Former Icon Fuels Speculation with Cryptic Hint on Possible Golden Ball Winner

Barcelona legend teases winner as Dembele and Yamal battle for football’s greatest prize

Former Icon Fuels Speculation with Cryptic Hint on Possible Golden Ball Winner

The Ballon d'or returns to Paris on Monday night with Barcelona icon Ronaldinho confirmed as the special guest who will present football's most prestigious individual prize.

From Pogba's lost chance to Dembele's rise

Back in 2018, Ronaldinho boldly predicted that Paul Pogba could one day win the Ballon d’Or.

The French midfielder, however never came close to fulfilling that dream during his turbulent Man United spell and now seeks to rebuild his career at Monaco after doping ban cut short his Juventus return.

Today the spotlight shifts firmly to Ronaldinho himself who'll take the stage to crown new winner.

Who will take home the Golden Ball?

According to Spanish outlets, Ousmane Dembele's tipped as the frontrunner after delivering stunning treble winning season with Paris Saint Germain, scoring 35 goal and providing 16 assist across 53 match.

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal, meanwhile remains serious contender after breakout year with 18 goal and 25 assist helping Barca to 4 trophies.

🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Ronaldinho will hand over the Ballon d'Or to the winner on Monday.

— @tjcopepic.twitter.com/21tqcx8RUh

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) September 20, 2025

Tradition of legends announcing legends

The Ballon d’Or's often been presented by former greats (George Weah in 2024, David Beckham in 2023 and Zinedine Zidane in 2022).

Ronaldinho who once shone for both PSG & Barcelona now continues that tradition adding intrigue to night expected to keep fans guessing until the final moment.

Ronaldinho teases the outcome

Speaking ahead of the gala, the 2005 Ballon d'or winner admitted:

"I’ve been invited to deliver the Golden Ball and I already know who'll win it .. he plays for club I once wore the shirt of"