SO FOOT Journalist: Dembele's Ballon d'Or Chances Slim; Mbappe Remains France Leader
French magazine SO FOOT journalist Diop published an analysis of the 2025 Ballon d'Or race, stating no clear frontrunner exists. He dismisses Ousmane Dembele's chances, noting Mbappe remains France's leader and Kvaratskhelia was Champions League best player. Michael Olise, despite being World Cup assist leader and Bundesliga Player of the Year, lacked decisive performances in key matches. Diop questions whether Fabian Ruiz, who won both Champions League and World Cup but was not best player in either, should be a top candidate, suggesting the evaluation system may be flawed. Lamine Yamal, with La Liga and World Cup titles, is talented but had only one World Cup goal and no individual awards. Diop argues the Ballon d'Or should reward the best season performance, not just talent.
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