The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony lit up the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on Monday night, where football’s biggest stars gathered to witness the crowning of the world’s best player. ..Continue Reading
Barcelona’s Yamal and Raphinha, both instrumental in their club’s title-winning season, were among the top nominees.
Just before the winner was revealed, Raphinha shared his thoughts on the debate between himself and Yamal, though it was Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele—who entered the night as the favourite, who ultimately took home the prestigious award, ahead of fellow contenders Vitinha, Mohamed Salah, Yamal, and Raphinha.
Speaking to CBS Sports on the red carpet, Raphinha expressed that he feels both he and Yamal are worthy of the accolade, and that he’d be content with either outcome.
He said: “In my opinion we both deserve it a lot, we’d be very happy that the Ballon d’Or goes to Barcelona.
“I know if I win, Lamine is going to be very happy, and if Lamine wins, I’m going to be very happy.
“He deserves it a lot because of the season he put together, for the things he does on the pitch and the brilliance in his eyes. But I don’t know anything, there’s rumours but I don’t know.”
Under the guidance of new head coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona secured a domestic treble last season—winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Throughout the campaign, Raphinha and Yamal were instrumental, with the Brazilian netting 34 goals and providing 25 assists in 57 matches, while the Spanish youngster contributed 18 goals and 15 assists in 55 appearances.
When asked how he would feel if he were to win the award, Raphinha replied: “We need to be very prepared. I’ll be very happy if I win, but just being here is a victory, having this moment with my family and my son.
“Friends of mine fighting for the Ballon d’Or is vert special and I’ll enjoy this special moment”
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