Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has cast doubt on teammate Lamine Yamal's chances of winning the 2025 Ballon d'Or, suggesting that the prestigious award's organizers may be biased in their selection process.
The Polish forward, who was controversially overlooked for the award in 2021 despite being widely considered the favorite, expressed his frustration with France Football's selection criteria, claiming they "only give it to whoever they deem fit."
"He has a chance, of course, but there are other things that are very important about the Ballon d'Or," Lewandowski told Mundo Deportivo when asked about Yamal's prospects. "It depends on the rules they have this year. Every year, you have different rules. It depends on who they want and what the rules are this season."
The veteran striker added: "In the end you're not sure what the important rules are this season," highlighting his apparent disillusionment with the award he once coveted.
Top Contenders for the 2025 Award
Yamal and former Barcelona star Ousmane Dembélé, now at Paris Saint-Germain, have emerged as the leading candidates for the 2025 Ballon d'Or following exceptional seasons with their respective clubs.
The young Yamal has been instrumental in Barcelona's domestic success, contributing 18 goals and 25 assists across 55 appearances as the Catalans secured a treble of La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España titles.
Meanwhile, Dembélé, who departed Barcelona for PSG in 2023, has enjoyed a remarkable campaign in France, scoring 33 goals and providing 15 assists in 49 matches. His performances were crucial in PSG's Champions League triumph, Ligue 1 title, and two additional domestic trophies.
Lewandowski's comments reflect the ongoing debate about transparency in football's most coveted individual award, particularly after his own disappointment in 2021 when Lionel Messi claimed the prize despite widespread expectation that the Polish striker would be recognized for his exceptional performances.
As the football world anticipates the 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony, Lewandowski's skepticism adds another layer to the conversation about how the winner is ultimately determined.
