As the 2024-2025 football season nears its conclusion, the race for the Ballon d’Or has become a hot topic. On March 18, 2025, French and FC Barcelona defender Jules Koundé shared his thoughts on the leading contenders for the prestigious award during a press conference at Clairefontaine. His response was both cautious and insightful, acknowledging the complexities of choosing a favorite.
Koundé finds himself in a unique position, with several of his teammates, both from Barcelona and the French national team, being potential Ballon d’Or candidates. When asked about the top contenders, he explained, “It’s tough to choose between the Barcelona players and those from the French team. They’re all having excellent seasons, each with their own unique qualities that stand out.” This highlights the abundance of talent around him, making it difficult to single out one player for the award.
He further added that if a Barcelona player were to win, it would signify significant team success, noting, “Playing for Barcelona, it would be a great achievement. It would mean we’ve done well in competitions if one of our players takes home the award.” His statement underscores the connection between individual accolades and collective team performance, suggesting that such recognition is often a reflection of a team’s success.
While Koundé refrained from explicitly naming Kylian Mbappé, a leading contender for the award, he steered the conversation toward the importance of team success. He emphasized that for Barcelona players to rival stars from clubs like Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid, major trophies like La Liga or the Champions League would be essential. This aligns with the history of the Ballon d’Or, where winners typically emerge from teams that achieve notable success in the season.
Koundé maintained a neutral stance on Mbappé and Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal but took the opportunity to praise his teammate, Ousmane Dembélé. Koundé spoke highly of Dembélé’s abilities, describing him as “extremely difficult to defend against” due to his versatility and skill with both feet. He acknowledged the threat Dembélé poses to defenders and his ability to break through defenses, an important factor given that both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona remain in contention for the Champions League.
Koundé’s measured response reflects his position, balancing his affiliations with both his club and national teammates. By subtly hinting that a Barcelona player winning the Ballon d’Or would depend on the team’s overall success, Koundé emphasizes that individual awards are often the result of collective achievements.
With Barcelona currently leading La Liga and facing crucial matches against Real Madrid, Koundé understands the impact of high-stakes performances on Ballon d’Or voting. His neutral stance on Mbappé allows him to maintain harmony within both his club and national teams, demonstrating a delicate balance between professional commitments.
Koundé’s comment that “team titles will be crucial” serves as a reminder that while individual brilliance is celebrated, it is often the team’s success that paves the way for personal recognition. For players like Yamal and Raphinha to challenge contenders like Mbappé or Dembélé, they will need to play pivotal roles in Barcelona’s quest for silverware.
Beyond the Ballon d’Or discussion, Koundé also addressed the recent issues involving fellow French international Adrien Rabiot and the Paris Saint-Germain ultras. He expressed sympathy for Rabiot, condemning the behavior of certain fan groups, stating, “It’s unacceptable behavior. Beyond rivalries, there are limits that have been crossed.” His comments highlight the off-field challenges players face and the importance of mutual respect within the football world.
Koundé also spoke about his relationship with Lamine Yamal, highlighting their strong on-field understanding. He noted their effective communication, particularly when it comes to defensive work, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in creating tactical cohesion. This partnership reflects the broader teamwork dynamic that contributes to Barcelona’s success.
As the season continues, the performances of these key players will inevitably influence the Ballon d’Or race. Koundé’s reflections provide a balanced view of the factors that shape such individual honors, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between individual talent and collective effort in football.
In conclusion, Koundé’s insights offer a thoughtful perspective on the current Ballon d’Or race, emphasizing the intertwined nature of individual achievements and team accomplishments. His diplomatic approach, coupled with genuine respect for his peers, showcases a player who values both personal excellence and the collective spirit of the sport. As the award draws near, Koundé’s comments offer a grounded reminder of the broader context in which football’s highest honors are decided.
