Raphinha's Ballon D'Or Predictions: His Top Five Contenders

James

3 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

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Raphinha's Ballon d'Or Predictions: His Top Five Contenders

The Ballon d'Or. The most prestigious individual award in football. Every player dreams of lifting that coveted trophy, and this year, the whispers are swirling around a host of potential winners. But who does Brazilian winger Raphinha, himself a rising star, believe will be in the running? We've delved into the rumour mill and compiled his predicted top five contenders for the 2023 Ballon d'Or.

A Star-Studded Lineup: Raphinha's Predictions

Raphinha, known for his electrifying pace and skillful dribbling at Barcelona, recently hinted at his top picks for the prestigious award in an exclusive interview. While he didn't explicitly name names, strong indicators point towards these five exceptional players:

1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City): It's almost impossible to ignore Haaland's phenomenal debut season in the Premier League. His record-breaking goal tally speaks for itself, making him a near-certain contender. His relentless scoring ability and impact on Manchester City's success solidify his position at the top of many predictions, including Raphinha's. Haaland's dominance in front of goal has redefined attacking prowess.

2. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF): The legendary Argentinian captain continues to defy expectations. Despite his move to MLS, Messi's impact on the international stage remains undeniable, particularly after leading Argentina to World Cup victory. His influence, even in a new league, ensures he remains a strong Ballon d'Or candidate. His legacy speaks volumes.

3. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain): A consistent performer at the highest level, Mbappé’s continued excellence for PSG and his impressive performances on the international stage keep him firmly in the conversation. His pace, skill, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat. The young superstar's potential for future Ballon d'Or wins is also undeniable.

4. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City): The architect of Manchester City's midfield, De Bruyne’s influence is immeasurable. His creativity, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of a game make him a vital cog in Pep Guardiola's machine. Though he might not score as many goals as others, his contributions are undeniably world-class. He's a master playmaker, consistently delivering assists and influencing matches significantly.

5. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): The young English midfielder has already made a significant impact at Real Madrid. His performances are captivating fans and pundits alike. Bellingham’s maturity, tactical awareness and ability to dictate play from midfield indicate a player destined for greatness, putting him firmly on Raphinha’s radar.

Beyond the Top Five: Other Notable Mentions

While these five players dominate Raphinha's predicted top five, other players like Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid) and Rodri (Manchester City) certainly deserve honorable mentions. The competition for the Ballon d'Or is fiercely competitive, and several other players could make a late push.

Conclusion: A Thrilling Ballon d'Or Race Awaits

The race for the Ballon d'Or 2023 promises to be an enthralling one. Raphinha's predicted top five reflects the exceptional talent gracing the world's football pitches. Ultimately, only time will tell who will emerge victorious, but one thing is certain: it will be a closely fought battle between football's elite. Who do you think will win? Let us know in the comments below!