Barcelona and Barcelona Femeni players feature in Ballon d’Or nominations

Both the men’s and women’s Barcelona teams feature prominently in the Ballon d’Or nominations, following their domestic treble-winning seasons, despite falling short in European competitions.

The 30-player shortlist for the prestigious award has been announced. Barcelona’s men’s team boasts four nominees for the main prize, while the women’s team leads the way with seven nominations. The list includes several standout Spanish and English players, many of whom featured in the final of the Women’s Euro 2025 tournament.

On the men's side, Hansi Flick’s first season in charge was a resounding success, culminating in a domestic treble. The club's attacking prowess is particularly well-represented in the nominations, with Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Pedri, and Robert Lewandowski all making the shortlist. 

Yamal, a strong contender for the Kopa Trophy for the second year running, was a revelation last season. Raphinha also emerges as a frontrunner after an outstanding campaign. The pair, along with Ousmane Dembélé, are seen as the leading candidates for the Ballon d’Or, with the French winger, now a Champions League winner and former Barcelona star, considered the slight favourite. 

Robert Lewandowski, who many believe was unfairly denied the award in 2021 when he lost to Lionel Messi, appears unlikely to win this time around. Meanwhile, Pedri’s form means he’s not considered a serious contender for the prize this year.

The FC Barcelona Femení team, however, continues to set the standard for the sport. Their incredible season saw them secure a domestic treble, though they fell just short of a Champions League title, losing to Arsenal in the final. Their dominance is reflected in the numerous nominations, including Aitana Bonmatí, Caroline Graham Hansen, Patri Guijarro, Ewa Pajor, Clàudia Pina, and Alexia Putellas. 

Bonmatí, the reigning Ballon d'Or winner, is once again among the favorites after another outstanding season, where she provided 12 goals and 6 assists in the Liga F campaign. She could make history as the first woman to win the award three years in a row as shes is truly seen as the’best women football player in the world.’ Teammates Alexia Putellas and Claudia Pina are also strong contenders following dominant campaigns.

England and Arsenal stars Alessia Russo and Leah Williamson are seen as Bonmatí’s main challengers, having played key roles in their country’s victories in the two major finals of the summer.

Even if the Barcelona nominees fall short of winning the prestigious trophy, they are almost certain to attend the ceremony and accept the outcome with grace.