Bradley Barcola comes out of a full season, marked by high-level statistics and a major role in the conquest of the historic triple of Paris Saint-Germain. With 21 goals and 18 assists, the French international shone by his regularity, to the point of registering a double in the final of the Coupe de France. Despite this consistency and an impact comparable to that of the favorite Lamine Yamal in terms of direct involvement on goals, his name was not retained from the 30 candidates for the 2025 Golden Ball.
Barcola has never been in the blow for the Ballon d'Or
However, the revelations of Big 5
The team are final: Barcola has never been close to joining the Top 30. Vincent Garcia, editor -in -chief of France Football, quoted Julian Alvarez as potential “31st man”, followed by Jamal Musiala and Alexander Isak. Dave Appadoo confirmed that Isak was the one who had struck the strongest at the door of the 30, but that he lacked European influence. No trace of the Parisian in these final discussions.
This observation surprises all the more since Barcola has not experienced long absence or of a void comparable to some nominees, such as Cole Palmer or Erling Haaland. If he lost his holder in the Champions League final, he has remained decisive all season. Its absence therefore reflects less a oblivion than a gap between perceived performance and criteria used by jurors.
Bradley Barcola, far from the debates for the Ballon d'Or
A wider gap than expected
The choices for the Ballon d'Or often favor the influence on the international scene and the shine in major competitions. Even Cole Palmer, however less regular, owes his presence at his club World Cup. Without such a striking event to his credit, Barcola remained in the shadows despite his statistics.
For the 21-year-old, this non-nomination could serve as motivation. He has already proven that he could impose himself in a PSG stuffed with stars. The next step will be to strike stronger on the international scene to invite yourself, one day, at the Table of the 30.
