Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been named “Golden Ball” winner by CIES Football Observatory, with Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe claiming the runner-up spot. There is no place in the top five for Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele despite the World Cup-winning France international being favourite to land the coveted Ballon d’Or in 2025.

Getty/GOALWho wins Ballon d'Or battle in 2025?

Yamal is also in the running for that prize after helping Barca to three domestic honours in 2024-25 – including the Liga title. At 18 years of age, one of the hottest prospects in world football continues to rewrite the history books.

How to watch the Ballon d'Or 2025 on TVAdvertisementYamal's stunning performances recognised

He may not walk away with the Golden Ball handed out by France Football at a glitzy ceremony in Paris on September 22, but he has been awarded one by the CIES Football Observatory.

How 'Golden Ball' results are generated

They consider Yamal to have been the best performer in world football over the course of the last 12 months, with six areas of play being analysed before delivering a final rating. Superstar performers are also judged on their sporting level and the results of matches that they figured in.

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Top five on CIES Football Observatory list

Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ Mbappe takes second spot, just ahead of Barca midfielder Pedri. Liverpool’s talismanic captain Virgil van Dijk and Bayern Munich playmaker Michael Olise complete the top five, with Dembele having to settle for seventh place.