Ballon d’Or 2025: Raphinha names 6 top contenders – Salah, Mbappé, Yamal, and more
Barcelona star Raphinha has revealed his top six picks for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, highlighting players who have dominated the season. As the race for football’s most prestigious individual award heats up, Barcelona winger Raphinha has weighed in on the leading candidates for the 2025 Ballon d'Or.
The Brazilian international singled out Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Barcelona teammates Pedri and Lamine Yamal, and Real Madrid’s attacking trio of Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Kylian Mbappé as the standout performers this campaign.
When is the Ballon d'Or 2025? Venue, Date, Time and How to Watch the Awards
The 69th Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 20:00 local time at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. The event will crown the best male and female players, along with other awards like Best Young Player and Best Goalkeeper.
Who is Favored to Win the Ballon d'Or 2025?
According to X's Grok AI, Barcelona's Raphinha is currently the frontrunner, followed by PSG's Ousmane Dembélé and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. However, Liverpool's Mohamed Salah and Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé remain strong contenders.
Ballon d'Or 2025 Top Contenders (Raphinha's Picks)
In a recent interview (via Barca Universal), Raphinha said:
"Players who are having a great season for the Ballon d'Or? Lamine [Yamal], Salah, Mbappé… Vinícius’ numbers may be lower than last season, but for me, he’s always there. Two underrated players who could have been included in the awards or at least considered are Pedri and Rodrygo."
Raphinha himself has been in sensational form, contributing 31 goals and 25 assists in 52 appearances for Barcelona this season, while helping the club secure the Supercopa de España and Copa del Rey.
Ballon d'Or 2025 Predictions (Grok AI’s Top 10)
Here’s the AI-powered ranking of the top contenders:
Raphinha (Barcelona) – 12 UCL goals, key in Barça’s treble chase.
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) – 33 goals, PSG’s UCL standout.
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) – 15 goals, 20 assists at just 17.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – 33 goals, 23 assists.
Pedri (Barcelona) – Midfield maestro in title charge.
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) – 36 goals but trophyless?
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Dominant in midfield.
Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan) – Inter’s UCL hero.
Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) – 35 goals but no major trophy.
Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona) – 40 goals at age 36.
Who Was Snubbed from the Ballon d'Or 2025 List?
Despite strong seasons, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were left out of Grok AI’s top 10, sparking debate among fans.
How is the Ballon d'Or Winner Decided?
The award is voted on by international journalists, national team coaches, and captains. Performance in club competitions, international tournaments, and individual stats are key factors.
Ballon d'Or 2025 Ceremony Schedule
- 6:30 PM: Red Carpet Arrivals
- 7:00 PM: Cocktail Reception
- 8:00 PM: Ceremony Begins
- 10:00 PM: Awards Concluded
- 1:00 AM: Event Ends
Final Thoughts: Who Will Win?
With Barcelona, PSG, and Premier League stars leading the race, this year’s Ballon d'Or is one of the most unpredictable in years. Will Raphinha clinch it, or will Salah, Mbappé, or Yamal make history?
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