By Gwurld4026 
The 2025 Ballon d’Or: Salah’s Dominance According to Ferdinand
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has recently expressed that Mohamed Salah is currently leading the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Salah has been in exceptional form this season, netting 30 goals and providing 22 assists in 39 appearances for Liverpool, propelling them to the top of the Premier League and into the Champions League knockout stages.
Ferdinand emphasized that while Salah is the standout candidate at this moment, the outcome of the Champions League could significantly influence the Ballon d’Or decision. He noted that pivotal performances in the latter stages of the tournament often sway voters, suggesting that other players, such as Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham, could emerge as strong contenders depending on their contributions in crucial matches.
Salah’s remarkable season has not only showcased his goal-scoring prowess but also his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates. He has played a crucial role in the development of players like Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz, who are also enjoying standout seasons. Despite his individual success, Salah remains focused on collective achievements, aiming to secure both the Premier League and Champions League titles with Liverpool.
The debate surrounding Salah’s Ballon d’Or candidacy has also sparked discussions about the significance of international tournaments. Jamie Carragher faced criticism for downplaying the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in relation to Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances, leading to backlash from figures like Rio Ferdinand and John Obi Mikel. Carragher later acknowledged his “clumsy” language and reiterated his respect for all tournaments.