Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah are currently two of the most outstanding players in world football, and both are likely candidates for the prestigious Ballon d'Or 2025. Since his free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid, Mbappe has powered through the season, netting 27 goals and providing four assists across 39 appearances. Simultaneously, Salah has delivered exceptional performances for Liverpool, scoring 30 goals and supplying 22 assists through the same number of matches. Their dazzling statistics make them frontrunners, but former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand suggests the ultimate victor might be decided during the UEFA Champions League knockout stages.
Ferdinand, speaking on TNT Sports, highlighted the significance of the Champions League as players battle for glory. "Right now, I don’t think there’s anyone else on the podium with him [Salah]. But I think with the way the Champions League works, as you get through the knockout stages and say someone starts coming to the fore…" Ferdinand noted. He believes Mbappe's recent performances, especially his hat-trick against Manchester City, could keep him at the forefront of discussions about the award. He added, "Hat-trick last game [against Manchester City]. Everyone said the wheels have fallen off, and all of a sudden, he’s still churning out big numbers. He hasn’t won it; there’s hunger, isn’t there?"
Indeed, both players are under constant public scrutiny, and their performances on the grand stage could determine their chances of winning the coveted trophy. The Champions League's Round of 16 is approaching, with Real Madrid set to face city rivals Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool scheduled to meet PSG. It is expected these fixtures might shape the outcome of the individual prizes alongside the teams' overall success.
While Mbappe's form has seen him transition successfully to play as a center-forward for Real Madrid, Salah has firmly established himself as Liverpool's key player, with his goal-scoring prowess making him the highest scorer in the Premier League this season, where he has netted 25 goals. Salah has played a pivotal role for Liverpool as they challenge for the top spot, currently accumulating 67 points from 28 games.
Rio Ferdinand stressed the uncertainty of naming Ballon d'Or favorites so early. Much will depend not only on individual statistics but also on the success of their respective teams. He stated, "If Salah can lead Liverpool to Champions League or Premier League glory, he could be a major contender. Meanwhile, if Real Madrid wins the UCL once again and bags La Liga, Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr could also be contenders."
Despite both players' impressive statistics this season, neither has won the Ballon d'Or to date. Kylian Mbappe has been nominated for the award seven times, making waves as the youngest-ever nominee back in 2017, which came after his instrumental role in leading AS Monaco to the Ligue 1 title. Since then, he has maintained his status at the top of world football, completing his move to PSG before transferring to Real Madrid. His best finish for the award was third place last year, trailing behind Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.
Meanwhile, Salah has also been nominated for the prestigious accolade on six occasions. His highest finishes were fifth place, achieved consecutively in 2019 and 2022. Notably, Salah was left off the nominees' list last year, marking his second absence since joining Liverpool.
With both superstars rising to the occasion, anticipation builds around who will claim the Ballon d'Or this year. Fans are eager to see how the remainder of the Champions League will impact the standings. The stage is set, and Mbappe and Salah are ready to shine as they strive to reach yet another pinnacle of their illustrious careers.
It’s apparent the Ballon d'Or race is heating up as we edge closer to key matches, and both players seem poised to make history. To wherever their paths may lead them, fans worldwide will be watching closely, cheering for both talents to see who will stand atop the football world.