Ferdinand: One player is leading the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or

The race for the 2025 Ballon d'Or is heating up - and Rio Ferdinand says there's just ONE clear frontrunner right now!

March 5, 2025
4:18 pm

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has shared his top pick for the 2025 Ballon d’Or — and right now, it’s all about one lad.

Last year, Manchester City’s Rodri snagged the prestigious award in a bit of a controversial win, especially since Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony after Vinicius Jr. came in second. But the 2025 race is already heating up!

This year, Vinicius Jr. is expected to be in the mix again, along with his new Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappe, who’s quickly settling in at the Bernabeu. Jude Bellingham, who took third place in 2024, is also looking to climb higher, while Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal and the in-form Raphinha are making their marks in La Liga.

But according to Ferdinand, the clear favorite right now is Liverpool’s standout star, Mo Salah. He’s been on fire this season, playing a key role in Liverpool’s quest for Premier League glory. At 32, he just keeps getting better, racking up an impressive 30 goals and 22 assists across all competitions.

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“At this moment, I don’t think there’s anyone else on the podium with him,” Ferdinand said before Liverpool’s Champions League clash with PSG.

However, the former Manchester United and England star knows the Ballon d’Or race can change fast — especially with the Champions League knockout stages coming up.

“With the Champions League, as you get through the knockout rounds, someone can really shine and take the spotlight. It all comes down to those big game moments,” Ferdinand added.

“You could throw in [Ousmane] Dembele if PSG goes far. [Kylian] Mbappe will be in the mix, along with Vinicius [Junior] and [Jude] Bellingham.

“Whoever keeps their status and shows up in the semi-finals and finals will win it. If Liverpool takes the Champions League, I’m sure he’ll play a huge part.”

With the season heating up and the Champions League knockout rounds on the horizon, all eyes are on Liverpool’s star man. Can he keep up his amazing form and snag the most coveted individual prize in world football?