- Ghana’s Ballon d’Or juror has shed light on why Ousmane Dembélé edged Lamine Yamal to claim the prestigious award
- He maintained that the outcome reflected the criteria agreed upon by the voters, despite acknowledging debates over some of the names
- The final decision was made by a panel of 100 journalists, each representing one of FIFA’s top-ranked nations
The 2025 Ballon d’Or stirred pockets of debate worldwide, but for Ghana’s voting representative, Michael Oti-Adjei, the outcome was never in doubt.
The renowned journalist, who carries the nation’s sole vote, explained why he believed Ousmane Dembele fully deserved the crown ahead of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Source: Getty Images
Ghana’s Ballon d’Or decision maker reveals why Dembele won
In a video shared on his X account, Oti-Adjei broke down his reasoning, pointing to Dembele’s defining role in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic season.
According to UEFA.com, the 28-year-old was crowned ahead of Lamine Yamal and PSG teammate Vitinha, capping off a remarkable campaign.
He played a pivotal role in securing a domestic double, finishing the 2024/25 season with an outstanding tally of 37 goals and 16 assists, per Transfermarkt.
“Some years, who wins the Ballon d’Or is as clear as any, and I think the role that Dembele played in PSG’s unbelievable season and the overall dominance of the Ballon d’Or says everything,” he began.
The broadcaster, who works with Media General, highlighted the Frenchman’s outstanding numbers and influence, saying:
“In the end, his goals, his assists, his influence in that historic Champions League win and the domestic treble, and everything, were key factors in him walking away with it.
“It was always going to be him, I thought ahead of Lamine Yamal. It doesn’t mean that Yamal did not have a good season. I think Yamal is one of those players who will win that award, but 2025 may have come a bit too early for him.”
Source: Getty Images
Beyond the winner, Oti-Adjei also weighed in on the rest of the rankings. He acknowledged debates around certain names but insisted the selections reflected the voters’ criteria.
“The overall top 10 raises questions, but like I always say, an award is an award, and the people who vote have to make their decisions; they have to make based on a certain set of criteria, key among them trophies, one individual’s contributions to that particular season, how they carry themselves and a number of factors.”
The Ghanaian journalist defended Mohamed Salah’s fourth-place finish, even though some argued Raphinha deserved better.
“Raphinha featuring heavily, I always thought that Salah would finish a bit up and so did I think in terms of Hakimi, but overall PSG is dominant of the list. Another piece of evidence of just how good they’ve been, and I think Dembele is fully deserving of that award.”
Although Oti-Adjei stood firm on his views, he stopped short of disclosing his ballot.
“I would reveal who I voted for a bit later, as required by the rules of the engagement, but I thought tonight that the best person won the award.”
Watch Oti-Adjei’s explainer:
For years, Oti-Adjei has been entrusted with casting Ghana’s vote, a role that underscores both his reputation and the country’s place in football’s global conversation.
His insights continue to carry weight, reminding fans at home and abroad that Ghana’s voice is firmly present at football’s grandest stage.
Dembele emotional after winning Ballon d’Or
In a related report, YEN.com.gh noted that Ousmane Dembélé was visibly emotional after edging out Lamine Yamal to clinch the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The 28-year-old forward showed his gratitude by dedicating the prestigious award to the entire PSG family.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
