Chelsea players shone in the 2025 Ballon d’Or nods. Some rose high, others caught eyes. Their games, their numbers, and what can come next—all point to bright future Ballon d’Or possibilities.
Strong Performances by Chelsea in 2025: Ballon d’Or Stage
Cole Palmer had much improvement in 2025. He ranked 8th in Men’s Ballon d’Or, an improvement from his ranking of 25 in 2024. He netted 18 goals and provided 14 assists in the previous season at Chelsea. Palmer also netted and provided an assist in the Club World Cup final to lead Chelsea to a win.
Chelsea Women’s Hannah Hampton won the Women’s Yashin Trophy. She was declared best goalkeeper in women’s football for 2025. Besides that, she finished 10th in the overall Women’s Ballon d’Or.
Lucy Bronze also performed very well. She contributed to Chelsea winning trophies in her inaugural year at Chelsea. She also won Euro 2025 with England and ranked 9th in the Women’s Ballon d’Or voting.
Sandy Baltimore and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd were also nominated for the Women’s Ballon d’Or. They finished 15th and 23rd respectively. Baltimore scored twice in the FA Cup final vs. Manchester United.
Among younger stars, Wieke Kaptein made waves. In her inaugural season at Chelsea’s senior team, she was ranked third in the Women’s Kopa Trophy (best under-21).
Men’s wise, Estevao Willian was shortlisted for the Men’s Kopa Trophy and came fourth.
Stats & Highlights
Palmer’s stats: 18 goals + 14 assists. Big step up.
Hampton’s clean sheets, saves, and her role for England at Euro 2025 helped her clinch the Yashin Trophy.
Lucy Bronze’s experience, defensive contributions, leadership, and winning Euro 2025 added to her nomination.
Potential to win Ballon d’Or in Future
These Chelsea players have strong chances ahead. Why?
1. Age and growth
Cole Palmer is still young, 23, with room to improve. Consistency will help.
Wieke Kaptein is under 21 and already on the radar.
2. Big matches / big tournaments
Goalkeepers and defenders often need standout tournament moments. Hannah Hampton already has Euro success.
Players like Lucy Bronze and Baltimore, who deliver in cup finals or big matches, are noticed.
3. Team success
If Chelsea can do well in Champions League, Premier League, or major women’s leagues, that boosts players’ profiles.
4. Consistency and exposure
Maintaining form over seasons helps.
Young players need to avoid injuries and get regular playing time.
Author’s Insight
Chelsea had several players in the 2025 Ballon d’Or orbit.
Most likely next Ballon d’Or contender from Chelsea is Cole Palmer. He has momentum, stats, and already placed in 2025.
Hannah Hampton might not win the main Ballon d’Or yet, but she can win or place high in the Yashin award or Women’s Ballon d’Or with continued strong seasons.
Wieke Kaptein and Estevao Willian are players to watch. They might not win soon but are on trajectory.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
