"Trophy isn’t decided by just one match" - Frenkie De Jong makes bold Ballon d'Or 2025 prediction
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong has made his thoughts known on the 2025 Ballon d'Or amid speculation that teammate Lamine Yamal is a frontrunner. Teenage sensation Yamal is in the running to claim the award this year after putting on several stunning performances for club and country.
In an interview with Dutch outlet VZ (via Barca Universal), the experienced midfielder was asked to comment on Yamal's recent claims regarding the Ballon d'Or. The former Ajax man pointed out that the award can not be decided on the back of just one game but rather a culmination of performances throughout the season. He praised his teammate as a special player who deserves recognition for his displays.
"That trophy isn’t decided by just one match or a title. It’s about the full season. There’s no doubt that Lamine is a special talent and deserves recognition.”
Lamine Yamal spoke ahead of the UEFA Nations League semi-final between Spain and France, a game that pitted him against Ousmane Dembele, another frontrunner. The youngster revealed that he was prepared for a direct Ballon d'Or showdown and backed up his claims with a brace to send his country to the final.
Barcelona captain De Jong has witnessed the rapid development of 17-year-old forward Yamal, whose first-team debut came in 2023. The teenager scored 18 goals and provided 21 assists as Barcelona won LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de Espana this season.
This year, the Ballon d'Or has been slated for September 22nd, and the likes of Yamal and Dembele will be aiming to win the award. Several other players have distinguished themselves this season, and one of them will succeed Rodri as the recipient of the award.
Real Madrid legend makes bizarre Ballon d'Or pick
Real Madrid legend Marcelo has made his pick for the 2025 Ballon d'Or as the race for this year's award heats up. The former Brazil international backed former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to scoop the award in a surprise choice.
"Who should win the Ballon d’Or? Cristiano Ronaldo."
Marcelo named his choice for the award after a Real Madrid legends game against German outfit Borussia Dortmund legends, which ended 3-3. He wants the award to go to the 40-year-old forward, who has won it five times in his career so far.
Cristiano Ronaldo led the goalscoring in the Saudi Pro League with 25 goals, winning the Golden boot for a second season running. He found the net for Portugal in their UEFA Nations League semi-final last week, sending his side to face Spain in the final.
