As the season reaches its final stretch, the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or is heating up — and Ousmane Dembélé is emerging as the clear frontrunner. The French winger has enjoyed a spectacular year both individually and collectively, placing him at the top of many lists for the world’s most prestigious individual football award.

A Breakthrough Season

Under Luis Enrique, Dembélé has undergone a complete transformation. Repositioned as a false nine, he has exploded as a goal scorer without losing his trademark dribbling and creativity. So far this campaign, he has racked up 33 goals and 11 assists across all competitions.

His impact has been decisive in PSG's triumphs: winning Ligue 1, the French Super Cup, and reaching both the UEFA Champions League final and the Coupe de France final. He’s also the top goal scorer in the world in 2025, with 25 goals in the calendar year.

Context Plays in His Favor

While other contenders like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha have lost ground after Barcelona's exit from the Champions League, Dembélé has continued to shine. His consistency, influence in key matches, and emergence as PSG's new leader have solidified his place as the most dominant player in European football this season.

Moreover, with no major international tournaments this summer — aside from the Club World Cup — the club competitions (especially the Champions League and the domestic cup) will likely determine the Ballon d’Or outcome.

What’s Ahead for Dembélé

• May 24 : Coupe de France Final vs. Stade de Reims
• May 31 : Champions League Final vs. Inter Milan

If he secures the domestic treble and lifts the Champions League trophy, Dembélé’s case for the Ballon d’Or will be nearly undeniable.