FEATURE | The case for PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé winning the Ballon d’Or

Tonight's Ballon d'Or ceremony is generating excitement as PSG forward Ousmane Dembele emerges as a favorite for the prestigious France Football award in Paris. This event not only highlights individual talent in football but also showcases the growing recognition of women's achievements in the sport, making it a significant occasion for fans and players alike.

Spain is buzzing with excitement as the 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony approaches, with many believing that Lamine Yamal is poised to take home the prestigious award. His impressive performances have captured the attention of fans and experts alike, making him a strong contender. This moment is significant not just for Yamal, but also for Spanish football, as it highlights the country's emerging talent on the global stage.

The anticipation for the 2025 Ballon d'Or is building as the ceremony is set to take place this Monday at 3:45 PM Brasília time. Fans and experts alike are eager to see who will be crowned the best player in the world, especially with notable players like Rodri not in the running. This event is significant as it not only recognizes individual talent but also sparks discussions about the future of football and the players who are shaping it.

Excitement is building as the 2025 Ballon d'Or winner will be announced this Monday. To celebrate this prestigious event, the French editorial team at OneFootball engaged in a fun voting game to select their own Ballon d'OF for the upcoming 2024-25 season. This playful initiative not only showcases the team's enthusiasm for football but also highlights the anticipation surrounding one of the sport's most coveted awards.

Scotland's Caroline Weir expressed her surprise and excitement upon seeing her name on the Ballon d'Or nominee list, even admitting she had to verify its authenticity. This recognition highlights her impressive contributions to women's football and underscores the growing visibility and appreciation for female athletes in the sport.

The debate over who is the greatest football player never to have won the Ballon d'Or continues to spark interest among fans. This voting initiative invites enthusiasts to weigh in on their top picks, highlighting the achievements of players who, despite their talent, have not received this prestigious award. It matters because it sheds light on the subjective nature of accolades in sports and celebrates the legacies of these remarkable athletes.

Achraf Hakimi, the talented PSG player, has been ruled out of attending the prestigious Ballon d'Or ceremony this Monday evening. This decision comes after the postponement of Le Classique, which has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. Hakimi's absence is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the team and the impact of scheduling conflicts on player participation in major events.

Real Madrid has decided not to attend the Ballon d'Or gala, a significant event in the football calendar, where top players and coaches are celebrated. This decision, made by club president Florentino Perez, reflects the club's ongoing discontent with the awards process, which they believe does not adequately recognize their contributions to the sport. The absence of such a prestigious club raises questions about the event's relevance and could impact its perception among fans and players alike.

Ousmane Dembélé and Chloe Kelly are top contenders for the men's and women's Ballon d'Or awards in Paris. Dembélé's pivotal role in helping Paris Saint-Germain secure their first Champions League title has made him a standout candidate among nine PSG players nominated for the men's award. This recognition highlights the growing talent in football and the excitement surrounding the awards.

Achraf Hakimi has expressed his dissatisfaction with the recent rescheduling of the classic match between OM and PSG in Ligue 1. This decision has left a sour taste for many fans and players alike, highlighting the ongoing challenges and controversies within French football. Hakimi's comments reflect a broader frustration with how scheduling decisions can impact the integrity and excitement of the sport.

In a recent match against Getafe, Barcelona's head coach Hansi Flick explained his decision to substitute Raphinha at halftime. This move has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about player performance and coaching strategies. Understanding the rationale behind such decisions is crucial as it reflects the team's dynamics and future tactics.

Hugo Ekitike, the new Liverpool striker, is making waves after his €80 million transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt. He acknowledges the competition with teammate Alexander Isak but emphasizes that it's primarily a coaching decision. This dynamic is exciting for Liverpool fans as it showcases the depth of talent in the squad, potentially leading to a stronger performance in the Premier League.

Jordan Davis, the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive tackle, is making waves in the NFL with his impressive combination of size and speed. Weighing in at 336 pounds, he demonstrated his remarkable abilities in a crucial play that helped maintain the team's undefeated season. This not only highlights his individual talent but also underscores the Eagles' strong defensive lineup, making them a formidable contender this season.

In a recent discussion on BBC Radio Solent, Adam Blackmore and former Southampton midfielder Jo Tessem delved into the struggles faced by Southampton fans during a tough match against Hull. The conversation raised important questions about accountability, focusing on whether the players or the manager should take the blame for the team's performance. This matters because it highlights the ongoing challenges within the club and the need for reflection and change to improve future outcomes.

The Green Bay Packers have been impressively dominating their opponents, leading fans to feel optimistic about their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. Analysts are taking notice, suggesting that the Packers' offense could overpower the Browns, who have struggled offensively in recent weeks. This matchup is significant as it could further establish the Packers as a formidable team in the league, boosting their confidence and playoff prospects.

Real Madrid is actively exploring the possibility of signing French defender Dayot Upamecano to strengthen their central defense. This move comes as the team recognizes the urgent need for reinforcements in this critical position. Upamecano's addition could significantly enhance the team's defensive capabilities, making them more competitive in La Liga and European competitions.

Gary Neville praises Gigio Donnarumma's significant impact at Manchester City, emphasizing that despite potential mistakes, he consistently makes the right decisions on the field. This endorsement highlights Donnarumma's growing reputation in the Premier League and suggests that his presence could elevate the team's performance, making it an exciting time for fans and players alike.

Essex captain Tom Westley has signed a two-year contract extension, ensuring he will remain with the club until the end of the 2027 season. This move is significant as it reflects the club's confidence in Westley's leadership and skills, which are crucial for their future success.