Ballon d’Or 2025: Updated Rankings After Mohamed Salah Exits Champions League
Liverpool’s 2024/2025 Champions League journey came to a heartbreaking end after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defeated them on penalties on March 11.
Gianluigi Donnarumma was the hero of the night, making crucial saves throughout the match and stopping two penalties in the shootout.
Ousmane Dembele canceled out Liverpool’s narrow lead from the first leg with a goal in the 12th minute, pushing the game into extra time and, eventually, penalties.
Updated 2025 Ballon d’Or Rankings
The 2025 Ballon d’Or race is heating up as the Champions League moves into its decisive rounds. Liverpool’s early exit means Mohamed Salah, previously the frontrunner, now faces a tough challenge in his quest to become the first African winner since 1995.
As the season nears its climax, Gossipa2z.com ranks the top candidates for the prestigious award if voting were held today.
6. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona/Spain)
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is making history with 12 goals and 17 assists. His stunning goal against Benfica reminded everyone of his immense talent. However, he needs to deliver in the Champions League knockout rounds and La Liga title race to climb higher in the rankings.
5. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich/England)
Harry Kane has been a consistent Ballon d’Or nominee, but he lacks a major trophy. This season could change that, with Bayern Munich leading the Bundesliga and advancing to the Champions League quarter-finals. With 32 goals and 11 assists, Kane is proving to be a key player for Bayern’s success.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool/Egypt)
Salah was the favorite before Liverpool’s elimination, but their Champions League exit is a major setback. He remains a top contender thanks to his Premier League performances, where he continues to score regularly. Winning the league could still keep him in the podium race.
3. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid/France)
Mbappe’s Champions League hat trick against Manchester City proved his elite status. With 28 goals and 4 assists, he is leading Real Madrid’s charge in La Liga and Europe. However, if Real Madrid exits the Champions League against Atletico Madrid on March 12, his chances will take a major hit.
2. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona/Poland)
At 36, Lewandowski is still one of Europe’s most lethal strikers, boasting 34 goals and 3 assists. He plays a crucial role in Barcelona’s title chase in both La Liga and the Champions League. However, he needs to be more decisive in the knockout stages to boost his Ballon d’Or hopes.
1. Raphinha (Barcelona/Brazil)
Raphinha is having a phenomenal season and is now the new Ballon d’Or frontrunner following Liverpool’s exit. With 27 goals and 19 assists, he has been instrumental in Barcelona’s success. His standout performances, including three goals against Benfica, make him a top contender for the award.
Other Notable Mentions:
- Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid): A slow start but could peak in the knockout rounds, just like last season.
- Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) & Pedri (Barcelona): Consistently impressive performances.
With the season reaching its final stretch, who do you think will win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Ballon d’Or 2025: Updated Rankings After Mohamed Salah Exits Champions League
