Even after falling short in the Club World Cup final, Paris Saint-Germain’s grip on the 2025 Ballon d’Or race remains firm, with multiple key players from the French side still commanding top spots on the global rankings.
Ousmane Dembele, the heartbeat of PSG’s Champions League success, holds tight to the number one spot, with several of his teammates also making strong cases for the golden prize. Their performances throughout the season—from Ligue 1 to Europe and global tournaments—have cemented PSG as this year’s most influential force in football.
1. Ousmane Dembele (PSG)
Despite fading in the Club World Cup final against Chelsea, Dembele’s overall campaign has been world-class. He lit up the Champions League with decisive goals at Anfield and the Emirates, capped off with two assists in the final. His big-game contributions still make him the favorite for the Ballon d’Or.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Barcelona’s teenage sensation delivered when it mattered most, especially in the Champions League semifinals. At just 17, his maturity and creativity already rival the sport’s elite, pushing him near the top of the shortlist.
3. Vitinha (PSG)
The midfield engine behind PSG’s treble-winning campaign, Vitinha was a calm and consistent presence throughout. His control, distribution, and game intelligence earned him plaudits across Europe.
4. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Once overlooked, Raphinha bounced back to lead Barcelona’s attack in their domestic treble run. His turnaround was remarkable and timely.
5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
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Salah returned to his best this season, powering Liverpool to a league title. However, Champions League and domestic cup failures kept him from climbing higher on the list.
6. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
While Mbappe produced magical moments, including a hat-trick against Manchester City, Madrid’s early Champions League exit and lack of trophies dented his campaign.
7. Desire Doue (PSG)
PSG’s breakout teenager was one of the revelations of the season. From assisting in the Coupe de France final to winning Young Player of the Tournament at the Club World Cup, Doue is already proving himself on the biggest stages.
8. Achraf Hakimi (PSG)
One of the most dynamic full-backs in the world, Hakimi’s attacking runs and defensive resilience were crucial to PSG’s European run. His Club World Cup performances reinforced his elite status.
9. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG/Napoli)
Though not a headline-grabber in stats, Kvara was integral in PSG’s and Napoli’s title pursuits. His flair and movement created space and chances throughout the season.
10. Nuno Mendes (PSG)
The left-back stepped up in vital moments for both PSG and Portugal. His defensive sharpness and attacking threat, especially in the Champions League, boosted his Ballon d’Or profile.
11. Pedri (Barcelona)
Back to full fitness, Pedri played a vital role in Barcelona’s midfield success. His influence went far beyond statistics, dictating tempo and creating rhythm.
12. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Kane finally added silverware to his name this season. While his goal tally was impressive, Bayern’s shortcomings in Europe affected his positioning.
13. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Palmer saved his best for the final stretch of the season. His display against PSG in the Club World Cup final confirmed his evolution into a big-match player.
14. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
Revitalized under Hansi Flick, Lewandowski led Barcelona’s attack with experience and precision, helping secure a domestic treble.
15. Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)
Donnarumma’s clutch performances, especially in shootouts during the Champions League, were vital to PSG’s success. As the season’s standout goalkeeper, his contribution can’t be overstated.
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16. Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP)
A goal machine in Portugal, Gyokeres had a breakout season that included a memorable Champions League hat-trick against Manchester City.
17. João Neves (PSG)
Neves brought energy and steel to PSG’s midfield. His red card in the Club World Cup final was unfortunate, but his overall impact this season remains strong.
18. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)
Started the season on fire but faded in the latter stages. Real Madrid’s lack of success weighed heavily on his ranking.
19. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Olise justified his €60 million fee with flair and creativity. A standout debut year that saw him become a central figure at Bayern.
20. Bradley Barcola (PSG)
One of PSG’s most promising young talents. Though benched in key Champions League ties, his contributions throughout the season—especially domestically—show he’s a star in the making.
With 9 of the top 20 players coming from PSG, it’s clear the club’s talent pool is not only dominating Europe but also shaping the Ballon d’Or narrative. From seasoned stars like Dembele and Donnarumma to rising gems like Doue and Barcola, PSG is not just chasing trophies—they’re defining football’s future.
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