The goal published an analytical piece on May 7 and explored the shifting dynamics in this year's balloon d'Or Race, especially in the light of the UEFA Champio
The Ballon d'Or discussion has become a central point during the semi-final of the Champions League. After the excellent performance of Lamine Yamal in the first stage against Inter Milan, many experts expressed support for the teenage sensation to compete for the most prestigious individual prize of football.
Yamal continued to pose a threat in the second stage at the San Siro, which completed a beautiful 14 dribbles. However, he did not succeed in breaking Yann Sommer in the goal and more than 120 minutes only created one real chance. In the meantime, Raphinha scored what initially resembled the winner, but offered little else in the game.
The elimination of Barcelona has now cleared the way for Ousmane Dembélé to appear as a serious candidate. After he has scored the only goal in the first stage at the Emirates, he will lead PSG in the return bone in the Parc des Princes. A strong achievement there would considerably stimulate his balloon d'Or chances.
Of course, if Arsenal succeeds in turning things around, the name of Mohamed Salah could start the conversation again. Thanks to his record-breaking season in the Premier League, he continues to miss a strong competition-in-law if other candidates are missing a Champions League trophy.
Ultimately, a large part of this year's balloon d'Or race can depend on whether Dembélé's PSG reaches the final. However, one should not overlook the qualification of Inter Milan for the final in Munich, who puts their captain Lautaro Martínez firmly in the running – not only for the Champions League trophy, but possibly for the Ballon d'Or too.