In modern football, ambition is as vital as talent. Every player dreams of lifting the biggest trophies, scoring the most iconic goals, and etching their name into history. For João Pedro, the Brighton forward whose star has been steadily rising, that dream takes its boldest form yet: the Ballon d’Or.
In his own words, the Brazilian admitted: “It would be a dream one day to win the Ballon d’Or. I believe in myself. Everything is possible. Maybe it can happen.”
His statement has sparked discussion across the footballing world. Some see it as confidence befitting a top player, while others view it as ambitious bordering on unrealistic. But the real question remains: Does João Pedro truly have the ability and persistence to win football’s most prestigious individual award?
The Ballon d’Or: A Prize Beyond Talent
The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually to the best footballer in the world, has long been dominated by the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. In recent years, players such as Luka Modrić, Karim Benzema, and Lionel Messi (again) have shown that the award demands not just individual brilliance, but consistency, impact on the biggest stages, and the ability to lead teams to glory.
For João Pedro to even enter the conversation, he must elevate his game to extraordinary levels — performing not just in domestic football, but also in Europe and on the international stage with Brazil.
Where João Pedro Stands Now
At just 22, João Pedro is far from the finished article, but his trajectory is promising. Since joining Brighton from Watford, he has become a pivotal figure in Roberto De Zerbi’s system. His versatility allows him to play as a striker, second striker, or attacking midfielder, making him invaluable in link-up play and chance creation.
Last season, Pedro impressed with his technical ability, composure, and work rate. He has shown glimpses of being more than just a goalscorer — he is someone who can dictate attacking tempo, press relentlessly, and inspire teammates.
But compared to the typical Ballon d’Or candidate, he still has a long way to go.
The Skills That Could Take Him There
- Technical Brilliance
João Pedro has natural flair with the ball at his feet. His dribbling, first touch, and close control in tight spaces are all reminiscent of Brazil’s long line of technically gifted forwards. - Composure in Front of Goal
He has steadily improved his finishing, showing the ability to score both poacher’s goals and long-range efforts. - Mentality and Belief
The very fact that he speaks about the Ballon d’Or with confidence shows he has belief in himself. Many greats, from Cristiano Ronaldo to Zlatan Ibrahimović, have turned ambition into motivation. - Youth and Development Window
At his age, he has time to grow. With the right moves, the right coach, and consistent performances, the ceiling is still very high.
The Challenges Ahead
However, the road to the Ballon d’Or is brutal. João Pedro faces several challenges:
- Competition: The global game is flooded with elite talent. Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and others already look like the frontrunners for the next decade.
- Club Platform: While Brighton are admired for their style and development, they are not yet a club competing regularly for Champions League trophies. History suggests that most Ballon d’Or winners come from elite clubs winning on the biggest stages.
- Consistency: To win the award, Pedro must sustain top-level performances over multiple seasons. One good campaign is not enough.
- International Stage: Success with Brazil could play a pivotal role. The Seleção has a proud tradition of Ballon d’Or contenders, from Rivaldo and Ronaldinho to Kaká. If Pedro can shine in Copa América or a World Cup, his stock would skyrocket.
Pathways to the Dream
For João Pedro to realistically achieve his Ballon d’Or ambition, several things would need to fall into place:
- A Big Move
A future transfer to a Champions League-contending side may be necessary. Playing for Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, or a similar powerhouse would give him the stage needed to impress global voters. - Defining Moments
Ballon d’Ors are often won by iconic moments — a Champions League final goal, a World Cup-winning run, or a dominant season. João Pedro must create those defining memories. - Physical Development
Adding more power and stamina to his game would allow him to dominate more consistently in high-intensity matches. - Leadership Growth
If Pedro can evolve into not just a talented forward but also a leader for club and country, his chances of recognition will multiply.
What the Fans and Pundits Say
Fan reaction to João Pedro’s statement has been mixed. Brighton supporters have praised his ambition, seeing it as proof of his hunger to succeed. Many Brazilians on social media cheered his words, noting that self-belief is part of their footballing culture.
Critics, however, argue that the Ballon d’Or is an unrealistic goal given his current status. Pundits have highlighted that while confidence is good, Pedro risks setting himself up for mockery if he fails to reach those lofty heights.
Conclusion: Belief as the First Step
So, does João Pedro have the ability and persistence to win the Ballon d’Or one day?
The honest answer is that the road is steep, and the odds are against him. He is competing in an era where extraordinary talents already dominate the headlines. However, football has always been a sport where dreamers occasionally rewrite history. Few believed Luka Modrić could win the award in the Messi-Ronaldo era, yet he did. Few expected Mohamed Salah to rise from Basel to Ballon d’Or contention, but he nearly has.
