Mohamed Salah’s aspirations of winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or have taken a major blow following Liverpool’s Champions League elimination at the hands of PSG. With European success playing a crucial role in determining the award’s outcome, Salah’s chances have significantly diminished. Now, the Egyptian star must deliver an exceptional Premier League campaign while hoping his rivals struggle in the Champions League.
Paris Saint-Germain secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals after defeating Liverpool 4-1 on penalties. A 1-0 win in normal time leveled the tie at 1-1 on aggregate. Liverpool initially started strongly, with Salah nearly giving them the lead, but PSG capitalized on a defensive lapse, with Ousmane Dembélé scoring from a Bradley Barcola assist. Despite Liverpool’s pressure in the second half, PSG held firm, forcing extra time and ultimately prevailing in the penalty shootout. Salah converted his penalty, but misses from Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones proved costly.
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Updated Ballon d’Or Rankings
With Liverpool’s elimination, Salah’s chances of becoming the first African Ballon d’Or winner since 1995 have drastically reduced, as Champions League success often plays a pivotal role in the award’s decision. As the tournament heads into its decisive stages, new frontrunners are emerging in the race for the prestigious award.
1. Raphinha
Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, consistently contributing goals and assists. Despite being less heralded than some of his teammates, the Brazilian winger is playing the best football of his career and could emerge as a serious Ballon d’Or contender by season’s end.
2. Mohamed Salah
If this is Salah’s final season at Liverpool, he is determined to finish on top. Under new coach Arne Slot, ‘The Egyptian King’ has rediscovered his best form, leading Liverpool’s charge for the Premier League title. At 32, age is no barrier, and if he can guide Liverpool to silverware, he could still be in contention for the Ballon d’Or.
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3. Vinicius Junior
After finishing second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or race, Vinicius Junior has continued to impress. While his early 2025 form has been inconsistent, he remains a key player for Real Madrid. If he helps Madrid retain their La Liga and Champions League crowns, his chances of winning the award will increase.
4. Lamine Yamal
At just 17, Lamine Yamal is already one of the most exciting young talents in football. Though no player has ever won the Ballon d’Or before turning 21, Yamal’s performances for Barcelona suggest he could break that record if he maintains his current trajectory.
5. Robert Lewandowski
After being omitted from the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist, Lewandowski has rediscovered his goal-scoring form under Hansi Flick at Barcelona. At 36, his chances depend on Barcelona’s success in domestic and European competitions.
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6. Kylian Mbappe
After a rocky start at Real Madrid, Mbappe is now thriving. His hat-trick against Manchester City was a statement of intent, proving that he is ready to dominate on the biggest stage. If he maintains his form, he could finally secure the Ballon d’Or.
7. Harry Kane
Kane has been in superb form for Bayern Munich, proving to be a relentless goal scorer. If he leads Bayern to domestic and European glory, his all-around game could make him a serious Ballon d’Or contender.
8. Julian Alvarez
Despite early struggles at Atletico Madrid following a €95 million move, Alvarez has steadily improved. If he can help Atletico succeed in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League, he could be a dark horse in the Ballon d’Or race.
9. Jude Bellingham
Bellingham’s debut season at Real Madrid was phenomenal, but his goal-scoring has dipped in early 2025. However, if he delivers key performances in the latter stages of the season, another top-three Ballon d’Or finish is within reach.
10. Pedri
While Pedri’s statistics aren’t eye-catching, his influence on Barcelona has been undeniable. Injury-free for the first time in years, he is finally fulfilling his potential. If he shines in the Champions League, he could elevate himself into serious Ballon d’Or contention.