Former AC Milan and Real Madrid star Kaka has named six players he believes are favorites to win the prestigious 2025 Ballon d'Or award.
The Brazilian legend, now 43, identified Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, PSG's Kylian Mbappe, Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, PSG's Ousmane Dembele, Barcelona's Raphinha, and Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk as the leading contenders for football's most coveted individual honor.
Speaking to SPORTbible about the Ballon d'Or race, Kaka said: "For [this year's Ballon d'Or] race, I'd say Mohamed Salah. Virgil Van Dijk should get recognition as well."
"I'd say Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha," he continued. "Dembele has a really good season as well, and if he can be the protagonist in the final [of the Champions League], he will be one of the favourites as well."
The 2007 Ballon d'Or winner emphasized that the upcoming Champions League final could play a crucial role in determining this year's winner, potentially boosting Dembele's chances if he delivers a standout performance.
Kaka's endorsement comes just days after former Barcelona striker David Villa publicly backed Lamine Yamal to win the 2025 Ballon d'Or. The 17-year-old Barcelona winger has enjoyed a breakthrough season, establishing himself as one of world football's most exciting young talents.
The Ballon d'Or, organized by France Football magazine, is awarded annually to the world's best male footballer as voted by journalists from around the globe. According to reports, 22 African countries will be eligible to vote in this year's ceremony.
Liverpool's Salah has previously expressed that this year represents his "best chance" to win the prestigious award, having come close on several occasions throughout his illustrious career.
