Surprising Omissions from the 2025 Ballon d’Or Shortlist
The recent announcement of the 2025 Ballon d’Or shortlist has sparked significant debate, especially after the inclusion of Vinicius Junior. Many fans and analysts believe that some players who delivered exceptional performances were overlooked in favor of others. This has led to widespread discussions on social media, with several high-profile names feeling disgruntled.
Vinicius Junior, known for his flair and speed, was included in the shortlist despite a dip in form last season. His previous year's runner-up finish to Rodri had prompted him to express frustration, stating, “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.” However, Real Madrid struggled during the 2024-25 season, losing key competitions and facing challenges in the Champions League.
Jamal Musiala – A Star Unseen
One of the most glaring omissions is Jamal Musiala. The German international had an outstanding 2024-25 campaign, which ended tragically at the Club World Cup. Musiala ranked ninth in average WhoScored match ratings across Europe’s top leagues and was the highest-rated player not to make the shortlist. While Bayern Munich's Michael Olise and Harry Kane earned their spots, Musiala's contributions were equally impressive. He played a pivotal role in Bayern's Bundesliga title victory and arguably had a better season than both Vinicius and Jude Bellingham.
Bradley Barcola – A Key Player Overlooked
Another player who missed out is Bradley Barcola. The French forward was one of only six players to score 14 goals and provide 10 assists in the 2024-25 season. Despite his performance, he was omitted from the shortlist. Barcola was instrumental in Luis Enrique’s treble-winning PSG team, contributing significantly to their success. Although he didn’t start the Champions League final, he made an impact off the bench, providing crucial assists. His performance against Real Madrid in the Club World Cup further highlighted his value.
Marquinhos – A Veteran Left Out
Marquinhos, the long-serving captain of Paris Saint-Germain, also felt the sting of exclusion. The shortlist included several PSG players, but the veteran center-back was notably absent. Despite not being a headline-maker, Marquinhos provided consistent solid performances throughout PSG’s historic campaign. His season was arguably better than that of Vinicius, yet he remains unacknowledged.
Alexander Isak – A Rising Star
Alexander Isak, the Newcastle United striker, had a remarkable 2024-25 season, leading his team to Champions League qualification with 23 Premier League goals. His performance in the League Cup final added to his credentials. However, he was not included in the shortlist, raising questions about the criteria used for selection.
Ryan Gravenberch – A Hidden Gem
Ryan Gravenberch, another Liverpool midfielder, was overlooked despite his standout performances. The 23-year-old was a revelation under Arne Slot, proving to be a masterstroke in his position. His consistency and impact on the field were undeniable, making his omission all the more surprising.
Omar Marmoush – A Goal Machine
Omar Marmoush, who scored 22 goals and provided nine assists for Eintracht Frankfurt and Manchester City, was also left out. His performance was among the best in Europe, yet he did not receive the recognition he deserved.
Moises Caicedo – A Defensive Midfielder
Moises Caicedo, widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, was another notable omission. His performances for Chelsea were exceptional, helping them qualify for the Champions League. Despite his contributions, he was not included in the shortlist, raising concerns about the selection process.
These omissions highlight the subjective nature of the Ballon d’Or selection, with many questioning the criteria used to determine the finalists. As the debate continues, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the final results will unfold.