French international Ousmane Dembele has described winning the Ballon d'Or as the "Holy Grail" for footballers while remaining modest about his own chances of claiming the prestigious award in 2025.
The Paris Saint-Germain star enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 campaign, netting 33 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions while helping Luis Enrique's side secure an impressive treble of the UEFA Champions League, French Cup, and Ligue 1 title.
When asked by France Football to evaluate his prospects for football's most coveted individual honor, Dembele responded with characteristic humility.
"These are difficult things to say. But winning a Ballon d'Or when you're a football player is obviously the Holy Grail individually," the 26-year-old stated. "It is something you dream about when you are little. The award is exceptional."
Fierce Competition for the Golden Ball
Despite his outstanding performances, Dembele faces stiff competition from several world-class players. The Frenchman will be challenging the likes of Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, Barcelona's young sensation Lamine Yamal, and teammates Vitinha and Kylian Mbappe for the award.
Barcelona stars Raphinha and Pedri are also considered strong contenders following impressive seasons of their own.
The organizers of the Ballon d'Or are expected to announce the complete list of nominees in the coming weeks, with football legends and current players already weighing in on who they believe deserves the prestigious accolade.
Dembele's remarkable contribution to PSG's treble-winning season has certainly put him in the conversation, though his modest assessment reflects the exceptional standard required to claim football's highest individual honor.
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