“Give It to a Champions League Winner” – Cristiano Ronaldo Weighs In on Ballon d’Or Debate
Cristiano Ronaldo believes team success should influence Ballon d’Or selection
Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited the Ballon d’Or debate, insisting the award should go to a player whose team has lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s Nations League final against Spain, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner argued that team achievements should weigh heavily in deciding who takes home football’s most coveted individual prize.
“In my opinion, whoever wins it should be on a team that has won trophies. The Ballon d’Or winner should be in a team that has won the Champions League,” Ronaldo stated, as reported by TheScore.
Yamal vs. Dembele: A Heated Debate
Ronaldo’s remarks come at a time when the football world is split between two rising stars—Spain’s Lamine Yamal and France’s Ousmane Dembele.
Dembele, who helped Paris Saint-Germain dominate Inter Milan 5-0 in the Champions League final, has been touted by many, including France manager Didier Deschamps, as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or. His consistent form throughout the season and impact in Europe’s top club competition have earned him widespread praise.
On the other hand, 17-year-old Lamine Yamal is making history with Spain, dazzling in their dramatic 5-4 win over France in the Nations League semi-finals. Should Yamal win the Ballon d’Or, he would become the youngest recipient of the award—a feat that would be historic but controversial.
Ronaldo’s Take Reflects Broader Sentiment
Ronaldo’s view—that individual brilliance should be aligned with collective success—mirrors a growing sentiment among football fans and analysts. While moments of individual magic can define a season, many argue that the Ballon d’Or should ultimately reflect the highest level of consistent, team-oriented performance.
A Ballon d’Or Race with Big Implications
As the 2025 Ballon d’Or race heats up, Ronaldo’s comments add a layer of gravitas to the discussion. With both Dembele and Yamal delivering outstanding performances for club and country, the final decision will likely stir debate no matter the outcome.
Whoever wins, it’s clear that this year’s Ballon d’Or will be one of the most closely watched and hotly contested in recent memory.
Also Read: Breaking – Rodri wins Ballon d’Or 2024: Man City midfielder pips Vinicius Junior to crown
