Barcelona Star Pedri Shocks Football World with Unexpected Ballon d'Or Move
Barcelona's midfield star Pedri is anticipated to miss Monday's prestigious awards ceremony, even though he's been shortlisted for the top honor.
The Spanish creative midfielder joins three other Barcelona representatives competing for the men's trophy in 2025, alongside Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Paris Saint-Germain's attacking talent Ousmane Dembélé is considered the overwhelming frontrunner, while both Yamal and Raphinha are projected to secure spots in the top five.
Although delivering exceptional displays throughout the previous campaign, guiding Barcelona to a domestic clean sweep with his unmatched control in the center of the park, it would be surprising if Pedri's name emerges victorious at the Théâtre du Châtelet considering his understated impact on games.
Pedri's decision appears motivated by recuperation needs rather than disappointment. Mundo Deportivo reports that the 22-year-old playmaker is "focusing on" his recovery by avoiding the trip to Paris on Monday night. Pedri, who endured significant fitness problems after being excessively utilized during his debut Barcelona season, remains the club's sole outfield starter across all five opening matches of the new term, missing only 10 minutes before Sunday's encounter with Getafe.
Yamal definitely intends to be present. Mundo Deportivo indicates that the young sensation plans to arrive with a substantial 20-person delegation consisting primarily of relatives and close companions as he hopes for a surprise result on what many anticipate will be Dembélé's triumphant evening.
Real Madrid's marquee signing Kylian Mbappé represents another contender and, despite maintaining a tight friendship with Dembélé, announced he won't be present at the Paris ceremony. The French striker also disclosed that none of his Madrid colleagues would be in the French capital, confirming that the Spanish powerhouse will snub the occasion for the second consecutive year after avoiding the 2024 event once it became clear that Vinicius Junior wouldn't claim victory.
Even with Pedri's likely non-attendance, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick verified that his organization would maintain strong presence on Monday.
"FC Barcelona will participate in the 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony as a mark of respect since we have nominations, and we'll observe the outcome," the German tactician informed media representatives this weekend. "Whoever claims the prize will be deserving. I'm eager to appreciate the ceremony and demonstrate respect for our nomination and for those who win."