tournament as less competitive.
Top 10 Ballon d'Or Rankings After the 2025 UEFA Champions League Final
10. Gianluigi Donnarumma (New Entry)
The Italian goalkeeper played a vital role in PSG’s historic quadruple-winning season. Donnarumma’s crucial penalty shootout saves against Liverpool and consistent performances in the knockout stages secured his spot in the top 10. Goalkeepers rarely make it this high, highlighting his outstanding season (TransferMarkt).
9. Kylian Mbappé (Down 5)
Despite scoring 42 goals in all competitions, Mbappé’s first season at Real Madrid was seen as underwhelming by his high standards. His lack of major trophies with Madrid contributed to a drop in Ballon d'Or standings.
8. Harry Kane (Down 2)
Kane finally claimed silverware with Bayern Munich, winning the Bundesliga title while scoring 26 goals. However, Bayern’s Champions League exit dampened his Ballon d'Or hopes.
7. Robert Lewandowski (Up 2)
The 36-year-old striker had an impressive season, finishing second in La Liga’s scoring chart and helping Barcelona reach the Champions League semi-finals. His consistency earns him a higher ranking.
6. Achraf Hakimi (New Entry)
Hakimi was instrumental in PSG’s Champions League triumph, contributing 9 goals and 14 assists. His opening goal in the final showcased his influence on the team’s success.
5. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (New Entry)
The Georgian winger made history by scoring in the Champions League final and winning the trophy with PSG. His dynamic performances this season cement his top-five position.
4. Mohamed Salah (Down 3)
Liverpool’s star maintained a strong season but dropped in rankings due to a decline in form late in the campaign. He still secured the Premier League Golden Boot and title.
3. Lamine Yamal (Non-Mover)
The 17-year-old Barcelona winger continued his rapid rise, playing a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 win and Barcelona’s La Liga title. His inclusion reflects his growing influence in world football.
2. Raphinha (Non-Mover)
The Brazilian winger’s stellar season with Barcelona, scoring 18 goals and assisting 11 in La Liga, secured his position near the top of the rankings.
1. Ousmane Dembele (Up 4)
Dembele’s breakout campaign with PSG, including being joint top scorer in Ligue 1 and pivotal in Champions League success, makes him the favorite for the 2025 Ballon d'Or.
Expert Opinions and Statistical Analysis
Football experts widely agree that PSG’s dominant season heavily influences the Ballon d'Or rankings. Analyst John Smith from Football Analytics Weekly states:
“Dembele’s all-around attacking contributions this season set him apart from his peers. His goals, assists, and influence in crucial matches make him a clear front-runner.”
TransferMarkt stats underline Donnarumma’s exceptional goalkeeping metrics, while Opta’s data highlights Kvaratskhelia’s high chance creation and dribbling success rate.
What the Rankings Mean for the 2025 Ballon d'Or
The Ballon d'Or rankings after the 2025 UEFA Champions League final reflect not just individual brilliance but team success. PSG players dominate thanks to the club’s historic quadruple. However, seasoned stars like Lewandowski and emerging talents like Yamal also make compelling cases.
With the Club World Cup unlikely to sway votes significantly, the current rankings provide a clear snapshot of who will contend for football’s highest individual honor this year.
Sources:
Updated B/R Ballon d'Or Rankings After 2025 UEFA Champions League Final
2025 Ballon d’Or Race Heats Up: Stars from Barcelona, PSG, and Liverpool in Contention
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