Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has publicly endorsed Ousmane Dembele as his choice for the 2025 Ballon d'Or award following PSG's emphatic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Enrique was full of praise for the French winger's performance despite not getting on the scoresheet himself.

"I'd give the Ballon d'Or to Ousmane Dembélé," Enrique told reporters. "The way he defended tonight... only that can be worthy of the Ballon d'Or."

The PSG manager highlighted Dembele's all-round contribution beyond just attacking prowess. "This is how you lead a team. Goals, titles, leadership, defending, how he was pressing. Ousmane is my Ballon d'Or. No doubts at all," he added.

Dembele, 28, has been instrumental in PSG's historic treble-winning season, contributing an impressive 33 goals and 15 assists across all competitions. His exceptional form has placed him among the frontrunners for football's most prestigious individual award.

The French international faces stiff competition for the Ballon d'Or, with Barcelona forwards Raphinha and Lamine Yamal also considered strong contenders following their performances this season.

PSG's dominant display in the Champions League final caps off a remarkable season for the Parisian club, with former players and pundits praising their performance. Rio Ferdinand noted how PSG "suffocated Inter Milan" and "pressed the life out of them" during the match.

The victory also saw Enrique equal Pep Guardiola's managerial record in the competition, further cementing his reputation as one of football's elite coaches.