The 2024-2025 Ligue 1 season promises to be another thrilling campaign, filled with exciting talent and fierce competition. Predicting the Ballon d'Or contenders this early is a challenging task, as form and injuries can dramatically shift the landscape. However, based on current form and potential, we can highlight some players likely to be in the conversation come award season.
Potential Front-Runners
Several players stand out as potential front-runners for the Ballon d'Or, assuming they maintain their current level of performance and avoid significant setbacks.
Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Mbappé remains a constant threat. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and overall playmaking ability make him a perennial Ballon d'Or contender. A strong Champions League run with PSG, combined with a prolific Ligue 1 season, would solidify his position as a leading candidate. His consistency and impact on big games are key factors in his favor.
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF - potential Ligue 1 return)
While currently playing in MLS, a hypothetical return to Ligue 1 for Messi would immediately catapult him into the Ballon d'Or conversation. His proven track record speaks for itself. However, a return depends on numerous factors, making this a highly speculative inclusion.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City - potential Ligue 1 transfer)
Similar to Messi, Haaland's presence in Ligue 1 is purely speculative at this stage. A move to a French club would instantly make him a serious contender, given his incredible goalscoring prowess. However, his continued success in the Premier League and Champions League with Manchester City makes a transfer far from certain.
Strong Contenders: The Next Tier
Beyond the potential front-runners, a number of other players could realistically challenge for a high placement in the Ballon d'Or voting.
Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Osimhen's explosive season with Napoli cemented his place amongst Europe's elite strikers. A move to a Ligue 1 club, or continued dominance in Serie A, will keep him in the conversation. His power, pace, and clinical finishing make him a formidable force.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid - potential Ligue 1 transfer)
Another player whose Ligue 1 presence is entirely hypothetical, Bellingham's transfer to Real Madrid already positions him for a Ballon d'Or nomination in the future. A potential move to a French club would greatly increase his chances. His midfield dominance and influence on games are already proving invaluable.
Dark Horses: Players to Watch
Several other players possess the talent to make a significant impact and potentially enter the Ballon d'Or discussion:
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Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid): A strong defensive midfielder, his role in Real Madrid's success and a potential move to Ligue 1 could propel him into the conversation.
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Randal Kolo Muani (Eintracht Frankfurt): A highly-rated forward, his next move could shape his Ballon d'Or ambitions. A successful Ligue 1 campaign could elevate his profile considerably.
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Any emerging talent: Ligue 1 is known for developing young stars. It is very possible a breakout player from the 2024-2025 season could surprise many and become a serious contender.
Conclusion: Uncertainty and Excitement
Predicting the Ballon d'Or winners so far in advance is inherently difficult. This list is based on current form and potential, and the actual contenders might differ significantly based on individual performances and team success throughout the season. The 2024-2025 Ligue 1 season promises to be a captivating one, with plenty of opportunities for players to etch their names into Ballon d'Or history. The unpredictability adds to the excitement, making it a season football fans worldwide will eagerly anticipate.
