Ballon d’Or 2025 Finalists: Only Three African Stars Make Top 30 List

In the recently released final list of the Ballon d’Or 2025 nominees, only three African footballers managed to secure a spot among the top 30 contenders for the prestigious global award. These African talents—Mohamed Salah of Egypt, Achraf Hakimi of Morocco, and Serhou Guirassy of Guinea—earned their places after delivering stellar performances throughout the season for their respective clubs.

Mohamed Salah’s Remarkable Year at Liverpool

Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian forward and Liverpool’s talisman, had yet another outstanding season in England. The prolific attacker played a pivotal role in guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title, asserting his dominance once more in one of Europe’s most competitive football leagues. In addition to winning the title, Salah also emerged as the top scorer in the English Premier League—a testament to his consistency and goal-scoring prowess over the past year.

Achraf Hakimi’s Triple Triumph with PSG

Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi was a key figure for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) during a historic season that saw the French giants clinch a treble. Hakimi’s defensive mastery and attacking support from the flanks were instrumental as PSG lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy, alongside triumphs in both the French Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. His performances across these top-tier competitions firmly established his claim among the best in the world.

Serhou Guirassy’s European Brilliance with Dortmund

Serhou Guirassy, representing Guinea, made a significant impact for Borussia Dortmund across both domestic and international competitions. Most notably, Guirassy contributed meaningfully to Dortmund’s campaigns in the Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. His goal against Real Madrid in the Champions League knockout stage was a standout moment that underscored his value to the team and his growing reputation in world football.

Global Recognition and Final Nomination Announcement

As reported earlier by LMSINT MEDIA, the final 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d’Or 2025 was officially announced by France Football, the organizers behind the award. The selection process involved contributions from renowned football journalists across the globe, who cast their votes based on player performance, individual brilliance, impact in key games, and overall contribution to their teams.