France and Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has admitted he finds it difficult to choose between teammates Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Both Yamal and Dembele have been in sensational form this season and are among the top contenders for football’s most prestigious individual award. While Koundé had previously leaned toward Yamal as his favourite, he now says both players deserve equal recognition.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of France’s international fixtures, Koundé said (via GOAL):
“I have already answered, I will do it again. Both [Yamal and Dembele] deserve it. They had an extraordinary season, with trophies to boot.

“Being teammates with both, it’s difficult. I’m not the one voting, and there are arguments for both. I’m very happy to be with Lamine, to see how he is carrying us. Ousmane has reached a kind of fullness, he is playing his best football, with the statistics. May the best man win.”

The defender’s diplomatic response reflects just how close the race is between the Barcelona teenager and the experienced French winger, both of whom have dazzled for club and country this year.

With Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah also in the mix, the 2025 Ballon d’Or is shaping up to be one of the most competitive contests in recent years.