Ronaldinho is one of the most skilful footballers to ever play the sport. He made his talent count too, winning the World Cup, La Liga, Champions League and more across his glittering career.
His best years were probably spent with Barcelona, and in 2005 – having won those two aforementioned club trophies – he was named the best player on the planet. Indeed, the Brazilian scooped the Ballon d'Or that year, making him the last Barca star to win the award before Lionel Messi's era of dominance.
As a past winner, it's always interesting to learn Ronaldinho's thoughts on the race for the 2025 Ballon d'Or prize. Barcelona fans will be excited to learn that their club icon feels it will be returning to the Catalan club this year.
Ronaldinho Tips 2025 Ballon d'Or to End Up in Barcelona
Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski and Pedri are all candidates
There are a few Barca men currently in the running. Both Robert Lewandowski and Pedri have had exceptional seasons, helping the club secure a Copa del Rey trophy, while a La Liga title also appears to be on the horizon. However, the most likely candidates are Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.
With Barcelona out of the Champions League, finalists Ousmane Dembele and Lautaro Martinez could yet claim the prize. If not, it seems likely to end up in the hands of either Raphinha or Yamal.
As a Brazilian legend, some may expect Ronaldinho to favour Raphinha on such matters. However, the 45-year-old has instead backed Yamal as the 2025 Ballon d'Or winner. Speaking to L’Équipe (via Daily Sports), he explained:
“He’s a precocious talent. I love watching him because he’s inventive. If he continues to work hard, he’ll become a huge star. The next Ballon d’Or winner, for sure."
Although Yamal is so young, few would complain if he were to scoop the award. Still only 17, he has regularly delivered the goods for Barcelona this season, scoring 16 goals and picking up 24 assists, for a total of 40 goal contributions in 52 games this term.
It's not just about his goal, however, with the 17-year-old evoking the spirit of Lionel Messi with his eye-catching performances in the Champions League and La Liga this term.
EPL_Ballon d'Or 2025 Power Rankings Related
Ballon d'Or 2025 Power Rankings
The race for the 2025 Ballon d'Or award is heating up with Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele among the front-runners.
Saved big praise for PSG star Dembele
Ronaldinho also gave his thoughts on Kylian Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid with the ambition of winning the Ballon d'Or and the Champions League – two of the big honours he is yet to claim in his glittering career so far.
The Brazilian expects more glory to come for the Frenchman, saying: “He’s at a historic club that should help him grow and win what he’s missing.”
Ronaldinho, who used to play for Paris Saint-Germain as well, reserved some huge praise for ex-Barca winger Ousmane Dembele. The PSG star has had a fantastic season, firing the French club to a Champions League final.
Acknowledging his fine form, Ronaldinho said: “He’s got a Brazilian flair. He dribbles, creates, provokes — he’s unpredictable and scores often. He’s finding his role.”
Stats via Transfermarkt - correct as of 14/05/25