Barcelona and Spanish midfield sensation Gavi has expressed unwavering confidence in his teammate Lamine Yamal, stating that even if the talented forward doesn’t secure the Ballon d’Or 2025, he is destined to win numerous Ballon d’Or trophies in the years to come. The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the Ballon d’Or 2025 winner, scheduled for September, continues to intensify. Among the prominent names being mentioned as favorites for the world’s most prestigious football award include Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, Vitinha, Pedri, Mohamed Salah, Raphinha, and Ousmane Dembele. Yamal, who is only 18 years old, delivered a phenomenal performance for FC Barcelona during the last season. Under the tactical guidance of Hansi Flick, the young prodigy played a vital role in helping the Catalan giants clinch both the LaLiga championship and the Copa del Rey title — a domestic double that significantly boosted his Ballon d’Or credentials. In an exclusive interview with Diario AS, Gavi opened up about Yamal’s Ballon d’Or prospects. He shared his admiration for the forward’s rapid development and impressive form. “I genuinely hope he wins it. But even if he doesn’t take it home this year, it’s important to remember he’s just 18 — still extremely young in the football world,” Gavi told Diario AS. “To be considered among the frontrunners for such a prestigious award at this stage of his career is already remarkable. I feel really proud of everything he’s achieving with us at the club.” “He’s a phenomenal footballer — constantly improving. Every training session with him feels special. He always pushes his limits and stays focused.” “With the mindset and dedication he’s showing, even if the Ballon d’Or 2025 slips through his fingers, I have no doubt he’ll secure many of them in the future,” Gavi concluded. Yamal’s name has become synonymous with explosive talent and rising stardom, especially after his consistent standout performances in top competitions. The fact that he’s already in the elite discussion for the Ballon d’Or at such a tender age underscores his extraordinary potential.
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has expressed his belief that Ousmane Dembélé deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or, following PSG’s emphatic 5–0 win against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday. Speaking during a post-match interview with TNT Sports, Enrique praised Dembélé’s outstanding contribution despite the winger not registering a goal during the final. The French international’s performance, particularly his defensive efforts, drew high commendation from the manager. “If I could award the Ballon d’Or, it would go to Ousmane Dembélé,” Enrique said. “His defensive work tonight was simply extraordinary — that alone justifies a Ballon d’Or recognition. “This is true leadership. Goals, titles, commitment, pressing — the full package. “He’s my Ballon d’Or without a doubt.” Though Dembélé didn’t find the net in the final match, Enrique emphasized his all-around impact, including his work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to lead from the front. Dembélé is now regarded as one of the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or, joining the likes of Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in the conversation for football’s most prestigious individual award. During PSG’s phenomenal season — where they achieved a historic Treble — Dembélé contributed significantly, scoring 33 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions.
