Rivaldo names Barcelona duo as frontrunners for Ballon d’Or – ‘Don’t see anyone ahead of them’

Barcelona have started off 2025 in the best manner possible with two wins in the Copa del Rey and two in the Spanish Super Cup.

Now crowned the champions of the Supercopa de Espana and having booked a place in the quarterfinal of the cup, they will look to make amends for their collapse in the league towards the end of last season.

While the hiccup in La Liga cost them heavily in the standings, it is clear that Barcelona continue to be the best team in Spain, and by far, the team with the most potent attack.

Rivaldo’s thoughts

Barcelona legend Rivaldo spoke to the media recently in an interview and gave his thoughts on a number of topics related to the club’s performance this season.

He began by showering praise on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, both of whom have enjoyed stunning campaigns so far for the Blaugrana.

“Right now I don’t see anyone ahead of Lamine and Raphinha in the race to win the Ballon d’Or,” he began, claiming the duo are the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or.

“Maybe if we look outside of Spain, Salah is a strong candidate for his season and Vinicius will always be there. All this will depend a lot on Barcelona and the conquest of collective titles, but both are having a great season,” he added.

Elaborating on why he picked the Barcelona stars as his favourites for the prestigious individual award, the Brazilian legend said,

“Yamal is showing great confidence in Barcelona and plays with a maturity much greater than his age.”

“Raphinha is also a strong candidate for the Ballon d’Or. Especially for how he has been playing lately, scoring goals, giving assists and showing great confidence in the field,” he added on his compatriot.

“He is playing with creativity and determination, which makes him an outstanding candidate for the award,” he concluded on Raphinha.

Rivaldo was then quizzed about Ronald Araujo who finally appears set to stay at the club after incessant rumours of his departure to Juventus.

“It is always important to keep the great players, and Araújo’s permanence will be a great benefit for Barcelona. The seasons are long, with many games, so having a strong group is essential.”

“Injuries and the need for rest for some players make having quality on the bench key to maintaining competitiveness,” he added.

Amidst his praise for Barcelona, the club legend took a moment to point out that Real Madrid can never be counted out and that a resurrection from them must be expected.

“Conceding nine goals in two games is something that the fans do not forgive, neither the players nor the coach. But Real Madrid is still alive in the League, the Champions League and the Cup.”

“If they were bad in all competitions, it would be different, but the team improved after a slow start to the season and will always fight for the titles,” he added.

Finally, Rivaldo gave his verdict on Barcelona’s start to the season and how it was vital to keep up the level given the low margin for error at the club.

“For Barcelona, it is a fantastic start, but if their performance falls in La Liga or in other competitions, criticism will also come.”

“Training a team of this level means being prepared for moments of high pressure and constant criticism,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT