The race for the 2025 Ballon d'Or is heating up. Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years old, is emerging as a clear favorite over Ousmane Dembélé.
Both players have had outstanding seasons. Recent recognitions and statements suggest that Yamal might be pulling ahead in this race.
Germany votes Lamine Yamal
Recently, 216 Bundesliga players voted for Lamine Yamal as the best forward of the European season, giving him an impressive 53.7% of the votes. This recognition reflects the impact of the young talent on European soccer.
In second place is "another," with 13.55% of the votes. Behind them, Ousmane Dembélé (6.9%), Kylian Mbappé (6%), Raphinha (4.6%), Wirtz (4.2%), Salah (3.7%), Haaland (2.8%), Kane and Vinicius (2.3%).
It's clear that in the race for the Ballon d'Or, in the first German round, with votes from the main actors of the show, Lamine Yamal is three lengths ahead of Dembélé.
For Hansi Flick Lamine "is a genius"
Hansi Flick has praised Yamal, describing him as a "genius" and highlighting his maturity and technical skills. He has also emphasized the importance of keeping discipline and hard work to stay at the top in the future.
Meanwhile, Ousmane Dembélé has been decisive in winning the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Trophée des Champions. His play has been key for PSG.
He's the only one who can challenge Lamine Yamal, although the Barcelona player has earned the admiration of the entire world throughout the season with his play.
Despite Dembélé's team achievements, many experts argue that the Ballon d'Or should reward the most outstanding individual player.
Even so, Lamine Yamal has been essential in winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España. His performance at Euro 2024 with the Spanish national team was outstanding.
Luis Fernández demands the Ballon d'Or for Lamine Yamal
Former PSG coach Luis Fernández has expressed his opinion: "Yamal deserves the Ballon d'Or for his impact throughout the season." In addition, figures like Pep Guardiola have praised Yamal, highlighting that he's in the perfect environment to develop and build a great career.
The final decision on the Ballon d'Or will be announced in September during the gala at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Meanwhile, the soccer community continues to debate who deserves the prestigious award more: Barcelona's young prodigy or PSG's experienced forward.