The highly anticipated 2025 Ballon d’Or shortlist for the men’s category has been officially released, drawing global attention as it features thirty of the finest footballers whose performances over the past year have been nothing short of extraordinary. The announcement came on Thursday, stirring excitement among fans, analysts, and players alike, as the road to football’s most prestigious individual honour gets underway.
This year’s list is a powerful blend of proven superstars, consistent performers, and a new generation of breakout talents. Standing tall among the frontrunners are Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior, and Harry Kane. Each of these players has dominated headlines over the last twelve months with their goal-scoring exploits, leadership on the pitch, and their ability to rise in big moments for both club and country.
Jude Bellingham, who enjoyed a phenomenal season with Real Madrid, continues to be a symbol of maturity beyond his years. Kylian Mbappé’s electrifying pace and consistent output remain unmatched, while Erling Haaland’s goalscoring machine shows no signs of slowing down. Vinicius Junior has matured into a game-changer for Real Madrid and Brazil, and Harry Kane has broken new grounds in Germany after his move to Bayern Munich, impressing with goals and assists in the Bundesliga and Europe.
However, the list does not end with just the usual suspects. It also features established names like Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, who continues to deliver in the Premier League; Robert Lewandowski of Barcelona, whose sharpness in front of goal remains intact; and Virgil van Dijk, the Dutch defensive rock who led Liverpool’s backline with experience and composure.
In addition, the 2025 nominations reflect the rise of young talents who have carved their space at the highest level. Names such as Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation from Barcelona, Joao Neves from Benfica, and Cole Palmer, who made a statement in his breakthrough season with Chelsea, signal a bright future for global football.
The Ballon d’Or also paid attention to those who may not always be in the spotlight but have been integral to their teams. This includes players like Alexis Mac Allister, whose midfield mastery helped Liverpool navigate a transitional season; Désiré Doué, the Rennes youngster turning heads in Ligue 1; and Scott McTominay, whose impact for both Manchester United and the Scottish national team has earned him unexpected recognition.
Other names making the coveted list include Raphinha, Florian Wirtz, Declan Rice, Achraf Hakimi, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz, Denzel Dumfries, Serhou Guirassy, Viktor Gyökeres, Ousmane Dembélé, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Lautaro Martinez, Nuno Mendes, Michael Olise, Vitinha, and Vinicius Junior.
The Ballon d’Or, presented by France Football, is widely regarded as the most respected individual prize in the sport. It is not just about goals or trophies but rewards consistency, influence, and the ability to make a difference when it matters most. As always, the final decision will be based on votes cast by journalists from around the world, each evaluating the players based on their performances, achievements, and overall contribution to the beautiful game.
The grand ceremony where the winner will be crowned is expected to take place later this year, drawing celebrities, football icons, and media from every continent. Until then, the football world will continue to debate, predict, and celebrate those who have made the cut, as the countdown to the Ballon d’Or gala officially begins.
Below is the full list of the thirty nominees for the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or:
Jude Bellingham
Ousmane Dembélé
Gianluigi Donnarumma
Désiré Doué
Denzel Dumfries
Serhou Guirassy
Viktor Gyökeres
Erling Haaland
Achraf Hakimi
Harry Kane
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Robert Lewandowski
Alexis Mac Allister
Lautaro Martinez
Kylian Mbappé
Scott McTominay
Nuno Mendes
Joao Neves
Michael Olise
Cole Palmer
Pedri
Raphinha
Declan Rice
Fabian Ruiz
Mohamed Salah
Virgil van Dijk
Vinicius Junior
Vitinha
Florian Wirtz
Lamine Yamal
As the list continues to generate discussions across platforms, all eyes are now fixed on the eventual winner, who will join the elite circle of past legends that have held the golden ball. Whether it will be a familiar name or a new face, the 2025 Ballon d’Or promises to be one of the most competitive races in recent memory.
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