The Ballon d’Or contenders currently playing in La Liga

Although football is arguably more of a team sport than ever before, the beautiful game still allows individual stars to stand out.

The Ballon d’Or is the most prestigious individual honour, which shines a light on game-changing players, with last season’s winner, Rodri, claiming the prize after winning the Euros with Spain and leading Manchester City to a fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Now, with the 2024/25 season entering its latter stages, fans are debating online and assessing the best bookmakers at FIRST.com before predicting their eventual winner.

Rodri’s season-ending injury in September rules him out of the reckoning, but some top performers in La Liga could win the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Raphinha

Barcelona’s resurgence under Hansi Flick has been special, but it wouldn’t be as memorable without Raphinha’s input. The Brazilian, who is currently priced at 2/1 with Coral to win this year’s award, has been unstoppable.

Arguably the most efficient player in the team’s formidable front three, the former Leeds United hero is the current favourite to win the award.

He’s scored the most goals in the Champions League (12) and he also tops the assists chart with seven to his name.

Could Raphinha be the first Brazilian winner since Kaka in 2007? It’s looking likely.

Vinicius Junior

After finishing second last time out, Vinicius Junior will be desperate to make up for it. With eight Champions League strikes, plus 11 goals and five assists in the league this season, the Real Madrid and Brazil star is in with a chance.

However, given Real Madrid’s UCL failure, it feel like last year’s award was his best chance of reigning supreme, hence why odds of 8/1 (Ladbrokes) suggest he’s dropped down the rankings.

Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid are desperate for a player in their star-studded lineup to win the Ballon d’Or this season. And while it seems unlikely it’ll be Vini Junior, teammate, Kylian Mbappe represents their best chance.

The Frenchman has adapted to his new surroundings, registering seven goals and picking up one assist in Europe, while his return of 22 La Liga goals and three assists is mighty impressive.

Odds of 5/2 with Coral will certainly tempt some.

Robert Lewandowski

Highlighting Real Madrid and Barcelona’s dominance this season, Robert Lewandowski is another contender from the two Spanish behemoths.

The Polish striker is still going strong at the age of 36, with odds of 8/1 (Coral) suggesting he isn’t completely out of the running for the Ballon d’Or, particularly with Barcelona still on for their third treble since 2009.

The top scorer in La Liga with 25 goals, plus the second-highest scorer in the Champions League with 11, Lewandowski’s longevity is remarkable.

Lamine Yamal

The fact Lamine Yamal is just 17-years-old is staggering. The Spanish prodigy has built on his stellar showings in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph with Barcelona, reaping praise from Lionel Messi.

The assist chart leader in La Liga (12) is fearless and a joy to watch.

While the 2025 Ballon d’Or might come too soon for him, given the odds of 8/1 (Ladbrokes), the La Masia graduate will almost certainly win it in the future given his scary potential.