Ronaldinho Could Present 2025 Ballon d’Or as Dembélé and Yamal Battle for Top Prize

Football fans across the world are getting ready for the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, which will take place on Monday, September 22, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

Reports say that Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho is expected to present the award, exactly 20 years after he won it himself in 2005. The news hasn’t been confirmed yet, but several trusted sources, including COPE and Mundo Deportivo, say it’s very likely.

This year’s Ballon d’Or battle is mainly between Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal — two exciting attackers from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Barcelona, the same clubs where Ronaldinho became a global superstar.

Lamine Yamal – The Young Star

At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has had an amazing season with Barcelona. He helped his team win the treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa).

His numbers are impressive:

• 18 goals

• 21 assists

• Best Under-23 Player in La Liga

• Youngest player to score in El Clásico

• Youngest to reach 100 games for Barcelona

• Also helped Spain win the European Championship

Many people believe he has what it takes to win the Ballon d’Or, even though he’s so young.

Ousmane Dembélé – The Comeback King

On the other side, Ousmane Dembélé has been in the best form of his career at PSG under manager Luis Enrique.

In the 2024/25 season, he helped PSG win a historic treble — Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League.

His stats are also very strong:

• 32 goals

• 8 assists

• A constant threat in big games

Ronaldinho even praised Dembélé, saying:

“He has a bit of Brazilian style – he dribbles, creates, and surprises you.”

PSG sporting director Luis Campos said:

“If his name was Messi or Ronaldo, this wouldn’t even be a debate.”

Who Will Win?

The race is very close.

• Dembélé has the trophies and stats.

• Yamal has the youth, creativity, and excitement of a future star.

The final choice will be made by the Ballon d’Or voters — but if Ronaldinho presents the award, it will be a special moment, linking football’s past with its future.