The race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or is heating up, and Mohamed Salah has plummeted to sixth place, according to the latest rankings by Goal.
Salah has long been a contender for the prestigious award, but after a few setbacks in the 2024-25 season, his path to the prize seems much more difficult.
Salah’s stunning form this season, which includes 34 goals and 22 assists, had him as one of the top favorites for the Ballon d’Or. He was the top contender to win the prestigious prize this time.
However, Liverpool’s shock elimination from the Champions League in the round of 16, along with his underwhelming performance in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle, has dimmed his chances.
Despite Liverpool’s dominant form in the Premier League, where they’re currently in the driver’s seat to secure the title, Salah’s hopes of becoming Africa’s first Ballon d’Or winner since 1985 have been complicated.
Although Salah’s brilliance remains undeniable, his drop in the rankings highlights the fierce competition this year. Raphinha from Barcelona has surged to the top.
The Brazilian winger has been in phenomenal form, with 31 goals and 19 assists. Alongside him, players like Kylian Mbappé, Lamin Yamal, and Harry Kane are making strong cases for the award.
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Mo Salah in sixth, who is ahead of him in Ballon d’Or race
While Salah’s hopes are still alive, other players are starting to steal the spotlight. Raphinha has arguably been the standout player for Barcelona, showing signs of his best football yet. His impressive numbers and Barcelona’s treble hopes make him a strong contender.
Kylian Mbappé is also in the mix. After a stunning hat trick against Manchester City, Mbappé took his game to the next level at Real Madrid.
Similarly, Lamin Yamal has emerged as a young talent to watch. At just 17, he’s already making a case for being the first teenager to win the Ballon d’Or.
Although there is still time and votes could still change, there is no doubt that Liverpool have taken a hit recently. He still has other records to chase in the Premier League as well.
Even without a Ballon d’Or, Salah’s contributions have been immense for Arne Slot’s men.
Also read: Yet another record Liverpool talisman could break this season
Sai Akshay
I'm a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.