Ballon d’Or 2025: Pedrerol sets clear condition for Mbappé

Could Kylian Mbappé be crowned the Ballon d’Or winner in 2025? That question is once again igniting heated debates across Europe, particularly in Spain where the Frenchman now plays for Real Madrid. And while fans, analysts, and former players have differing opinions, one voice stood out with a firm condition—Josep Pedrerol.

The iconic Spanish journalist and host of El Chiringuito de Jugones, a popular football talk show, believes Mbappé is absolutely in the race. But for Pedrerol, one major achievement still stands between the Frenchman and football’s most prestigious individual award.

Mbappé’s arrival at Real Madrid was one of the most anticipated transfers in modern football history. The 2024/25 season marked his debut in La Liga, and despite immense pressure, he delivered stunning numbers. He scored 31 league goals, finishing as the top scorer in Spain and also clinching the European Golden Boot.

These personal accolades are usually enough to put a player in Ballon d’Or contention, especially when combined with a high-profile move and global influence. However, Real Madrid’s overall season performance adds complexity to Mbappé’s chances. The team failed to secure the La Liga title, which many thought would dent his campaign.

Nonetheless, Los Blancos didn’t walk away empty-handed. Under Carlo Ancelotti, they lifted the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup, reaffirming their dominance in international club competitions. These triumphs offered some consolation after missing out domestically, and Mbappé played a key role in those wins.

Still, Pedrerol isn’t convinced these are enough to secure the Ballon d’Or for the former PSG star. Speaking with his trademark directness, Pedrerol made it clear that one competition will make or break Mbappé’s chances—the 2025 Club World Cup.

“Mbappé, Golden Boot in a difficult season for Real Madrid. I’ll say this clearly: if Real Madrid wins the Club World Cup, then Mbappé will win the Ballon d’Or,” Pedrerol said, delivering his statement with his usual cold, resolute tone.

The Club World Cup, set to take place this summer in the United States, will feature champions from across the globe. Real Madrid, representing Europe, will enter as one of the tournament favorites. Victory there would not only cement their status internationally but also serve as a final stamp on Mbappé’s Ballon d’Or claim.

For Pedrerol, it’s not just about goals or flair—it’s about silverware and global impact. The journalist believes that the Ballon d’Or, while based on individual brilliance, must reflect a player’s ability to lead his team to glory on the biggest stages.

His assertion carries weight. In recent years, voters have leaned heavily toward players whose performances translated into collective success. Lionel Messi’s 2021 and 2023 Ballon d’Or wins came after continental trophies with Argentina and a record-breaking World Cup campaign, respectively.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Mbappé. The 26-year-old is aware of the expectations that come with wearing the famous white shirt of Madrid, especially following in the footsteps of legends like Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s already shown flashes of brilliance, but this summer could define how his first season is remembered.

Mbappé’s situation also highlights the fierce competition for the Ballon d’Or in 2025. Erling Haaland continues to break scoring records at Manchester City, while Jude Bellingham has emerged as a midfield marvel, ironically also at Real Madrid. Vinícius Jr., another Madrid teammate, has delivered standout performances in key matches too.

With such a crowded field, every trophy and every match matters. Mbappé’s edge lies in his visibility and influence—both on and off the pitch. He is not just a footballer but a global icon, and a successful Club World Cup campaign would amplify that status.

Still, football can be unpredictable. A single injury, a stunning performance by another candidate, or a team collapse could swing the balance away from him. The pressure will be immense, but so is the opportunity.

As fans and pundits wait for the Club World Cup to unfold, Pedrerol’s bold statement will continue to echo across sports channels and social media. It’s a challenge to Mbappé: lead Madrid to global glory, and football’s highest individual honor will follow.

For now, all eyes turn to the summer. If Mbappé rises to the occasion, we may look back at Pedrerol’s condition not just as a prediction, but as prophecy fulfilled.

One thing is certain—the Ballon d’Or 2025 race is far from over, and Kylian Mbappé holds the key to his destiny.