- The latest Ballon d’or power rankings see a Bayern Munich star drop out of the Top 10 as the race catches fire
- The Ousmane Dembele vs. Lamine Yamal contest heats up as both players started the new season on a brighter note
- Two African stars feature prominently in the Top 10 list, though their chances of scooping the big prize remain minute
The Ballon d’Or race is reaching fever pitch as the countdown begins to the grand reveal on September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.
As of August 21, 2025, several standout performers have emerged as frontrunners, their remarkable contributions fueling debates among fans and pundits alike.

Source: Getty Images
At the forefront of the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings is Ousmane Dembélé, whose instrumental role in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic treble-winning campaign, including a coveted Champions League title, cannot be overstated.
According to Transfermarkt, Dembele racked up 35 goals and provided 16 assists in 35 matches in the 2024/25 season and has recorded 2 goals and 2 assists already in the new campaign.
His knack for delivering in high-pressure knockout games, such as his decisive goals at Anfield and the Emirates, has endeared him to both PSG supporters and neutral fans.
Not far behind is the prodigious talent Lamine Yamal from Barcelona. At just 18 years old, Yamal has displayed an astonishing level of maturity and skill on both La Liga and Champions League stages, offering 18 goals and 25 assists for his team during last season.
His electric pace, vision, and composure under pressure have propelled Barcelona’s resurgence, making him one of the most exciting young prospects and a strong contender in the Ballon d’Or race.
The Spanish youngster is also in the running for the Kopa Trophy, an accolade he currently holds after winning it last year.

Source: Getty Images
Who will win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
According to GiveMeSport, French forward of Paris Saint-Germain Ousmane Dembele is the hottest favourite to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or as he leads the power rankings as of August 9, 2025.
1. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
3. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
4. Raphinha (Barcelona)
5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
6. Desire Doue (Paris Saint-Germain)
7. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain)
8. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
9. Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain)
10. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
Why Ousmane Dembélé deserves the 2025 Ballon d’Or
YEN.com.gh recently highlighted three compelling reasons why Ousmane Dembélé stands out as a top contender for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, following the official shortlist announcement on Thursday, August 7.
The French winger, who previously starred for Borussia Dortmund and FC Barcelona, delivered a phenomenal 2024/25 season with Paris Saint-Germain, helping the club secure an impressive four trophies. With standout performances across domestic and European competitions, Dembélé’s influence on PSG’s success has made him a leading figure in this year’s Ballon d’Or race.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh