Ballon d’Or 2025: Cole Palmer surpasses Dembélé in list that resonates on the web
Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has emerged at the top of a viral social media ranking for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, surpassing Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembélé. The list, which circulated widely this Thursday, has sparked heated debate among football fans just weeks before the official award ceremony.
The ranking, shared by thousands online, places Palmer first, followed by Dembélé and PSG teammate Vitinha. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah comes in fourth, Achraf Hakimi fifth, Barcelona’s Raphinha sixth, and PSG’s Nuno Mendes seventh. The Ballon d’Or, presented by France Football, will officially crown the world’s best player on September 22 in Paris.
Fan Reactions and Controversy
The unexpected placing has drawn mixed reactions. Many fans highlight Palmer’s successful year, in which he led Chelsea to victory in both the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup defeating PSG in the final. Others argue Dembélé’s superior achievements, including a Champions League triumph and a domestic treble with PSG, make him the rightful frontrunner.
“The French control the Ballon d’Or vote, and Dembélé is certain to win,” wrote one user, suggesting national bias could play a role. Another lamented the absence of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in the top seven, calling it “just wrong.”
Season Stats: Palmer vs. Dembélé
Palmer’s 2024–25 season included 18 goals and 14 assists in 52 matches, alongside his two international club titles. Dembélé, meanwhile, delivered a prolific campaign with 35 goals and 16 assists in 53 appearances, collecting the Coupe de France, French Super Cup, Ligue 1, and the UEFA Champions League.
While the online list is unofficial, its viral spread underscores the anticipation and controversy surrounding this year’s race for football’s most prestigious individual honor.
