2025 ballon d’Or: Salah’s bold new declaration

DDM News

Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s star forward, has expressed renewed optimism about winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2025 following an outstanding season.

The Egyptian international, during a candid interview with former Manchester United captain Gary Neville on Sky Sports, opened up about his past obsession with the award and his current state of mind regarding it.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that Salah admitted the Ballon d’Or once consumed his thoughts, but he has since adopted a more composed attitude.

According to Salah, his pursuit of the award had previously caused him distress, but maturity has brought him a more balanced perspective.

“It used to drive me crazy before,” the 32-year-old told Neville.

“There are things beyond your control, so you have to let go in that direction,” he added.

Salah stated that while he still dreams of winning the Ballon d’Or, he is now more accepting of outcomes beyond his influence.

“I would love to win it one day. But if it does not happen, I don’t know what to do. I am sure there is a good chance to win it this year, but we will see,” Salah remarked.

Salah’s comments come after an impressive campaign in which he played a key role in guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title.

The Egyptian forward finished the season with an astonishing 33 goals and 23 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.

This remarkable output has placed him among the top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Salah has previously stated his desire to win the award, not only for personal glory but to make his country and fans proud.

The Ballon d’Or, organized by France Football, is widely regarded as the most coveted individual honor in global football.

Since its inception in 1956, the award has been won by legends such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, George Weah, and Fabio Cannavaro.

Salah will face stiff competition from other in-form players, including Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, and Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal.

Salah’s journey to the top has been anything but easy.

Born in Nagrig, Egypt, he began his professional career with El Mokawloon before moving to Europe.

He played for Swiss club Basel, where his performances earned him a transfer to Chelsea in the Premier League.

After limited playing time in London, he found his stride in Italy with Fiorentina and AS Roma.

In 2017, Salah returned to England with a then-club-record move to Liverpool, where he quickly became a fan favorite.

Since joining Liverpool, Salah has broken several records, winning the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.

He has also been named African Footballer of the Year multiple times and is regarded as one of Africa’s greatest football exports.

As anticipation builds for the Ballon d’Or ceremony later this year, Salah’s consistent brilliance on the pitch may finally earn him football’s highest individual accolade.

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