Former Real Madrid winger, Gareth Bale, has identified Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembele as his top pick to win the 2025 Ballon d'Or award, describing the French star as the favorite "by some way."
Dembele has enjoyed a remarkable season that puts him ahead of other contenders including Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and his compatriot Kylian Mbappe, who now plays for Real Madrid.
The PSG winger has been in phenomenal form, contributing 35 goals and 16 assists as the Parisian club secured the Ligue 1 title and two domestic trophies. His influence was also crucial in PSG's historic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, helping the club lift the prestigious European trophy for the first time.
PSG could add yet another trophy to their impressive haul this Sunday when they face Chelsea in the Club World Cup final, potentially completing an extraordinary season for both the club and Dembele personally.
Speaking to ESPN about the 2025 Ballon d'Or race, Bale emphasized the importance of team achievements alongside individual brilliance.
"Yes, I think so," the Welsh icon responded when asked if Dembele is the favorite. "I think you also have to look what the teams have won."
"I think everyone obviously talks about individuals, but I think if you are winning those trophies as well, you're winning the Champions league, obviously they've won their domestic treble, if they win again the Club World Cup, it's hard to see anyone else from the season he's had and he's transformed them into trophies as well as the season he's had. It does make him the front runner by some way in my opinion."
Dembele's exceptional performances throughout the season have not only elevated his personal status but have been instrumental in PSG's trophy-laden campaign, making a compelling case for him to claim football's most prestigious individual honor.
The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony will be closely watched by football fans worldwide, with Dembele now emerging as the clear frontrunner according to many experts and former players like Bale.
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