I don't think he can win it — Ex-Chelsea star snubs Dembele, picks Ballon d'Or winner

Dembele is the favourite to take home the prestigious Ballon d'Or, but must compete for the award with Barcelona duo Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.

Ex-Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has weighed in with his thoughts on the destination of this year's award.

Speaking to ESPN, the ex-Premier League star expressed doubt about Dembélé's chances, stating,

“I don’t think Dembele will win the Ballon d’Or. I think Lamine Yamal will win it.”

He believes the 17-year-old Barcelona talent is better positioned to claim the prestigious award, despite Dembélé's role in PSG's quadruple triumph during the 2024-25 season.

Dembélé outperformed the Barcelona star in goals, scoring 33 times and providing 15 assists in 49 matches for PSG in 2024-25.

In contrast, Yamal tallied 18 goals and delivered 25 assists in 55 games for Barcelona during the same season. Yamal’s agent, Jorge Mendes, shares Leboeuf’s confidence, declaring, “He’s been the best in the world this season and that’s clear, so Ballon d’Or would be deserved.”