May 2, 2025/Midnight 

Erie, Pa.– As the season nears its end, discussions around the next Ballon d’Or winner are starting to heat up. There are always familiar names in the mix: Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham come to mind, but if I had to guess right now, I’d place everything on either Pedri or Raphinha. Yes, two players from Barcelona. While many can say that it is not certain if Barcelona will make it to the champions league final after their recent tie with Inter, I still think they are one of the most probable teams to lift the Champions League this year. And if that happens, one of these two could very well rise to the top of the individual honors as well.

Pedri has been the heartbeat of Barcelona. His intelligence on the pitch, composure under pressure, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match make him a truly special midfielder, one reminiscent of the Xavi–Iniesta era. If Barça go all the way in Europe, it will be largely because of his influence in the midfield.

Then there’s Raphinha. Often overlooked in comparison to his flashier teammates like Yamal, but he’s quietly been one of the most consistent performers. His work rate, versatility, and clutch contributions (particularly in the Champions League) have made a real difference. If he continues to put up big performances in the remaining stages, he will surely sneak into the top ranks in the Ballon d’Or conversation.

Of course, who deserves to win and who will win are often two different discussions. While I believe Pedri or Raphinha might win, my heart wants Ousmane Dembélé or Mohamed Salah to take the honor.

Let’s talk about Dembélé first. His raw talent has never been a doubt. Even when injuries have interrupted his rhythm over the years, he’s still fit and firing and one of the most electric players in the world. Now at Paris Saint–Germain, he’s finding form at just the right time. If PSG manage to win the Champions League (a very real possibility considering their recent win against Arsenal in the first leg of the semi–finals) Dembélé could finally get the recognition he deserves. His dribbling, creativity, ability and good management of both feet make him a player that has the power to change a game in an instant. It makes him a nightmare for defenders. A Ballon d’Or win for him would feel like justice for a player who’s long been misunderstood or mistreated.

Then there’s Salah. Honestly, if it were up to passion and consistency alone, he’d have won it already. I’ve followed Liverpool closely this season, watching nearly every game, and Salah has been a standout not just for the club, but across Europe. Despite the ups and downs of Liverpool’s campaign, he’s delivered time and time again. He’s broken multiple records this season, becoming one of the Premier League’s all–time greats. What makes it even more special is the quiet leadership he brings. He’s not the loudest on the pitch, but his presence is always felt.

Salah’s form has been nothing short of sensational, and even if Liverpool fall short of major titles in terms of quantity, his individual brilliance shouldn’t go unnoticed. If the Ballon d’Or truly values individual excellence over the overall performance of a team and titles, then Salah must be in the conversation.

In the end, the Ballon d’Or often comes down to titles. That’s why I lean towards Pedri or Raphinha, Barcelona still has the tools to go all the way in Europe. But football is also about moments, stories, and redemption arcs. And for that reason, my hopes lie with Dembélé and Salah.

Let’s see how the rest of the season unfolds, but whatever happens, I think we’re in for one of the most exciting Ballon d’Or races in years.