Arsenal has splashed big in the 2025 Ballon d’Or shortlist. A record 14 players and officials from both the men’s and women’s team have been included. That’s a joint highest from any club this season—a testament to how dominant both teams have been on the world stage.
Arsenal Men’s Team: Rice, Raya, and Gyokeres in the Limelight
On the male side, Arsenal’s Declan Rice and new acquisition Viktor Gyokeres are included in the 30 candidates for the Ballon d’Or’s top honor. Rice excelled in midfield with his well-rounded play, while Gyokeres impressed with his impressive form at Sporting prior to joining the Emirates.
Goalkeeper David Raya has also been recognized—he’s a candidate for the Yashin Trophy, which recognizes the year’s keeper.
Arsenal Women’s Team: Kelly, Russo, Williamson and more
Arsenal’s success has been even greater in the women’s game. Seven Gunners—Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, Leah Williamson, Mariona Caldentey, Steph Catley, Emily Fox, and Frida Maanum—are among the nominees for the Ballon d’Or Féminin. This is a record number of nominees from any club this year.
With their Champions League victory and strong Euros performances, players such as Russo and Williamson are good bets to finish high on the list.
Strength Across Positions and Genders
One of the few teams to have multiple nominations in various categories are Arsenal. Not only in the main awards. But also within the goalkeeper category—Daphne van Domselaar for the women and Raya for the men.
Why So Many Arsenal Players Made the List
Arsenal achieved remarkable things: a robust Premier League conclusion, Champions League semi-final for the men’s team, a good pre season. And Women’s Champions League victory. These consistent, high-quality performances gained international recognition.
For the men’s team:
Rice seamlessly settled into midfield. He emerged as a crucial player. Gyokeres excelled with a goal-laden season at Sporting prior to moving to Arsenal.
For the women’s team:
The combination of leadership (Williamson), finishing ability (Russo), and global achievement (Kelly, Catley) shone brightest on the grandest stages.
What to Watch as the Ballon d’Or Unfolds
As the Ballon d’Or ceremony nears in Paris on September 22, everyone will be looking at Arsenal’s impressive nomination list. The question everyone wants answered is whether dominance in nominations will result in real award victories. Fans will be keeping a keen eye on whether Alessia Russo or Leah Williamson wins it. Who will be able to break into a competitive mix of Europe’s top players is still a question. Declan Rice and Viktor Gyokeres may also surprise everyone by rising into the final top rankings. And in the goalkeeper categories, David Raya and Daphne van Domselaar may be about to pull off the upset. They just might win the coveted titles.
Final Thoughts on Arsenal
Arsenal’s inclusion in 2025 nominations is just a reflection of how far they’ve traveled. Both of their teams are now in the elite group. It’s proof that intelligent recruitment, top-class coaching, and development of talent throughout the club have paid off. Whether any of them win the sparkling trophies is yet to be seen. But for now, Gunners are well and truly in the limelight.
Author’s Note
Witnessing 14 Arsenal players being listed for Ballon d’Or awards is more than a source of pride. It’s a testament to the growth, ambition, and consistency of the club at the highest level. From veteran stars to young guns all are in the nominee list. This is an indication that**Arteta’s** Arsenal project is yielding results on the international scene. Awards are individual, but they are a reflection of the team effort. Also the coaching department, and the support crew in the background – they play an important role. Whatever the ultimate result, the very fact that there are so many Gunners in the running is a clear indication that the future for Arsenal is as bright as its current status.
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