France Football will host the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris on Monday, with Barcelona well represented across multiple categories.
However, two of the club’s biggest names, Robert Lewandowski and Pedri, will not be making the trip to the French capital despite their nominations.
Spanish media confirmed over the weekend that both players have opted out of attending the ceremony.
According to Spanish media outlet Sport, Pedri has mutually agreed with the club to skip the ceremony. The midfielder, who has enjoyed a standout year at club and international level, is reportedly prioritizing rest to manage a demanding schedule under new coach Hansi Flick. He is also not considered among the frontrunners for the men’s award this year.
Lewandowski’s absence stems from fitness concerns following an injury sustained during the summer. The Polish striker has yet to fully rediscover his form this season and, like Pedri, is viewed as not a top contender for the prize.
Barcelona’s main hopes for recognition lie with Raphinha and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who are widely tipped to feature on the podium alongside Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele. Their performances over the past year have put them firmly in contention for the Ballon d’Or.
It will be interesting to see how Barcelona’s nominees get on during the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The Catalan club is well represented across different categories. Nominations include Lewandowski, Pedri, Raphinha, and Yamal for the men’s award, while Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Claudia Pina, Patri Guijarro, Ewa Pajor, and Caroline Graham Hansen are all shortlisted for the women’s equivalent.
Barcelona are also among the contenders for both the Men’s and Women’s Club of the Year awards. In addition, head coach Hansi Flick has been nominated for the Johan Cruyff Trophy, while goalkeeper Cata Coll is in the running for the Women’s Yachine Trophy.
The club’s emerging talents have also earned recognition. Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí have been shortlisted for the men’s Kopa Trophy, while Vicky López is nominated on the women’s side.