Casemiro makes 2025 Ballon d’Or surprise prediction – might not please Man Utd fans

Throughout the years, he’s shared the pitch with five Ballon d’Or winners, with Cristiano Ronaldo being the most prominent among them.

Casemiro has also had brief stints on the international scene with legends like Ronaldinho and Kaka, and formed formidable partnerships with Luka Modric and Karim Benzema during his tenure at Real Madrid.

Though he’s never claimed the Ballon d’Or himself, Casemiro possesses a deep understanding of the qualities required to earn football’s highest individual accolade.

When asked to name his standout performer—despite strong seasons from Ousmane Dembele and rising star Lamine Yamal—Casemiro chose to spotlight Liverpool’s talisman, Mohamed Salah.

“For me, it’s very difficult. But in my opinion, in this moment for me, Salah. He’s the best player with his impact in this game.

“He scores so much, assists so much. I think Liverpool didn’t win this trophy, for example the Champions League or another trophy, because he dropped off a little in the second part of the season.

“But for me, the most balanced in the season is Salah,” Casemiro said.