The football world will turn its attention to the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on Monday night as the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony takes centre stage.
The award, regarded as the highest individual honour in the game, will crown the players and coaches judged to have had the most outstanding seasons.
Among the frontrunners for the men’s prize is Ousmane Dembélé, whose blistering year with Paris Saint-Germain and France has put him among the favourites.
He faces fierce competition from Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid, Manchester City’s goal machine Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé, whose switch to Madrid has not slowed his star power.
From Barcelona, teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, La Liga’s Player of the Season, have also staked strong claims.
Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s talisman, remains Africa’s biggest hope, thanks to another season of goals and leadership.
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Nigeria will also be proudly represented on the global stage. Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been nominated for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, following a stellar year with Paris FC and her commanding displays for Nigeria, particularly at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where she was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Her penalty-saving prowess and consistency put her firmly in contention, though competition from Europe’s top shot-stoppers will be tough.
In addition, Justine Madugu, head coach of the Super Falcons, has been shortlisted for the Best Women’s Coach award after guiding Nigeria to their historic 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.
His tactical intelligence and leadership earned widespread praise, placing him among the top contenders despite facing rivals who have won global and club honours.
With Nigerians breaking into the conversation alongside some of the world’s brightest stars, anticipation is high that the 2025 Ballon d’Or could be a landmark night not just for global football, but also for African football as well.