Mohamed Salah’s case to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or has taken a huge blow after Liverpool’s early UCL exit.
Liverpool legend Steve McManaman has tipped Barcelona’s Raphinha to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
McManaman believes the Brazilian winger is a strong contender for the prestigious award.
Raphinha’s impressive form has been instrumental in Barcelona’s success this season, with the team topping LaLiga, reaching the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, and advancing to the quarterfinals of the Champions League.
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The Barcelona sensation scored and assisted as the Blaugrana advanced to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
The Brazilian scored 27 goals and made 19 assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.
Raphinha with the match ball and man of the match
Raphinha put Bayern Munich to the sword with his stunning hat-trick (Credit: Imago)
Speaking on TNT Sports, McManaman praised Raphinha’s performances, saying,
“As a winger, he needs to be discussed. We have been talking about Mo Salah, but now we have to put this gentleman in the conversation.”
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McManaman also highlighted the importance of the Champions League in the Ballon d’Or race, stating,
“They are all deserving at this moment in time… They all deserve a mention but whoever wins the Champions League will probably be favourite (to win the Ballon d’Or).”
Raphinha has scored 11 goals and contributed 5 assists and is favourite to be named Player of the Tournament.
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