The 2024-25 football season has come to a close, and the debate over who deserves the Ballon d'Or is heating up. Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembélé is the front-runner, but several other players have made compelling cases. Let's dive into the top contenders and their performances this season.

Ousmane Dembélé: The Front-Runner

Ousmane Dembélé has been instrumental in PSG's dominant season. With 21 goals and 6 assists in Ligue 1, and 8 goals and 6 assists in the Champions League, Dembélé's statistics are impressive. His transformation into a center forward has been pivotal in PSG's success, culminating in their Champions League victory.

Mohamed Salah: The Consistent Performer

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah has been a consistent force, amassing 54 combined goals and assists. Despite Liverpool's early exit from the Champions League, Salah's individual brilliance cannot be overlooked. His ability to perform in the highly competitive Premier League sets him apart.

Raphinha: The Underdog

Barcelona's Raphinha has emerged as a dark horse in the Ballon d'Or race. With 17 more goals than his teammate Lamine Yamal, Raphinha's contributions have been crucial for Barcelona. His defensive work rate and effectiveness in the high press add another dimension to his game.

Achraf Hakimi: The Defensive Maestro

PSG's Achraf Hakimi has redefined the role of a modern wingback. His attacking contributions are unparalleled among defenders, and his defensive responsibilities are handled with equal finesse. Hakimi's impact on PSG's treble-winning season is undeniable.

The Verdict

While Dembélé is the favorite, the Ballon d'Or race is far from one-dimensional. Salah's consistency, Raphinha's breakout season, and Hakimi's all-around brilliance make this one of the most competitive races in recent memory. Ultimately, the choice will depend on how the voters weigh individual brilliance against team success.

Enjoy the offseason, and stay tuned for more football analysis as we look ahead to the 2025-26 season.