Surprise Ballon D'Or Nominations: Dembélé And Kelly In The Running

David

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Post on Aug 09, 2025

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Surprise Ballon d'Or Nominations: Dembélé and Kelly in the Running

The football world is abuzz with surprise! This year's Ballon d'Or nominations have thrown a few curveballs, with unexpected inclusions shaking up the predicted contenders. While established stars like Messi and Haaland are unsurprisingly in the running, the nominations of Ousmane Dembélé and Beth Mead have sent shockwaves through the footballing community. This unexpected turn of events highlights the unpredictable nature of the prestigious award and sparks exciting discussions about the evolving landscape of football excellence.

Dembélé's Resurgence: A Cinderella Story?

Ousmane Dembélé's inclusion in the men's Ballon d'Or nominations is perhaps the biggest surprise. After a somewhat tumultuous career marked by injury setbacks and inconsistent performances, the French winger experienced a remarkable resurgence this past season with FC Barcelona. His electrifying pace, skillful dribbling, and crucial assists played a pivotal role in Barcelona's La Liga triumph. His consistent high-level performances throughout the season, culminating in key contributions in crucial matches, seemingly swayed the voters. This nomination serves as a testament to his dedication, resilience, and the power of a career comeback.

• Key stats: While goals weren't his primary contribution this season, Dembélé's assist tally and overall impact on Barcelona's attacking play were undeniable, making him a valuable asset and a worthy contender in the Ballon d'Or conversation. Analysts are highlighting his key passes, chances created, and overall influence on the game as key factors in his nomination.

Beth Mead's Historic Achievement:

On the women's side, Beth Mead’s nomination feels less surprising considering her exceptional year. The Arsenal forward was instrumental in England’s triumphant UEFA Women's Euro 2022 campaign, claiming both the Golden Boot and the Player of the Tournament awards. Her goals and overall performances throughout the tournament cemented her place as one of the most exciting and effective players in women's football. This nomination is a significant step forward in recognizing the growing talent and achievements in women's football.

• Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament: Mead's incredible performance in the Euros put her firmly in the spotlight. Her contributions extended beyond just scoring goals; she was a creative force, consistently providing assists and demonstrating exceptional teamwork.

Beyond the Headlines: A Broader Conversation

The inclusion of Dembélé and Mead in the Ballon d'Or nominations sparks a vital discussion. It highlights the evolving criteria for judging football excellence, moving beyond simply goals scored to encompass overall impact, contribution to team success, and consistent high-level performance throughout a season. It also underscores the increasing recognition and appreciation of women's football.

This year's nominations challenge the traditional narratives surrounding the award. It emphasizes that perseverance, a crucial role in a successful team, and exceptional performances in major tournaments can all contribute to a player’s consideration for this prestigious prize. The excitement surrounding these unexpected nominations has already created a buzz and anticipation for the ceremony.

Who will win? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear: this year's Ballon d'Or promises to be unforgettable.

(This article will be updated as the awards ceremony approaches with further analysis and insights.)