Ousmane Dembélé, the Paris Saint-Germain and France national team forward, has won the 2025 Ballon d’Or, beating Lamine Yamal after a stellar season with goals and assists in PSG’s Champions League triumph.
VIDEO: Ousmane Dembélé Wins 2025 Ballon d’Or: PSG & France Star Shines!
The 28-year-old Frenchman, who also represents the France national team, edged out Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal in a tightly contested race, as announced at the glamorous ceremony in Paris on September 22, 2025. Dembélé’s victory marks a stunning redemption arc, following years of injury setbacks and inconsistent form during his time at Barcelona after a high-profile move from Borussia Dortmund. His selection by a panel of international journalists underscores not just individual brilliance but also his pivotal role in team successes, blending flair, creativity, and clutch contributions that lit up pitches across Europe.
Background to Ousmane Dembélé’s Performance leading to his victory in 2025 Ballon d’Or
Dembélé’s standout 2024-25 season was nothing short of spectacular, with the versatile attacker repositioned as a central striker by PSG manager Luis Enrique—a tactical masterstroke that unlocked his full potential. He racked up an impressive 21 goals and eight assists in Ligue 1 alone, sharing the league’s top scorer honors and earning a spot on the Team of the Year. But it was his Champions League heroics that truly propelled him to the forefront, where he netted eight goals against top-tier defenses, including strikes in pivotal clashes with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal.
These moments of magic helped orchestrate PSG’s first-ever European crown, alongside domestic triumphs in the Coupe de France and Trophée des Champions, forming a coveted treble. Statistically, his 33 goals and 15 assists across all competitions placed him among Europe’s most productive attackers, outshining rivals like Mohamed Salah and Raphinha in goal involvements.
For the France national team, Dembélé’s form translated into international poise, where his speed and vision added depth to Les Bleus’ attack during qualifiers and friendlies. Though international trophies eluded France this cycle, his seamless integration alongside stars like Kylian Mbappé highlighted his adaptability and leadership on the global stage. PSG’s dominance at the Ballon d’Or gala was evident, with nine players from the club nominated and teammate Vitinha securing third place, while the Parisians were honored as Men’s Club of the Year. Dembélé himself credited the collective spirit, noting in his acceptance speech how Enrique’s faith in him reignited his career, turning early-season doubts into a symphony of silverware and personal accolades.
The win has sent ripples through the football world, reigniting debates on the Ballon d’Or’s criteria—prioritizing club achievements in a season without major internationals like the Euros or World Cup. Fans and pundits alike hailed it as a feel-good story, with Dembélé’s market value surging by €30 million amid PSG’s resurgence. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, at just 17, finished a close second, signaling the next generation’s rise, while Liverpool’s Salah and Barcelona’s Raphinha rounded out the top five. This outcome also spotlights PSG’s shift from big-money underachievers to trophy magnets, bolstered by signings like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué, who complemented Dembélé’s artistry.
As Dembélé prepares for PSG’s title defense and France’s upcoming campaigns, his Ballon d’Or triumph serves as inspiration for young talents navigating career hurdles. Ghana Trends Media will continue delivering in-depth coverage of global soccer milestones, from European leagues to African stars making waves. What does this mean for PSG’s dynasty? Share your predictions below.
