Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembele is tipped as the frontrunner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or ahead of tonight’s ceremony in Paris, while England’s Lionesses dominate the women’s shortlist following their Euro 2025 triumph.
Dembele Favourite for Men’s Award
The French winger enjoyed a remarkable campaign last season, registering 43 goal contributions across Ligue 1 and the Champions League as PSG sealed a historic treble. His teammate Kylian Mbappe publicly backed him, saying he would “deliver the trophy to his house” if it were his decision.
Dembele faces stiff competition from Barcelona’s 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who guided the Catalans to a league and cup double with 18 goals and 25 assists. Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah also carries Premier League hopes after finishing as top scorer and assist provider in England’s top flight.
British Representation on Shortlist
Five players from the UK are in contention for the men’s Ballon d’Or. England’s Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane are joined by Scotland’s Scott McTominay, who inspired Napoli to the Serie A title and was named the league’s best player. McTominay became the first Scot nominated since Ally McCoist in 1987.
Lionesses Dominate Women’s Ballon d’Or
On the women’s side, Euro winners Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo lead the English nominees, joined by Chelsea duo Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton. Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati, who won the Euro 2025 Player of the Tournament award, is eyeing her third consecutive Ballon d’Or.
Chelsea’s Hampton is also a contender for the Yashin Award for best goalkeeper, while young forward Michelle Agyemang is nominated for the Kopa Trophy after being named Euro 2025 Young Player of the Tournament.
Coaches and Special Awards
England manager Sarina Wiegman, who steered the Lionesses to another European title, is among the favourites for the Johan Cruyff Trophy for best women’s coach. PSG boss Luis Enrique, who led his side to a treble, is expected to secure the men’s coaching honour.
The ceremony, taking place at Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, will also present awards for best young player, goalkeeper, top scorer, coach, and the Socrates humanitarian prize.
Ceremony Details
The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony begins at 12:30 am IST on Tuesday (9:00 pm CET, Monday) and will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network with streaming available on SonyLIV. Awards will be handed out in multiple categories, including best male and female player, young player, goalkeeper, coach, and the humanitarian Socrates award.
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