Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or Win Sparks Debate Among Football Icons

Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or win has ignited passionate discussions in the football world. During the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Dembele was crowned the best player globally, surpassing emerging talent Lamine Yamal and established star Kylian Mbappe. Former Real Madrid player Alvaro Benito’s reaction to Dembele’s triumph has added fuel to an already heated debate.

Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or Triumph: A Surprise to Many

Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or win was met with a mixture of admiration and skepticism. Many fans and experts had anticipated a fierce competition between Paris Saint-Germain forward Dembele, Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal, and superstar Kylian Mbappe. Ultimately, Dembele emerged victorious, a decision that left part of the footballing community divided.

Alvaro Benito Comments on Dembele’s Recognition

Benito, a former Real Madrid midfielder and football pundit, shared his candid thoughts about the award outcome. While he acknowledged Dembele’s exceptional season with PSG, he pointed out that Lamine Yamal brought a unique flair and excitement to the game, describing the youngster as “more attractive” in style. Furthermore, Benito asserted that Kylian Mbappe continues to be the superior all-around player, despite Dembele’s recent achievements.

“I can understand why Ousmane Dembele was selected, given his form and influence at PSG,” Benito remarked. “But Lamine Yamal is mesmerizing to watch, and Mbappe still offers more overall quality. The journalists’ decision is surprising.”

Mixed Feelings About the Ballon d’Or Rankings

Benito didn’t stop at his analysis of the top three contenders. He openly questioned the placement of Barcelona’s Pedri, who finished lower in the final rankings than many had predicted. In Benito’s view, Pedri’s midfield prowess deserved greater recognition, emphasizing the subjectivity and controversy that often surround Ballon d’Or voting.

The Role of Journalists in Ballon d’Or Voting

The Ballon d’Or has long relied on votes from international journalists, who assess candidates based on their performances throughout the season. This method, however, frequently attracts criticism. According to Benito, the selection process this year highlighted the inconsistencies and personal biases that can influence such prestigious awards. He called for more transparency and a potential re-evaluation of the voting procedure to ensure that deserving talents are properly acknowledged.

Dembele’s Impact at PSG and National Level

Ousmane Dembele’s 2024-2025 season at Paris Saint-Germain was nothing short of remarkable. His speed, creativity, and vision made him a pivotal figure in both domestic and international competitions. Dembele’s contributions helped PSG secure crucial victories, solidifying his status as one of the most influential wingers in football today.

The Rising Stars: Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe

Despite Dembele’s achievement, the spotlight on Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe remains bright. Yamal’s skillful dribbling and fearless approach have earned him comparisons to legendary players at a remarkably young age. Meanwhile, Mbappe continues to demonstrate his world-class ability, consistently performing at the highest level for both club and country.

Looking to the Future: Young Talents and Evolving Debates

The debate around the Ballon d’Or highlights the depth of talent in modern football. As players like Dembele, Yamal, and Mbappe push boundaries, the criteria and selection process for awards such as the Ballon d’Or will likely undergo further scrutiny. Their rivalry promises more thrilling seasons ahead, with fans and experts alike eager to see how the narrative unfolds.

Opinion: Recognizing Excellence and Embracing Debate

In my view, Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or win is a testament to his resilience and growth as a player. While debates over “deserving winners” will always persist, it is the ongoing competition among elite talents like Dembele, Yamal, and Mbappe that elevates the sport. For the latest updates on football’s biggest stories and more in-depth analysis, visit for more news.