Follow usThe 30-man shortlist for the 2025 Ballon d’Or has officially been revealed, ahead of one of the most tightly contested races in recent history. With no clear favorite the award could go in any direction.
As expected, newly-crowned Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain dominate the shortlist. Among their standout nominees are Ousmane Dembélé—considered one of the frontrunners—as well as Desire Doue, Achraf Hakimi, Vitinha, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Nuno Mendes, Fabian Ruiz, and Joao Neves.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s 18-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal also makes the cut, and could become the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history. The current record is held by Brazilian legend Ronaldo, who captured the award at age 19 in 1997.
In a surprise addition, Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay has earned a place among the nominees after playing a pivotal role in Napoli’s unexpected Serie A title win.
The Premier League is well represented as usual, with six players making the shortlist: Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, and Erling Haaland.
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