The Ballon d’Or remains football’s most prestigious individual honour, awarded annually to the player deemed the best in the world over the previous season. As the 2025 ceremony approaches, speculation is already intensifying over who will be crowned in Paris this September. With familiar legends fading from the spotlight, a new wave of talent has emerged to challenge for the throne.
Barcelona legend Deco has added his voice to the conversation, offering a personal shortlist of four standout players he believes deserve the award. His choices have sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike — especially given the high-profile names he left out.
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The Surprise Omission of Big Names
It’s not unusual for Ballon d’Or debates to stir controversy, but Deco’s list takes bold turns. His decision to leave out both Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappe has raised eyebrows, especially considering their extraordinary 2024–25 campaigns. Salah delivered over 50 goal contributions for Liverpool, while Mbappe clinched the European Golden Shoe and continued to lead France’s national team with distinction.
Such omissions may reflect a larger shift in how performances are evaluated. While goal tallies and headlines matter, Deco seems to favour consistent influence across competitions and game-changing moments in defining matches. His picks suggest a tilt toward emerging stars who have reshaped their teams and stood out in the most demanding stages.
Lamine Yamal – The Teenage Prodigy on the Rise
At just 17, Lamine Yamal has become a symbol of Barcelona’s next era. Bursting into prominence with dazzling footwork, sharp decision-making, and fearlessness under pressure, he has defied expectations for someone so young. Yamal was a constant presence in both La Liga and European fixtures, showcasing maturity that belies his age.
No teenager has ever lifted the Ballon d’Or — not even Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo managed that. If Yamal were to win, it would mark a historic moment in the award’s legacy. Deco’s endorsement reflects the sentiment that the youngster isn’t just a promise for the future — he’s already a force in the present.
Pedri – The Heartbeat of Barcelona’s Midfield
When discussing the best midfielders in Europe, Pedri’s name often rises to the top. Despite injury concerns in previous seasons, the 2024–25 campaign saw him return to full strength and dominate Barcelona’s midfield. His vision, control, and ability to dictate tempo have become central to the club’s identity.
Pedri is not the flashiest player on the pitch, but his impact is undeniable. He provides balance and rhythm, bridging defence and attack with elegance. His performances throughout the season have drawn praise from analysts across Europe — and from Deco, who regards him as one of the few players truly capable of shaping entire games.
Ousmane Dembele – A Career Reborn at PSG
Ousmane Dembele’s move to Paris Saint-Germain was a turning point. Often criticised during his Barcelona years for inconsistency, the French international has reinvented himself in Ligue 1 and on the European stage. His pace, creativity, and directness became essential to PSG’s campaign, both domestically and in the Champions League.
What sets this season apart for Dembele is his consistency. He delivered in crucial moments, silenced his critics, and earned respect through performances, not just reputation. Deco’s inclusion of Dembele highlights a remarkable comeback story — one of raw talent transformed into leadership and discipline.
Vitinha – The Unsung Hero Who Shined Brightest
Vitinha may not have the global fame of some of his peers, but his rise this season has been impossible to ignore. The Portuguese midfielder was a standout in PSG’s Champions League run, often controlling games with poise and determination. His performances peaked at the perfect time, as he played a vital role in Portugal’s Nations League triumph as well.
Quietly effective and tactically brilliant, Vitinha went from being a supporting cast member to a central figure. His evolution has earned him a place in Deco’s list, underscoring that influence on the pitch goes beyond flashy moments — it’s about consistency, timing, and rising to the occasion when it matters most.
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Conclusion
Deco’s Ballon d’Or picks highlight a changing of the guard in world football. The absence of established icons and the rise of younger, hungrier talents signal a shift in how excellence is defined on the pitch.
Whether or not his predictions come true, the conversation they spark is valuable. It invites fans to look beyond the obvious and consider the broader context of performances, leadership, and influence throughout a demanding season.
As the countdown to September begins, one thing is clear: the 2025 Ballon d’Or will mark more than just an individual achievement — it may define a new generation of greatness.
