The Triumph: Dembélé at the Top
On 22 September 2025, Ousmane Dembélé was crowned winner of the Men’s Ballon d’Or at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, after a stellar 2024/25 season. His campaign included 35 goals and 16 assists in 53 appearances, and notably, playing a key role in PSG’s treble-winning season (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League title).
In his acceptance remarks, Dembélé was visibly emotional, dedicating the achievement to his family, fans, and club staff. He emphasized that this was not just an individual honor, but a recognition shared with those who supported him.
The Backlash: Many Question the Decision
While Dembélé’s credentials are indisputable, the decision has ignited heated debates across football communities. Critics argue that Lamine Yamal, with his young age and impressive performances, was overlooked unjustly.
Raphinha’s Fifth Place Rank Raises Eyebrows
One particular point of contention is Raphinha finishing only 5th in the Ballon d’Or rankings. Many felt his consistency and influence, especially for Barcelona, deserved a higher placement. The Brazilian’s position has drawn criticism from fans and fellow players alike, with some calling the ranking “a joke.”
Was It Fair to Snub Yamal?
Yamal’s campaign was exceptional: across all competitions, he registered 18 goals and around 21 assists, playing a pivotal role in Barcelona’s La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Super Cup successes. His performances, especially his impact in high-pressure matches, made him a front-runner for many observers.
But despite this, he placed second in the Ballon d’Or voting behind Dembélé. Some see this as a signal that the award may weigh heavily on trophies and team success. Not just individual brilliance. Barcelona’s president noted that PSG’s Champions League win likely had a major influence.
Lamine Yamal’s Father Speaks Out
In the aftermath, Mounir Nasraoui, Yamal’s father, did not stay silent. Launching a vocal critique of the outcome, calling it a “moral damage” against his son.
Stating: “I believe Lamine Yamal is the best player in the world by far … something very strange has happened here.” He denied using the word “theft,” but strongly implied the decision was unjust and pledged that “next year there will be a Spanish Ballon d’Or winner.”
These remarks triggered backlash in Spain and across the football world, with some condemning the tone and emotional language, while others sympathized with his viewpoint.
What Doesn’t Help: The Complexity of Ballon d’Or Voting
The Ballon d’Or is decided by a panel of journalists, coaches, and national team captains, each casting votes. The criteria balance individual stats, team achievements, and overall influence. Because team success is often a heavy factor, players from clubs winning major trophies (like the Champions League) tend to gain an edge.
In Dembélé’s case, PSG’s treble and his consistent output in critical matches likely swayed many votes. Meanwhile, Yamal’s achievements, though remarkable, came in competitions that some perceive as slightly less weighted.
Looking Ahead
This controversy may not die down soon. If anything, it places more pressure on Yamal to remain consistent and dominate in the seasons to come. His father’s bold public stance, combined with fans’ discontent over Raphinha’s ranking, ensures that the 2025 Ballon d’Or will be remembered not just for the winner — but for the debate it ignited.
For now, Ousmane Dembélé holds the trophy, but many believe Yamal’s time is coming.
