Winners & Losers:...

The 2025 Ballon d’Or nominees began this season with high hopes, yet the experiences of football’s elite players have varied dramatically.

While some continue to excel or even enhance their performances, others have faltered due to pressure, injuries, or changes in management.

This analysis highlights the players among Europe’s elite who have solidified their bid for the sport’s top individual award and those whose aspirations have dimmed amidst a challenging season.

Denzel Dumfries (Netherlands, Inter Milan)

Dumfries was clearly the top wing-back in last season’s Champions League, consistently showcasing elite performances, especially in crucial knockout fixtures.

Although he began the 2025/26 season strongly, the Dutchman now faces a significant period of recovery following ankle surgery in early December.

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina, Inter Milan)

Martinez’s recognition as a two-time Scudetto champion is well-deserved. Since joining San Siro in 2018, he has been a reliable goal-scorer in Serie A.

His performance remains consistent this year, even after Cristian Chivu took over from Simone Inzaghi, with El Toro at the top of the Serie A scoring charts and remaining vital for Inter’s attack.

Harry Kane (England, Bayern Munich)

The all-time England top scorer has made a flying start this season, scoring an impressive 18 goals in just 14 Bundesliga matches.

Kane has also made history as the quickest player in Bundesliga history to reach 100 goal contributions, highlighting his immense value to Bayern’s current squad.

In terms of scoring prowess, few strikers can match Kane’s clinical finishing and insatiable goal-scoring drive.

Michael Olise (France, Bayern Munich)

While Olise’s stats may not jump off the page, his impact on Bayern’s attacking play is unmistakable.

He possesses the creativity and footballing intelligence necessary to open up even the tightest defenses.

Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool)

Salah’s decline has been both shocking and perplexing. He has gone from being the cornerstone of Liverpool’s 20th league title to losing the trust of coach Arne Slot.

After a falling-out with the Dutch manager, the prospect of Salah departing Anfield next month has become likely, especially as many clubs in the Saudi Pro League are eager for his signature.

It’s disheartening to witness one of the Premier League’s most iconic players face such a steep decline, especially less than six months after reaching the pinnacle of his career.

Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands, Liverpool)

Since his transfer from Southampton in 2018, Van Dijk has established himself as one of the greatest centre-backs in Premier League history.

However, he has not been performing up to his usual standards at the start of the current season.

With Liverpool struggling across various competitions and Slot’s future in doubt, even Van Dijk’s usually authoritative presence has failed to stabilize the squad.

He carries a significant amount of blame for Liverpool’s concerning defensive record.

Florian Wirtz (Germany, Leverkusen/Liverpool)

Wirtz’s transition from a highly-touted Bundesliga prospect to one of Liverpool’s most disappointing signings has been swift and, for many, unexpected.

The 22-year-old previously dominated Bundesliga defenses with his skill and vision, but his influence in the Premier League has dwindled, leaving fans at Anfield questioning what went wrong.

Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina, Liverpool)

Mac Allister, like many of his teammates, hasn’t reached his peak this season, but his role in Liverpool’s midfield remains crucial even in these turbulent times.

The Argentine playmaker continues to be a vital component of the Reds’ creative setup, controlling the tempo, regaining possession, and connecting defense and attack, even when his team struggles.

Vinicius Junior (Brazil, Real Madrid)

Vinicius has been in the Ballon d’Or conversation for years, yet he still lacks the accolades to accompany his talent, despite being a strong contender for the prestigious award.

His problematic relationship with Real Madrid’s coach Xabi Alonso suggests that a wait for recognition from France Football may continue.

Kylian Mbappe (France, Real Madrid)

In sharp contrast to Vinicius’ struggles, Mbappe has thrived this season, laying the groundwork for what might be his best outing yet at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Frenchman is already leading the race for the Golden Boot, having scored 18 league goals in as many matches.

Jude Bellingham (England, Real Madrid)

Mbappe’s stellar form has not only overshadowed Vinicius but has also eclipsed Bellingham, who has faced challenges in asserting himself this season.

Aside from occasional flashes of brilliance, Bellingham has had to adapt to the realities of being in the shadow of the French superstar.

Pedri (Spain, Barcelona)

Following his rise from Barcelona’s famous La Masia, Pedri burst onto the scene in 2020 and has since become one of the premier midfielders in Europe.

Stepping into the roles of Xavi and Andres Iniesta, Pedri is among the best playmakers in the game today, impressing for the Blaugrana in high-pressure scenarios in both La Liga and Europe.

Barcelona distinctly improves with the 23-year-old in the lineup, despite the modest goal contribution.

Don’t be misled by his six assists in 19 matches; Pedri’s true worth lies in his ability to control the game, generate opportunities, and connect plays from midfield.

Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)

Lamine Yamal possesses the potential to become a future superstar. His ambition and dedication to emulate Lionel Messi will play a crucial role in determining whether he achieves ‘GOAT’ status.

The 18-year-old is already among the world’s elite, achieving heights unseen since Messi in terms of early talent, signifying his generational abilities.

Last season, Yamal was exceptional, but it seems the fame may be impacting him this year, despite his commendable record of eight goals and 11 assists from 19 games.

Raphinha (Brazil, Barcelona)

Raphinha’s incredible resurgence during the 2024/25 season was impressive, especially considering his struggles earlier that year.

From on the brink of being labeled one of Barcelona’s biggest flops, Raphinha dramatically turned his performance around, showcasing his speed and finesse to become a vital asset for Hansi Flick.

However, his form has significantly deteriorated since last season’s record-setting Champions League campaign, and he has often appeared as a shadow of his previous self in the ongoing 2025/26 season.

Robert Lewandowski (Poland, Barcelona)

Lewandowski has faced a similar downturn, finding it difficult to replicate the consistency and scoring ability that made him one of Europe’s most dangerous strikers.

With only eight goals this season, he has already fallen out of contention for La Liga’s Golden Boot, and his intense desire to increase his stats has often proven counterproductive.

He is nowhere near as efficient as he was last year.

Serhou Guirassy (Guinea, Borussia Dortmund)

There was a time when Guirassy appeared poised to challenge Kane’s dominance in the Bundesliga, but that seems unlikely now.

With just five goals from 14 league appearances, he is at risk of being labeled a ‘one-season wonder.’

Viktor Gyokeres (Sweden, Sporting CP/Arsenal)

Five goals, including two penalties, hardly meet the expectations Arsenal had when they paid over €60m for Gyokeres from Sporting CP last summer.

The Swede has found his return to English football challenging, failing to deliver the impactful performance the Gunners anticipated following such a significant investment.

Declan Rice (England, Arsenal)

Rice has excelled for Arsenal this season, commanding the midfield with his tackling, positioning, and leadership qualities.

His ability to break up play and move the team forward has made him one of Arsenal’s most crucial players.

Erling Braut Haaland (Norway, Manchester City)

Haaland is back to his dominant self, wreaking havoc on defenses throughout the Premier League, countering the notion that last season was merely an anomaly.

The Norwegian striker has quickly taken charge of the Golden Boot race, netting 19 goals and keeping Manchester City firmly in the title chase.

Scott McTominay (Scotland, Napoli)

McTominay has transformed from a Manchester United outcast to a pivotal player for Napoli, contributing to their fourth Serie A title.

Chosen as the league’s MVP last season, McTominay continues to serve as Antonio Conte’s key player this term.

Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy, Paris Saint-Germain/Manchester City)

Donnarumma is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier goalkeepers, playing a vital role in PSG’s memorable Champions League campaign.

Deciding to part ways with Les Parisiens this summer, he joined Manchester City, and his arrival late in the transfer window has made James Trafford’s return to the Etihad redundant.

The 26-year-old has already claimed the starting spot in Manchester, consistently delivering exceptional performances week after week.

Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)

Real Madrid’s decision to relinquish Hakimi in 2020 remains one of the most criticized transfers, as the Moroccan has established himself as one of the finest right-backs in the game.

As PSG’s vice-captain, he has excelled as one of Europe’s leading wing-backs for several seasons.

Hakimi began this season impressively but faced a severe ankle injury during a Champions League matchup against Liverpool in November.

Nuno Mendes (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)

In the current football landscape, reliable left-backs are scarce, yet Nuno Mendes stands out, blending defensive strength with remarkable athleticism and attacking flair.

Mendes has become one of the most dangerous left-backs in the Champions League, frequently tormenting rival defenders with his dynamic runs and direct approach.

His impressive statistics of four goals and four assists from 18 matches underscore the quality he brings to attack.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia, Napoli/Paris Saint-Germain)

Kvaratskhelia’s transition from Napoli to Paris during the 2024/25 season has proven advantageous for Luis Enrique’s squad.

After aiding Napoli in their long-awaited Scudetto victory in 2023, the quick-footed forward adapted seamlessly to Enrique’s system, quickly emerging as a key figure for the French champions.

His performances have consistently impressed, even if his tally stands at only six goals and five assists across 21 competitive outings this season.

He remains a persistent threat thanks to his impressive combination of speed and strength, providing added value even when not directly involved in scoring.

Joao Neves (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)

No longer just a promising young player, Joao Neves has cemented his reputation as an elite midfielder under Enrique’s guidance.

Despite his smaller frame, he compensates with relentless movement, precise tackles, and the ability to disrupt opponents’ flow.

He operates like few others, becoming one of the unsung heroes in Enrique’s regime at Parc des Princes.

Beyond his technical talent and playmaking skills, Neves has shown an ability to score headers this season, exhibiting excellent positioning despite his stature.

Vitinha (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)

Every team needs a orchestrator, and Vitinha fits that role to perfection. With an average of over 50 touches per game, he orchestrates the tempo effortlessly.

Once sidelined at Wolves, Vitinha has honed his skills to become one of the best in the world, a reputation backed by his commanding performances in PSG’s impressive 2024/25 campaign.

The Portuguese midfielder has a knack for scoring spectacular goals, such as one against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League earlier this season.

He can easily be compared to the likes of Rodri and Pedri.

Fabian Ruiz (Spain, Paris Saint-Germain)

Ruiz was a cornerstone of PSG’s impressive quadruple achievement last season, establishing himself as a vital presence in the midfield alongside Neves and Vitinha.

Known for his powerful left foot and ability to hold up play, Ruiz was integral to Enrique’s strategy, continuing his good form from the 2024 European Championship.

However, this season has seen a decline in his performance, leading to reduced playing time and only seven starts in the league.

Desire Doue (France, Paris Saint-Germain)

Doue may be the most gifted player to grace the pitch since former PSG star Neymar left European competition for the riches of Saudi Arabia.

After skepticism about his ability to perform at such a high level, his match-winning display in the Champions League final has dismissed any doubts.

Whether cutting inside, embracing the flanks, or creating spaces for teammates, there seems to be no limit to the skills of this prodigious talent.

Unfortunately, recurring injuries have plagued the 20-year-old winger’s season, frequently sidelining him from play.

Ousmane Dembele (France, Paris Saint-Germain)

After eight years of moving from Borussia Dortmund to Barcelona for a staggering €105 million, Dembele has finally harnessed his potential.

The winger showcased a level of consistency and confidence previously unseen, emerging as one of PSG’s standout performers and arguably the top player in Europe last season.

He registered an impressive 48 goal contributions across 49 matches, and although his Ballon d’Or win raised some eyebrows, few could contest his achievement.

However, the Frenchman, often criticized for his professionalism, has regressed this term, once again becoming an injury-prone scapegoat.

Winners & Losers:…