The 2024-25 season is entering its final stretch, with three months of competition left to determine the winners of each tournament and the top contenders for the Golden Ball. Several players are in the running, but some have emerged as top favorites.
The Top 10 Contenders
According to the Power Brand Ranking, the top 10 candidates for the Golden Ball are led by outstanding performers from top-tier teams. Each player has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to their craft, making the competition fierce.
10. Julián Álvarez (Atlético de Madrid)
Julián Álvarez has become a key player for Atleti, scoring 20 goals in 39 games across all competitions. His impressive performance has earned him a spot among the top contenders for the Golden Ball. Álvarez’s ability to score crucial goals and participate in goal sequences makes him a vital player for his team.
9. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Harry Kane is another strong contender, with 29 goals and 10 assists in 32 official matches at the club level, plus three goals with the English national team. His consistency and goal-scoring ability make him a top candidate, but he needs to lead his team to significant victories to strengthen his chances.
8. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Lamine Yamal’s exceptional talent and high offensive participation, with 28 goals and assists in 34 games, keep him in the running. Although his performance has declined slightly, he remains a top contender, especially if Barcelona wins key titles like the League, Cup, or Champions League.
7. Vinicius (Real Madrid)
Vinicius started the season strongly but has experienced a dip in form. Despite this, he remains a crucial player for Real Madrid, and his ability to score and create goals makes him a contender. If he regains his top form and helps his team win significant titles, he could still be in the running for the Golden Ball.
6. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
Robert Lewandowski is another Barcelona player in contention, with 33 goals and 3 assists in 36 games. As the top scorer in the League and Champions League, he has a strong chance of winning the Golden Ball if Barcelona secures important titles and he maintains his goal-scoring form.
5. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Jude Bellingham has improved significantly, becoming a key player for Real Madrid. With 22 goal participations in 35 official matches, he is a strong contender. His ability to score crucial goals and contribute to his team’s success makes him a top candidate, especially if Real Madrid wins significant titles.
4. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
Ousmane Dembélé has emerged as a top contender after a glowing start to 2025. With 16 goals in all competitions and a strong performance in the Champions League, he is a player to watch. If PSG wins key titles and Dembélé continues to score crucial goals, he could be a dark horse in the race for the Golden Ball.
3. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Raphinha has been Barcelona’s most important player this season, with 42 goal participations in 38 games. His consistency and ability to score and create goals make him a strong contender. If Barcelona wins significant titles and Raphinha maintains his form, he could be a top candidate for the Golden Ball.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Kylian Mbappé is determined to win the Golden Ball this year. With 17 goals and a strong performance in the Champions League, he is a top contender. If Real Madrid wins key titles and Mbappé continues to score crucial goals, he could finally claim the award.1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah is the current favorite to win the Golden Ball, with an outstanding season that includes 30 goals and 22 assists in 39 games. If Liverpool wins the Premier League and makes a deep run in the Champions League, Salah’s chances of winning the award will be very high. He is on track to have a historic season, and his consistent performance makes him the top contender for the Golden Ball.
