2025 Ballon d’Or Nominees: Unveiling the Contenders, Announcement Schedule, and Predictions
Today, August 7th, 2025, marks a momentous day in the footballing calendar as the nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or awards are officially announced. The anticipation is palpable as fans and pundits alike eagerly await to discover who will be in contention to succeed Rodri Hernández in the men’s category and if Aitana Bonmatí can secure a historic third consecutive title in the women’s division. This in-depth article from Gaming News provides a comprehensive overview of the announcement schedule, key contenders, and expert predictions for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The Road to the Théâtre du Châtelet: Understanding the Selection Criteria
The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually to the best male and female football players in the world, is a testament to individual brilliance and team success. The judging period for the 2025 awards encompasses the season from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025, aligning with the European football season. This timeframe captures not only league and cup performances but also significant international tournaments like the Men’s Club World Cup, Women’s Euro, and Women’s Copa América.
A panel of esteemed journalists from around the world casts their votes based on the following criteria:
Individual and Collective Performance: A player’s contributions to both their club and national team are scrutinized, factoring in goals, assists, defensive contributions, and overall impact on the game.
Fair Play: Upholding the spirit of the game is paramount. Players are judged on their sportsmanship and ethical conduct on and off the field.
Overall Assessment of the Player’s Career: Longevity, consistency, and the player’s overall contribution to the sport are taken into consideration. This is less about past achievements and more about the long-term impact during the voting period.
Announcement Schedule: Tune In for Thrilling Reveals
The announcement of the nominees will be staggered throughout the day, building suspense and excitement. Set your alarms and prepare to witness the unveiling of the footballing elite at the following times (all times in Central European Summer Time - CEST, deduct one hour for British Summer Time - BST):
12:30 CEST (11:30 BST): Women’s Kopa Trophy (Best Young Player Under 21) - 5 Nominees
12:45 CEST (11:45 BST): Men’s Kopa Trophy (Best Young Player Under 21) - 10 Nominees
13:00 CEST (12:00 BST): Women’s Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper) - 5 Nominees
13:15 CEST (12:15 BST): Men’s Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper) - 10 Nominees
13:30 CEST (12:30 BST): Women’s Cruyff Trophy (Best Coach) - 5 Nominees
13:45 CEST (12:45 BST): Men’s Cruyff Trophy (Best Coach) - 5 Nominees
14:00 CEST (13:00 BST): Women’s Club of the Year - 5 Nominees
14:15 CEST (13:15 BST): Men’s Club of the Year - 5 Nominees
15:00 CEST (14:00 BST): Women’s Ballon d’Or - 30 Nominees
15:15 CEST (14:15 BST): Men’s Ballon d’Or - 30 Nominees
Men’s Ballon d’Or: The Battle for Supremacy
With Rodri Hernández unfortunately sidelined due to a season-long injury, the race for the Men’s Ballon d’Or is wide open, presenting a thrilling contest among a host of world-class players. Here are some of the leading contenders:
The Rising Stars
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): The young Spanish sensation has taken the footballing world by storm with his dazzling dribbling, exceptional vision, and goal-scoring prowess. His performances for Barcelona have been nothing short of electrifying, making him a strong contender for the Kopa Trophy and a potential nominee for the main Ballon d’Or award. Yamal’s potential is limitless, and he embodies the future of football. His contributions to Barcelona’s league campaign were pivotal, often providing the spark needed to unlock stubborn defenses.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea): Transferred to Chelsea with pressure to instantly perform, but Cole managed to exceed all expectations by his performance throughout the 2024/2025 season. Cole Palmer, boosted by his recent Club World Cup success over the powerful PSG, has undoubtedly made a strong case for his inclusion.
Established Superstars
Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain): Now fully fit and firing on all cylinders, Dembélé has been instrumental in PSG’s success. His pace, trickery, and eye for goal make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Dembélé’s consistency throughout the season has been a significant factor in his resurgence as one of the world’s top wingers. He has delivered several match-winning performances, proving his importance to the Parisian club.
Raphinha (Barcelona): The Brazilian winger has continued to impress with his direct running, creativity, and ability to score crucial goals. Raphinha’s work rate and commitment to the team make him a valuable asset for Barcelona. His link-up play with other attacking players has been a key feature of Barcelona’s attacking strategy. Raphinha’s contribution in big games has further solidified his status as a top contender.
Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain): A midfield maestro with exceptional passing range and vision, Vitinha has been the engine room of PSG’s midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates makes him a vital cog in the Parisian machine. Vitinha’s defensive contributions have also been noteworthy, making him a complete midfielder.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Despite Liverpool’s somewhat inconsistent season, Salah has remained a prolific goalscorer and a constant threat in the final third. His individual brilliance and ability to produce moments of magic keep him firmly in contention for the Ballon d’Or. Salah’s goal-scoring record speaks for itself, and he continues to defy expectations with his incredible performances.
Women’s Ballon d’Or: A Reign Under Threat?
Aitana Bonmatí’s dominance in the women’s game is undeniable, but her quest for a third consecutive Ballon d’Or faces stiff competition this year. Barcelona’s Champions League exit and Spain’s underwhelming performance at the UEFA Euro could open the door for other contenders.
Challengers to the Throne
Chloe Kelly (Arsenal): The dynamic English winger has been a driving force for Arsenal, terrorizing defenses with her pace, power, and clinical finishing. Kelly’s performances in the Women’s Super League and the Champions League have been exceptional, making her a strong contender for the award. Her winning goal in the Euro 2022 final still resonates with many voters.
Alessia Russo (Arsenal): A clinical striker with exceptional movement and finishing ability, Russo has been consistently finding the back of the net for Arsenal. Her aerial prowess and ability to hold up the ball make her a nightmare for defenders. Russo’s contributions to Arsenal’s attacking play have been invaluable.
Mariona Caldentey (Barcelona): Often overlooked but consistently brilliant, Caldentey has been a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. Her creativity, vision, and ability to score important goals make her a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or. Caldentey’s versatility allows her to play in multiple positions, making her a valuable asset for any team.
Other Potential Nominees
While the aforementioned players are considered frontrunners, several other players could make the shortlist:
Alexandra Popp (Wolfsburg): A veteran striker with a proven track record, Popp continues to be a goal-scoring machine for Wolfsburg and Germany.
Sam Kerr (Chelsea): The Australian superstar has been consistently finding the back of the net for Chelsea, showcasing her incredible goal-scoring ability.
Lena Oberdorf (Wolfsburg): A midfield powerhouse with exceptional tackling ability and work rate, Oberdorf is a key player for both Wolfsburg and Germany.
The Cruyff Trophy: Recognizing Coaching Excellence
The Cruyff Trophy, awarded to the best coach in both men’s and women’s football, recognizes the tactical genius and leadership skills that guide teams to success.
Men’s Cruyff Trophy Contenders
Luis Enrique (Paris Saint-Germain): The Spanish tactician has transformed PSG into a dynamic and attacking force, implementing his possession-based philosophy with great success.
Pep Guardiola (Manchester City): The master tactician continues to push the boundaries of football, leading Manchester City to another successful season.
Xabi Alonso (Bayer Leverkusen): In just a short time, Alonso has turned Bayer Leverkusen into a force to be reckoned with.
Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid): The veteran Italian coach continues to add to his impressive trophy cabinet, guiding Real Madrid to yet another Champions League title.
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal): The young Spanish coach has transformed Arsenal into a formidable force, implementing his attractive and attacking style of play.
Women’s Cruyff Trophy Contenders
Emma Hayes (Chelsea): The legendary Chelsea manager continues to dominate the English game, leading her team to another league title.
Jonatan Giráldez (Barcelona): Giráldez’s tactical acumen has been instrumental in Barcelona’s continued success.
Sonia Bompastor (Lyon): Bompastor has guided Lyon back to the top of European football, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills.
Jonas Eidevall (Arsenal): Eidevall has transformed Arsenal into a dynamic and attacking force, challenging Chelsea’s dominance in the English game.
Bev Priestman (Canada): Priestman’s leadership has been key to Canada’s success on the international stage, including their Olympic gold medal win.
Club of the Year: Celebrating Team Success
The Club of the Year award recognizes the best performing clubs in both men’s and women’s football, celebrating their achievements on and off the field.
Men’s Club of the Year Contenders
Paris Saint-Germain: Their impressive league form, strong Champions League showing makes them a front runner.
Manchester City: The English giants continue to dominate the Premier League and compete for major European honors.
Real Madrid: The Spanish giants, perennial contenders in the Champions League.
Bayer Leverkusen: Xabi Alonso has been able to turn Bayer into a top club.
Inter Milan: The Italian champions have been a force to be reckoned with.
Women’s Club of the Year Contenders
Chelsea: They dominated women’s soccer for a few years now and have a strong team.
Barcelona: Barcelona is also a top side in European soccer.
Lyon: Lyon always have a strong squad with great players
Arsenal: Arsenal are one of the best in the League.
Wolfsburg: Wolfsburg is also a contender for Club of the Year.
Concluding Thoughts: The Stage is Set
As the clock ticks down to the announcement of the 2025 Ballon d’Or nominees, the excitement is reaching fever pitch. The anticipation surrounding who will be in contention for these prestigious awards is a testament to the captivating nature of football and the extraordinary talent that graces the beautiful game. This article from Gaming News has provided a comprehensive overview of the key contenders, announcement schedule, and predictions for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Stay tuned as we bring you live updates and analysis throughout the day, keeping you informed every step of the way. The ceremony will take place on September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.