Lionel Messi Congratulates Ousmane Dembele on Ballon d’Or Win

Lionel Messi has congratulated his former Barcelona teammate Ousmane Dembele after the French winger won the Ballon d’Or on Monday night in Paris.

Dembele beat Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal to the award after enjoying the best season of his career, leading Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to a historic treble in the 2024/25 season.

A Season to Remember

The 28-year-old played a key role as PSG won Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League title.

He ended the season with 35 goals and 16 assists, making him one of the top performers in world football. His incredible form saw him beat other big names, including Lamine Yamal, to the prestigious Golden Ball.

Dembele was presented with the award at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, where many of football’s biggest stars gathered for the 69th edition of the Ballon d’Or ceremony.

Messi’s Heartfelt Message

Messi, who played with Dembele at Barcelona from 2017 to 2021, sent him a warm message on Instagram after the event.

“Grande Ous !!! Congratulations I’m so happy for you. You deserve it,” Messi wrote.

Dembele’s Injury Update

Dembele is currently recovering from an injury he picked up during the international break. He was given permission to attend the awards ceremony in Paris and missed PSG’s rescheduled league match against Marseille.

The French star is now hoping to return in time for PSG’s next Ligue 1 match against Auxerre on Saturday.