Barcelona’s Koundé names Lamine Yamal and Dembélé as the main favorites for the Ballon d’Or
Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has named teammates Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé among the leading contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, praising both for their standout seasons at club and international level.
Speaking to the press during France’s training camp ahead of the qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland, Koundé said the pair’s consistency and silverware make them frontrunners for football’s most prestigious individual award.
“They both deserve it. They had an extraordinary season, with titles to show for it. Lamine is leading us despite his age, and Ousmane is playing the best football of his career, with statistics to prove it. May the best man win,” Koundé stated.
Praise for Mbappé’s captaincy
Koundé also spoke about national team teammate Kylian Mbappé, defending the Real Madrid striker’s role as captain of France.
“I’ve always thought Mbappé does this naturally. He’s present with teammates, always willing to talk and share responsibilities. A player like him inspires respect. It’s natural for him to wear the armband,” Koundé explained.
When is the Ballon d’Or ceremony?
The Ballon d’Or 2025 gala will take place on September 22 in Paris, with Yamal and Dembélé among the favorites. Yamal was decisive in Barcelona’s domestic triumphs, while Dembélé spearheaded PSG’s Champions League win.
Their numbers underline their credentials:
- Lamine Yamal: 55 matches, 18 goals, 25 assists
- Ousmane Dembélé: 53 matches, 35 goals, 16 assists
Other big names are also in the running, including Brazilians Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior, as well as Harry Kane, Mohamed Salah, and Vitinha, who could spring a surprise.
