Ousmane Dembélé has the numbers. With 33 goals, 13 assists, and a starring role in PSG’s Champions League triumph, his case for the Ballon d’Or is strong on paper. But L’Équipe highlights two key reasons that could cost him the ultimate individual prize.
1. A star too quiet?
Despite his performances, Dembélé keeps a low profile. Unlike Real Madrid’s intense lobbying machine, PSG has yet to fully mobilize its PR strategy for him. Even more, Dembélé himself avoids the spotlight — a respectable stance, but one that might work against him in a vote where visibility and narrative often tip the balance.
2. Too much brilliance at PSG
Ironically, PSG’s success could hurt Dembélé’s chances. Teammates like Achraf Hakimi, Vitinha, or Gianluigi Donnarumma have also shone this season. In past votes, this kind of internal competition has split ballots — just ask Vinicius Jr in 2023. Without a clear push to make Dembélé the standout face of Paris, he could see the Ballon d’Or slip through his fingers.
Related Posts:
