As the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or nears its climax, attention has shifted to the FIFA Club World Cup, where a handful of contenders have a final chance to leave a lasting impression on voters.
For front-runners like Mohamed Salah, Raphinha, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, the absence of Liverpool and Barcelona from the expanded tournament in the U.S. means missing a golden opportunity to bolster their cases with one last major trophy and standout performances on a global stage.
That opens the door for others — players whose clubs are still in the tournament — to surge up the Ballon d’Or rankings with decisive displays. Here are five stars who could significantly strengthen their bids:
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
With Kylian Mbappé sidelined, Dembélé has emerged as PSG’s creative heartbeat under Luis Enrique. His explosive form and match-winning contributions have made him the team’s go-to threat. The Club World Cup offers a chance to further assert himself and climb into serious Ballon d’Or contention.
Vitinha (PSG)
Often overlooked, Vitinha has quietly been one of PSG’s most consistent performers this season. His calm control, vision, and tactical intelligence have been crucial to the team’s midfield dominance. A commanding run in the tournament could finally earn him the recognition his season deserves.
Nuno Mendes (PSG)
When fit, Mendes is one of Europe’s elite full-backs. Combining defensive solidity with attacking flair, he brings rare balance to the left flank. A string of standout performances in the U.S. could position him as a rare defensive candidate in a Ballon d’Or field often dominated by attackers.
Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund)
After a sensational season with Dortmund, including a share of the Champions League Golden Boot, Guirassy arrives at the Club World Cup in top form. If he powers Dortmund to the title, his prolific goal-scoring and big-match credentials could propel him into the Ballon d’Or discussion.
Desire Doue (PSG)
Doue’s breakout season has already turned heads — 15 goals, 15 assists, and a man-of-the-match performance in the Champions League final. The young attacker’s creativity and flair have made him a fan favorite, and a strong showing at the Club World Cup could cement his spot among the elite.
With many favourites watching from afar, these stars have one final shot to make their mark — and possibly reshape the Ballon d’Or narrative.
