The 2024-25 football season is entering its critical phase, with impending trophies, European qualifications, and relegation battles underway. As domestic leagues across Europe and UEFA competitions approach their conclusion, discussions are turning to end-of-year accolades, especially the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually in October, honors the best football player based on their performance over the previous year. The decision is made through a voting process involving 100 journalists representing countries ranked in the top 100 by FIFA. Lionel Messi holds the record with eight wins, followed by Cristiano Ronaldo with five and Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten, each with three.

With six months remaining until the next award ceremony, The Athletic has identified the leading candidates for the Ballon d’Or based on their performances thus far. These rankings will be updated as player forms fluctuate throughout the season.

Top Contenders for the Ballon d’Or

1. Raphinha (Barcelona and Brazil)

Performance Overview: Raphinha has emerged as a standout player in La Liga, leading with an impressive 28 goals and 20 assists in 45 matches across all competitions. His contribution is pivotal to Barcelona’s aspirations for a treble this year.

Recent Highlights: After a brief substitute appearance, Raphinha scored the opening goal in a Champions League quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund, boosting his total to a club-record 19 goal contributions in the Champions League this season, matching Lionel Messi’s best from 2011-12.

2. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain and France)

Performance Overview: Dembélé has transformed from a talented winger into a consistent performer, racking up 32 goals in 41 appearances so far this season, including 21 since January. His maturity in PSG’s youth-focused team under Luis Enrique marks a significant evolution.

Recent Highlights: Dembélé was instrumental in PSG’s recent Champions League win over Aston Villa, assisting Nuno Mendes for a crucial goal late in the match.

3. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona and Spain)

Performance Overview: Yamal continues to captivate audiences with his skill, accumulating 14 goals and 17 assists this season. His performances have only solidified his status as a rising star.

Recent Highlights: Following a quieter outing against Real Betis, Yamal rebounded with a stellar performance against Dortmund where he finished with a well-executed goal.

4. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich and England)

Performance Overview: Kane has adapted seamlessly to the Bundesliga, scoring 36 league goals in his debut season last year and maintaining a strong tally of 23 this season. His contributions are vital for Bayern’s title challenge.

Recent Highlights: Kane scored the opening goal in Bayern’s win over Augsburg but faced difficulties in the Champions League against Inter Milan, where he could not find the net.

5. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid and France)

Performance Overview: Despite a rocky start to his tenure at Real Madrid, Mbappé boasts a remarkable 32 goals in 47 games overall. His role in steering Madrid’s offense has become increasingly crucial.

Recent Highlights: However, recent losses against Valencia and Arsenal highlighted challenges, with Mbappé unable to convert significant chances when needed most.

6. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool and Egypt)

Performance Overview: Salah has had an exceptional season, contributing a staggering 44 goal involvements (27 goals, 17 assists) in the Premier League. This performance is among the best in the league’s recent history.

Recent Highlights: Despite a dip in form last weekend, Salah’s significance to Liverpool’s title quest remains paramount, underscored by a new two-year contract.

7. Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan and Italy)

Performance Overview: As a crucial defender for Inter, Bastoni has played more than any other outfield player in Serie A this season, highlighting his reliability in defense.

Recent Highlights: His absence during a setback against Parma was felt, yet he rebounded to help secure a victory against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

8. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona and Poland)

Performance Overview: The seasoned Lewandowski continues to excel, currently leading Europe with 40 goals across competitions. His experience remains vital for Barcelona’s title ambitions.

Recent Highlights: He played a crucial role in the recent Champions League match by scoring twice against Dortmund, further solidifying his team’s strong position.

9. Pedri (Barcelona and Spain)

Performance Overview: Pedri has become the midfield dynamo for Barcelona, showcasing consistent performances filled with vision, pace, and defensive prowess throughout the season.

Recent Highlights: He found more freedom and influence in the game against Dortmund, allowing him to assert his playmaking abilities effectively.

10. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid and England)

Performance Overview: While Bellingham has faced moments of inconsistency, he has still recorded 11 goals and 10 assists, proving his potential as a standout midfielder in high-pressure situations.

Recent Highlights: His recent contributions in crucial matches highlight his role, particularly against Arsenal, where he needs to maintain high performance levels for consecutive fixtures ahead.