As October, the month when the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner will be revealed, remains far off, bookmakers have unveiled the current odds for Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé’s chances of claiming the title.
As every year, all eyes turn to the Théâtre des Châtelet in Paris for the ceremony honouring the best player of the year. Currently held by Spanish midfielder Rodri (Manchester City), the trophy will undoubtedly change hands next October. At present, Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) is the bookmakers’ top favourite for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Given his outstanding season at Liverpool, the Egyptian forward is in a strong position to claim this highly coveted trophy sought after by the world’s best players. However, with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in close contention, the outcome could shift.
Bookmakers’ odds for Vinícius and Mbappé

After struggling in September and especially October, Kylian Mbappé is now completely turning things around. During his adjustment period at Real Madrid, which he joined last summer, the 26-year-old forward did not rank among the top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. However, since December, things have changed. Taking advantage of a few absences from Vinícius Júnior, KM9 has regained confidence, which he has demonstrated with his recent performances. Not only is he scoring goals – and some stunning ones at that – but Kylian is also establishing himself as the leader of Madrid’s attack.
Following his sensational hat-trick against Real Valladolid on Saturday during the 21st matchday of La Liga, bookmakers have propelled the French forward onto the podium of 2025 Ballon d’Or contenders. Currently Real Madrid’s top scorer (22 goals in 32 matches), the former Paris Saint-Germain star has a 16.7% chance of winning the next Ballon d’Or, according to bookmakers. This is the same percentage as Vinícius Júnior, who remains second to Mohamed Salah, still leading the race with 22.2%.
Based on the current trend, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the France captain overtake his Madrid teammate for second place and challenge Liverpool’s winger, who continues to shine. With his teammates aiming to help him become La Liga’s top scorer, Mbappé could make history by lifting the 2025 Ballon d’Or next October, especially if his club secures major trophies such as La Liga and, crucially, the Champions League, where much work remains to be done.
The top Ballon d’Or favourites according to bookmakers
- Mo Salah: 22.2%
- Vinícius Júnior: 16.7%
- Kylian Mbappé: 16.7%
- Lamine Yamal: 14.3%
- Raphinha: 9.1%
- Jude Bellingham: 6.7%
- Erling Haaland: 6.7%
- Robert Lewandowski: 5.9%
- Cole Palmer: 3.8%
Leave a Reply