PSG Star Poised for Ballon d’Or Glory After Historic Season

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé is rapidly emerging as the frontrunner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, thanks to his instrumental role in PSG’s historic treble-winning campaign. As the French champions prepare to face Real Madrid in the Club World Cup semi-final on Wednesday at New York’s MetLife Stadium, Dembélé has the chance to cap off a near-perfect season with a potential quadruple.

The semi-final marks a major milestone for both the club and the player. Having already lifted the Champions League, Ligue 1, and Coupe de France, PSG now seeks its first-ever Club World Cup title—with Dembélé at the center of their charge.

A Defining Season for Dembélé

Since arriving from Barcelona in 2023, Dembélé, now 28, has evolved into the team’s attacking spearhead, stepping up following the departure of Kylian Mbappé last summer. His form this season has been widely described as career-defining, with his explosive pace, creativity, and finishing helping PSG finally claim European glory.

With Mbappé’s move away from Paris freeing up space in the squad, Dembélé has seized the moment. Analysts and fans alike credit his consistency, leadership, and dazzling performances as a driving force behind PSG’s unprecedented success.

Old Friends, New Rivals: Dembélé vs Mbappé

The upcoming semi-final pits Dembélé against a familiar face—his close friend and former teammate, Kylian Mbappé, who now dons the white shirt of Real Madrid. The match serves as a narrative-rich reunion between two of football’s most dynamic talents, each determined to lead their side to glory.

Mbappé, PSG’s all-time leading scorer with 256 goals, left a powerful legacy in Paris. Yet, it’s only in the post-Mbappé era that the club finally reached the pinnacle of European football. Dembélé’s emergence in that void has raised eyebrows and admiration in equal measure.

All Eyes on the MetLife Stadium

The MetLife Stadium in New York will provide the backdrop for this high-stakes semi-final—a clash not only between European giants but also between two players intertwined by friendship, rivalry, and history.

Victory for PSG would not only push them closer to a first Club World Cup title but would also strengthen Dembélé’s claim to being the best player in the world in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is Ousmane Dembélé a top contender for the Ballon d’Or?
Dembélé helped PSG win the Champions League, Ligue 1, and Coupe de France this season. His individual performances have been consistently outstanding, making him a leading Ballon d’Or candidate.

2. What is the significance of the upcoming Club World Cup semi-final?
It’s a chance for PSG to win their first-ever Club World Cup and complete a historic quadruple. The match also features a star-studded face-off between Dembélé and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé.

3. When and where is the semi-final taking place?
The match is scheduled for Wednesday at the MetLife Stadium in New York, USA.

4. How has Dembélé performed since Mbappé’s departure?
With Mbappé leaving last summer, Dembélé has flourished in a leading role, showcasing his full range of skills and helping PSG finally conquer Europe.

5. Has PSG ever won the Club World Cup before?
No, this would be PSG’s first Club World Cup title if they go on to win the tournament.

6. What club does Kylian Mbappé currently play for?
Mbappé currently plays for Real Madrid, having left Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024.