Africa secured representation through two players among the 2025 Ballon d'Or top ten finalists. Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah earned recognition for exceptional club performances during the previous campaign. France Football announced these selections during Monday evening's ceremony at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. Hakimi captured both the French championship and the European Cup with Paris Saint-Germain across the season. Salah guided Liverpool to Premier League success while claiming the division's scoring crown.
The remaining eight positions featured Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, Vitinha, Cole Palmer, Nuno Mendes, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Kylian Mbappe, and Lamine Yamal. Both African representatives demonstrated consistent excellence throughout their respective domestic and continental campaigns. Hakimi contributed significantly to Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League triumph alongside their domestic title defense. Salah maintained his prolific goal-scoring form while helping Liverpool secure another Premier League championship. The selection reflects the growing influence of African talent within European football's elite competitions.
The remaining eight positions featured Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, Vitinha, Cole Palmer, Nuno Mendes, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Kylian Mbappe, and Lamine Yamal. Both African representatives demonstrated consistent excellence throughout their respective domestic and continental campaigns. Hakimi contributed significantly to Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League triumph alongside their domestic title defense. Salah maintained his prolific goal-scoring form while helping Liverpool secure another Premier League championship. The selection reflects the growing influence of African talent within European football's elite competitions.
