8 Reasons Why Lamine Yamal Could Edge Out Ousmane Dembélé for the 2025 Ballon d'Or
- Neither Lamine Yamal nor Ousmane Dembele would be undeserving of the 2025 France Football Ballon d'Or
- The rivalry between Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé grows as both players are instrumental in Barcelona and PSG's triumphs
- At just 18, Lamine Yamal is on the verge of greatness, and he appears truly ready to dominate world football
The race for the Ballon d'Or this year is filled with several exciting candidates, but two names stand out: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona and Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain.
While both players have enjoyed exceptional seasons, the young and dynamic Yamal has shown remarkable consistency and brilliance, making a strong case for edging out Dembélé in this year’s prestigious award.
Source: Getty Images
Now, here are 8 reasons why Yamal’s rise in the world of football could see him lift the Ballon d'Or in 2025.
1. Yamal's impressive 2024/25 season
Lamine Yamal’s numbers this season have been nothing short of extraordinary. In 55 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions, the young winger netted 18 goals and provided 25 assists, according to Transfermarkt.
His attacking output has been critical to Barcelona's success, contributing directly to nearly 43 goals. For a teenager to be so productive on such a high stage is rare and sets him apart from other contenders.
Source: Getty Images
2. Yamal's major trophies won with Barcelona
Trophies often play a pivotal role in the Ballon d'Or selection, and Yamal has helped Barcelona win multiple silverware this season. According to Wikipedia, the Spanish giants clinched La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup in 2024/25.
Winning three major trophies at such a young age highlights his ability to perform on big occasions.
3. Yamal’s legacy in the making
At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal, who is reportedly dating an Argentine rapper, is already showing signs of becoming one of the most promising talents in world football.
While Ousmane Dembélé’s story is compelling in its own right, from being a rejected player at Barcelona to a treble winner with PSG, it is Yamal’s legacy in the making that is truly fascinating.
He has clinched numerous awards such as the Golden Boy in 2024 and the Laureus World Sports Award for Breakthrough of the Year in 2025.
4. Superior talent, flair, and dribbling skills
One of the key attributes that sets Yamal apart from Dembélé is his raw flair and artistry on the field. While Dembélé is known for his explosive speed and ability to take on defenders, Yamal possesses an added layer of creativity and vision.
His dribbling is smooth, and his ability to weave through defenders with ease is reminiscent of some of the greatest to ever play the game.
5. Lamine Yamal's consistency
Since breaking onto the scene, Yamal has been remarkably consistent. Unlike many young players who tend to experience peaks and troughs in form, Yamal has continued to improve since his debut.
Whether it's in the league or in cup competitions, Yamal has delivered when it mattered most. In 2024/25, he scored 9 goals in La Liga, 5 in the Champions League, 2 each in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup.
6. His ability to influence big games
When it comes to crucial matches, Yamal has demonstrated an impressive ability to rise to the occasion.
He scored a goal each against AS Monaco, Borrusia Dortmund, and Inter Milan during last season's Champions League. Domestically, Lamine Yamal racked up 3 goals against Real Madrid, and one versus Atletico Madrid.
7. Marketability and media attention
Football’s biggest stars are also those who captivate the world beyond the pitch. Yamal has become one of the most marketable, and if you like, controversial young players in the sport.
For example, his recent trip to Brazil and birthday celebration sparked widespread attention, turning him into a media favorite. He allegedly invited more than 200 guests to celebrate with him when he turned 18.
8.Yamal doing amazing things at 18
Another key factor boosting Yamal’s chances for the 2025 Ballon d'Or is that he has impressed fans at just 18, while Dembele is considerably older.
It’s rare for a teenage talent to be so exceptional, controlling crucial games and captivating fans every week, as the Spanish youngster did last season against the likes of Real Madrid and Inter Milan.
While Ousmane Dembélé’s story is undeniably inspiring, Lamine Yamal’s brilliance and consistency this season have propelled him into the conversation for the Ballon d'Or.
Ballon d'Or latest rankings
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on the latest 2025 Ballon d'Or power rankings ahead of the official shortlist announcement on Thursday, August 7.
The current standings sees Lamine Yamal rise highest while the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Mohamed Salah, and Raphinha drop places.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
