We are only in March and already a list of favorites in the Ballon d'Or 2025 is emerging. Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr, Robert Lewandowski or Mohamed Salah: many can claim this price, that each player dreams of winning at least once during his career.
One of the former glories of French football, Thierry Henry, has appointed the one who, according to him, deserves to succeed Rodri at the trophy list. And against all odds, it is not a big name that is unanimous!
Ballon d'Or, Thierry Henry announces a surprise
On the CBS Sports set, the former Gunner indicates that the current FC Barcelona Raphinha player is one of the favorites to win the title. It must be said that with 27 goals and 19 assists in 41 matches in all competitions, the Brazilian has had an exceptional season, notably thanks to his performance in the Champions League. “For me, he
is currently ahead because of what he does in the Champions League with eleven goals ”, Indicates Thierry Henry.
The former Blues' attacker then declares that players like Mohamed Salah, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham or Ousmane Dembélé are also serious competitors in the Ballon d'Or, but that the versatility of Raphinha makes the difference: “If you performed in the Champions League, if you win your championship, you will obviously have your say. But Raphinha scored a lot of goals with only a penalty. I am not saying that Kane should not pull the penalties, and Mo Salah signs a season in the Premier League that we will not see even if the records are made to be broken, but if a guy has the same total goals as you without drawing the penalties, you have to talk a little more … “
As every year, it will be necessary to wait until the end of October to officially know the name of the winner of the Ballon d'Or 2025. While the bets are already launched, they will continue to refine over the season. One thing is certain, the Champions League will be one of the determining elements that will designate Rodri's successor.
