Top contenders for the prestigious award

As the date approaches, **two standout players have emerged as frontrunners** for the coveted title: **Ousmane Dembélé** and **Lamine Yamal**. With an impressive season under his belt, **Dembélé is seen as the leading candidate** to succeed last year’s winner, Spanish midfielder Rodri.

Dembélé’s stellar achievements

The French forward has had an extraordinary season, clinching major trophies with PSG and sweeping individual accolades. **Dembélé was named the best player in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League**, and he was the top scorer in the French championship.

**Désiré Doué**, his teammate, has no doubt about who deserves the award, stating, “**Ousmane is an exceptional player, and with the season he’s had, he deserves the Ballon d’Or**,” as featured in the PSG film Twenty Twenty Five.

ousmane dembele leads race for 2025 ballon dor after stellar.jpg

Dembélé awarded Onze d’Or

In addition to his numerous accolades, Dembélé was also recently honored as the **best player of the season by Onze Mondial**. This individual recognition is seen as a precursor to the potential Ballon d’Or win on September 22.

Expressing his gratitude, **Dembélé shared**, “**I’m proud; it shows that all the hard work throughout the season, and over the years, is recognized. It touches me deeply that my sacrifices and performances are acknowledged,**” he remarked to the magazine.