2025 Ballon d'Or Power Rankings: Yamal, Raphinha, Dembele and others compete for top prize

As the 2025 Ballon d’Or race heats up, standout performances across club and international competitions have shaped the latest power rankings.

Cole Palmer’s dazzling Club World Cup final display has thrust him into the conversation, joining the likes of Ousmane Dembele and Lamine Yamal.

Here’s a look at the top 10 contenders vying for the prestigious award.

Ousmane Dembele (PSG) - Led PSG’s treble with 35 goals and 16 assists, and remains in top spot despite a disappointing Club World Cup final.

Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) - At 17, he delivered an unbelievable season, with 21 goals and 26 assists, vital for Barcelona’s domestic treble.

Raphinha (Barcelona) - Barcelona’s clutch star with 39 goals and 25 assists, turning up in the biggest moments.

Vitinha (PSG) - Midfield engine, crucial for PSG’s treble and Portugal’s Nations League success.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) - Premier League’s top scorer with 29 goals and 18 assists, but European exits weaken his case.

Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid) - Scored 42 goals and won the European Golden Shoe, but fell short of team trophies.

Achraf Hakimi (PSG) - Elite right-back with 11 goals and 15 assists, key in PSG’s treble.

Nuno Mendes (PSG) - Dominant left-back, excelled in Champions League and Nations League, but struggled against Chelsea in the CWC final.

Pedri (Barcelona) - Midfield maestro, drove Barcelona’s treble with vision and 12 assists, overcoming injury concerns.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea) - Lit up the Club World Cup final, scoring twice and assisting in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over PSG, earning Player of the Match.