Power Rankings: Top 10 contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or

At the end of October, the football world was stunned by Manchester City midfielder Rodri's victory in the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting. Now, as the 2024/25 season reaches its halfway mark, Dailysports presents its rankings of the top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. This list will be updated monthly. Here is the current top 10:

10. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Had the Ballon d’Or been awarded based on performances in August and September, Haaland would have been a clear winner. However, Manchester City's form since November has been nothing short of disastrous. In his last 10 Premier League matches, Haaland has scored only three goals but still leads the scoring charts with 13.

In the Champions League, City has struggled as well, though Haaland has netted five goals, placing him fourth among scorers. If Guardiola's team doesn’t overcome its slump, Haaland’s chances for the Ballon d’Or will diminish. Still, everyone knows his potential, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him regain his prolific form.

For now, Haaland sits at 10th. To climb higher, he needs to step up and deliver in high-stakes matches.

9. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)

Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid seemed like a dream come true—for both him and the club. Yet, the reality has fallen short of expectations.

Mbappé has been more notable for memes about offsides and missed penalties than for his on-field brilliance. He has yet to score in big games against Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, Athletic Bilbao, or Atletico Madrid. Aside from two goals against Atalanta, his contributions have mainly come against weaker teams. So far, the 25-year-old has 12 goals in 22 games for Madrid.

However, there are signs that he’s building better chemistry with his teammates. If he can become Real’s leader over the course of the season, he may still emerge as a top Ballon d’Or contender.

8. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Arsenal started the season strongly but hit a rough patch in November, allowing Liverpool to pull six points ahead with a game in hand. Despite this, Bukayo Saka has been exceptional all season.

Saka is currently one of the top two assist leaders in Europe’s top five leagues. In 14 Premier League games, he has scored five goals and provided 10 assists. He’s also contributed four goals and two assists in five Champions League matches.

With such numbers, Saka is undoubtedly a contender for the sport's most prestigious individual award. However, Arsenal’s lack of significant trophies could hurt his chances.

7. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)

Harry Kane has been phenomenal. After seamlessly replacing Robert Lewandowski last season, the Englishman continues to deliver jaw-dropping performances.

In 19 matches this season, Kane has scored 20 goals and provided nine assists—an incredible contribution. However, to be a serious Ballon d’Or contender, Kane needs to win major trophies, something he’s yet to do in his career.

Bayern will likely win the Bundesliga, but that alone won’t suffice. A Champions League or Club World Cup triumph is essential, though these will be challenging given the competition.

6. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

Last season, Bellingham seemed destined for the Ballon d’Or as he carried Real Madrid’s attack almost single-handedly. However, a lackluster finish to the season and a disappointing Euro 2024 left him in third place.

The new season started poorly for the young Englishman, but he has since rebounded. In his last five La Liga matches, Bellingham has contributed five goals and three assists, scoring in each game. He also netted in a Champions League match against Atalanta. If he maintains this form, he’ll be back in the top three contenders. For now, he sits in sixth.

5. Raphinha (Barcelona)

Last summer, rumors swirled about Raphinha possibly leaving for Saudi Arabia or the Premier League. Now, Barcelona wouldn’t sell him for any price.

Under Hansi Flick, the 27-year-old Brazilian has been sensational, tallying 17 goals and 10 assists in 23 matches this season. Barcelona likely doesn’t regret missing out on Nico Williams, thanks to Raphinha’s brilliance.

Currently ranked fifth, Raphinha could climb higher if he sustains his form.

4. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)

In October, Vinícius celebrated his expected Ballon d’Or win with a party, only for the award to go to Rodri. While he struggled briefly afterward, he quickly regained his form.

With 13 goals and nine assists in 19 matches, Vinícius remains a star performer. Though a recent injury sidelined him, he scored immediately upon returning against Atalanta.

Vinícius’ ability to shine in big games makes him a perennial Ballon d’Or favorite, especially if Real reaches the Champions League or Club World Cup finals.

3. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

At just 17, Yamal is already one of the world’s best players, not just of his generation. His importance to Barcelona is undeniable; without him, the team faltered in November.

Yamal is tied with Saka as the top assist leader in Europe’s top five leagues, with 10 assists. He has also scored five goals in La Liga and added a goal and two assists in the Champions League.

With Barcelona leading La Liga and performing well in Europe, Yamal is a strong Ballon d’Or contender.

2. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)

The 2020 Ballon d’Or cancellation remains one of football’s greatest injustices, denying Lewandowski a well-deserved honor. This season, the 36-year-old seems determined to right that wrong.

With 23 goals in 22 matches, Lewandowski continues to defy age. Under Hansi Flick, his efficiency has been remarkable, and there’s little reason to expect a decline.

Still, one player currently outshines him…

1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Liverpool leads both the Premier League and Champions League, far exceeding expectations under new manager Arne Slot. However, none of this would be possible without Salah.

With 16 goals and 12 assists in 22 matches, Salah has been nothing short of extraordinary. He’s been vocal about wanting a new contract, and recent reports suggest an agreement has been reached.

If the Ballon d’Or were awarded today, Salah would undoubtedly be the favorite.