Paris Saint-Germain’s 2024/2025 campaign ended on a sour note with a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Club World Cup final. Despite the crushing loss at MetLife Stadium, PSG’s season was far from a failure. In fact, it was one of the most successful in the club’s history — and at the heart of it all stood Ousmane Dembele.
The French winger delivered an exceptional season, amassing 35 goals and 16 assists across 53 matches in all competitions. His speed, flair, and technical brilliance were pivotal to PSG’s historic treble-winning season, including a triumphant UEFA Champions League run.
As a result, Dembele has emerged as one of the strongest candidates for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, the most prestigious individual accolade in world football.
Gael Clichy Backs Dembele for Ballon d’Or Glory
Support for Dembele’s Ballon d’Or bid has been growing, and among the loudest voices is former French international Gael Clichy. Speaking during a live broadcast with RMC Sport, Clichy made it clear that Dembele’s name deserves to be in serious contention.
“The Ballon d’Or recognizes decisive players, and individual stats have always played a big part — just look at what Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi did for years,” said Clichy. “Ousmane has produced incredible numbers this season: 35 goals and 16 assists in just 52 games.”
But Clichy didn’t stop at statistics. He emphasized that Dembele’s impact extends far beyond the score sheet. His pressing, defensive commitment, and ability to control the tempo of a match make him one of the most complete players in world football today.
“He contributes with and without the ball,” Clichy continued. “It’s not just about goals and assists. He also helps PSG in transition and pressing phases. These are details voters often overlook, but they’re what make him unique.”
Yamal vs. Dembele: A Race of Styles and Legacies
Dembele’s closest rival for the Ballon d’Or appears to be Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation who has taken the football world by storm. The 17-year-old ended the season with 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 appearances, helping Barcelona secure a domestic treble: La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
While Yamal brings flair and raw potential, Clichy believes Dembele holds the edge in terms of all-around contribution.
“Thierry Henry and I both agree — Dembele is the most complete player right now,” Clichy stated. “He can score, create, disrupt defenses, and defend when needed. His work rate and intelligence off the ball are rarely seen in players with such technical talent.”
Indeed, Dembele’s blend of experience, tactical maturity, and explosive brilliance has transformed him into a leader on the pitch — a far cry from the inconsistent talent of his early years.
Media Narrative and the Ballon d’Or Politics
While stats and silverware are key factors, the Ballon d’Or has often been influenced by narratives pushed by media and global fan sentiment. In that respect, Yamal may have an edge, thanks to his rapid rise and record-breaking feats at such a young age.
Nonetheless, Dembele’s consistency over the entire season, his central role in PSG’s Champions League triumph, and his ability to dominate in the biggest games — including wins over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid — make a compelling case.
Even without a World Cup or Euros this year, club performance alone should carry significant weight in the 2025 Ballon d’Or vote.
A Career-Best Season Deserves Recognition
At 28 years old, Ousmane Dembele may be playing the best football of his career. Injuries are no longer holding him back, and his maturity has been instrumental in PSG’s most successful campaign in recent memory.
He wasn’t just a star among stars — he was the driving force behind their treble, outperforming even some of the world’s most expensive and hyped attackers.
Now, as the Ballon d’Or discussion heats up, all eyes are on whether football’s top honor will finally recognize Dembele’s evolution from a dazzling talent into a world-class champion.
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