Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.

However, Vinicius is not even the standout player at La Liga champions Real Madrid anymore. That honor belongs to Kylian Mbappe, who has taken Spain by storm after a slow start. But even the French superstar cannot compare to Mohamed Salah’s electrifying form across Europe.

Salah’s Dominance in Europe

No player in Europe comes close to Salah’s brilliance this season. The Egyptian forward has already amassed 25 goals and 17 assists in just 28 matches across all competitions. His outstanding performances have propelled Liverpool to the top of the Premier League, where they currently sit 13 points clear, edging closer to their record-equalling 20th title.

Additionally, Salah played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Champions League campaign, helping them finish at the top of their group as they chase yet another European crown. Given his current form, it is no surprise that Salah has emerged as the leading contender for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Why Haven’t More African Players Won the Ballon d’Or?

Shockingly, only one African player—Liberia’s George Weah in 1995—has ever won the Ballon d’Or. This raises the question: why has no African player won the award in the past 30 years?

Renowned writer JJ Omojuwa sheds light on this:

“Sincerely speaking, the only African players who truly deserved it after President George Weah were Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba. But their prime coincided with the dominant eras of Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and before them, Zidane, Ronaldinho, and the original Ronaldo.”

Omojuwa also pointed out that Ballon d’Or winners often depend on the era in which they play.

“Rodri won it last year. But if you placed him in the peak era of those legends I mentioned, he wouldn’t have even been close to winning.”

Ballon d’Or Selection Criteria

France Football, the organizers of the prestigious award, outlined the criteria for choosing winners:

1. Individual performances showcase decisive and impressive qualities.
2. Team success: contributing significantly to major achievements.
3. Class and fair play—upholding professionalism and sportsmanship.

Based on these criteria, Salah currently stands head and shoulders above the competition.

Can Anything Stop Salah from Winning the Ballon d’Or?

The biggest potential obstacle to Salah lifting the Ballon d’Or could be the timing of the award. Omojuwa explains:

“If the awards take place before AFCON, then Salah’s chances depend on Liverpool at least making the UCL semifinals and avoiding a poor start to the 2025/26 season. Voters are often influenced by recency bias, so he must maintain his performances until closer to the award date.”

Is AFCON a major tournament?

The Ballon d’Or debate took another turn this week after Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher controversially claimed that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is not a major tournament. His remarks sparked backlash from two former Super Eagles captains, John Mikel Obi and Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha.

Mikel Obi strongly criticized Carragher’s statement:

“It’s so disrespectful. And this is coming from someone who never won any major international competition with England. His statement was absolutely wrong. Heowes people around the world an apology. If you think the Premier League would be what it is today without African players, you’re having a laugh, mate.”

Interestingly, Weah’s Ballon d’Or win was not influenced by AFCON, as Liberia is not a football powerhouse. His victory came purely from his European club exploits. However, this does not diminish AFCON’s importance.

Omojuwa firmly shut down the debate:

“It’s not even a question. Every continental tournament is a major tournament. Anyone who doesn’t understand that has no business earning money from football punditry.”

Salah’s Moment to Shine

With Salah leading both individually and collectively for Liverpool, this could finally be the year another African player claims football’s biggest individual honor. But will he get the recognition he deserves?

One thing is certain: the Ballon d’Or debate is far from over.