As the 2025 Ballon d’Or race intensifies, two standout performers have emerged: FC Barcelona’s Raphinha and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. Both have delivered exceptional performances this season, but recent developments, particularly in the UEFA Champions League, have positioned Raphinha as the leading contender for football’s most prestigious individual accolade.
Raphinha’s Stellar Champions League Campaign
Raphinha has been instrumental in Barcelona’s impressive Champions League run. In the recent Round of 16 second-leg match against Benfica, he scored twice, propelling his team to a 3-1 victory and securing their spot in the quarter-finals with a 4-1 aggregate score. This performance not only showcased his scoring prowess but also highlighted his ability to deliver in crucial moments. His second goal in that match elevated him to the status of the highest-scoring Brazilian in a single Champions League season, with 11 goals to his name.
Throughout the 2024/25 Champions League season, Raphinha has amassed 11 goals and 6 assists, underscoring his dual threat as both a scorer and creator. His contributions have been pivotal in Barcelona’s quest for European glory, and his consistent performances have solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s elite forwards.
Mohamed Salah’s Champions League Setback
Mohamed Salah, despite a remarkable season, faced a significant setback in his Ballon d’Or aspirations with Liverpool’s elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In the Round of 16, Liverpool struggled to assert dominance, and their exit from the competition has inevitably impacted Salah’s visibility on the European stage
Prior to the elimination, Salah had been in scintillating form, with 30 goals and 22 assists across all competitions. However, the early Champions League exit means he will miss out on further opportunities to showcase his talents on one of the most prominent platforms, potentially diminishing his Ballon d’Or prospects.
Comparative Season Statistics
When evaluating their overall contributions this season, both players boast impressive numbers:
| Player | Goals | Assists | Total Goal Involvements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raphinha | 27 | 19 | 46 |
| Mohamed Salah | 32 | 22 | 54 |
While Salah leads in total goal involvements, Raphinha’s impact, especially in the Champions League, has been more pronounced in recent fixtures. His ability to influence high-stakes matches has been a cornerstone of Barcelona’s success this season.
The Ballon d’Or often rewards players who excel individually and whose teams achieve significant success, particularly in elite competitions like the Champions League. With Barcelona advancing to the quarter-finals and Liverpool’s journey halted, Raphinha’s prospects have been bolstered. His record-breaking performances and the potential for further achievements in the tournament position him favorably in the eyes of voters.
