As the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches in Paris, a former winner has publicly endorsed a Barcelona sensation to claim the prize.
Two FC Barcelona stars and a Paris Saint-Germain forward are among the leading contenders, while another Barcelona nominee has chosen to skip the event to focus on the club’s packed schedule.
The debate over the winner has drawn opinions from legends and current stars alike, with one prominent figure publicly sharing his choice after a recent Premier League clash.
That figure is Manchester City’s Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d’Or recipient, who voiced his support for Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal following City’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal on September 21, 2025.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish midfielder expressed his desire for the award to remain in Spanish hands, naming Yamal and teammate Pedri as potential winners.
“This year I’ll watch it on TV, but hopefully a teammate wins it — Lamine, Pedri, whoever it may be,” Rodri said.
He emphasized the significance of a Yamal victory, noting it would reflect the golden era of Spanish football.
A win for the 18-year-old would mark the first time Spain has produced consecutive Ballon d’Or winners, following Rodri’s 2024 triumph.
Yamal, a standout for Barcelona and Spain, is a frontrunner alongside teammate Raphinha and PSG’s Ousmane Dembele.
Pedri, also nominated, is considered a long shot and has prioritized club commitments over attending the ceremony.
Rodri’s endorsement carries weight, given his status as the reigning winner and a key figure in Spain’s recent successes.
He highlighted the strength of the current Spanish generation, stating, “It would be amazing, it would say a lot about the moment Spanish football is living.”
As the ceremony looms, Yamal’s meteoric rise, reminiscent of Ansu Fati’s early promise, positions him as a favorite.
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