The 2025 Ballon d’Or Race: A New Era of Competition
The Ballon d’Or, often regarded as the pinnacle of individual achievement in global football, celebrates the best player in the world across the entire previous season. Each year, the ceremony not only honors superstars but also creates legends, and the 2025 edition promises to be no different. As the event approaches on September 22 in Paris, anticipation is building like never before. Unlike recent years, where the top contenders were heavily dominated by a few names, this year’s list of potential winners is filled with players who many believe deserve the golden ball.
This unprecedented competition has sparked intense debates among fans worldwide, each eager to share their arguments for who should claim the prestigious award. The excitement surrounding the 2025 race is unparalleled, marking a significant shift from the past two decades, where the award was largely decided between two all-time greats.
Since 2008, the Ballon d’Or has been dominated by a select few, with the conversation often revolving around comparing these legends year after year. However, this year’s field is diverse, featuring six legitimate contenders: Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, and Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid. This variety presents a unique challenge for voters, as they must weigh various aspects of each player’s performance.
Why Raphinha Should Win the 2025 Ballon d’Or
Amidst this competitive landscape, Raphinha stands out with a clean resume that makes him a strong candidate for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. His 2024/25 season was nothing short of remarkable. He led Barcelona to a domestic treble, winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de Espana. Additionally, the team reached the Champions League semifinals, showcasing their resilience despite a high-risk style of play.
In terms of individual performance, Raphinha was a standout in the attacking third. With 18 goals and nine assists in La Liga, he ranked third in goal contributions behind Mbappe and Robert Lewandowski. His impact extended to the Champions League, where he tied Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for most goal contributions in a single campaign. Raphinha’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure are evident in his impressive stats, including being in the 91st percentile or better in several key metrics such as shots, non-penalty expected goals, and expected assists.
Raphinha’s production was particularly notable given his role in a high-octane attack. Despite facing challenges, he consistently delivered at a superstar level throughout the season. His contributions were not limited to club play; he also played a vital role in Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers, scoring four goals and providing an assist in seven matches.
Why Others Should Not Win the Ballon d’Or
While Raphinha’s case is compelling, other candidates have their own strengths and weaknesses. Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappe had excellent domestic seasons but lacked overall team achievements, especially in Europe. Vitinha, though a crucial part of PSG’s midfield, faced challenges in standing out against other stars. Lamine Yamal, despite his talent, showed inconsistencies, particularly during a mid-season slump.
Ousmane Dembele, while having a stellar season with 35 goals and 16 assists, faces scrutiny due to his performance in the French league, which many consider less competitive. Additionally, his inconsistent participation in the first half of the season and lack of impact in key finals raise questions about his candidacy.
Despite these challenges, Raphinha’s consistent performance, trophy wins, and standout moments in both club and international play make him a strong contender. While he may not be the most recognized name, his achievements speak volumes, and his ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout the season sets him apart.
Conclusion
As the 2025 Ballon d’Or race unfolds, it remains wide open, with each contender bringing unique strengths and weaknesses to the table. Raphinha’s comprehensive performance, consistent excellence, and ability to deliver in critical moments position him as a deserving winner. However, the true beauty of this year’s race lies in its unpredictability, ensuring that the final decision will be one of the most exciting in recent memory.