Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembele paid tribute to several football icons after being named the winner of the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The French forward claimed the coveted award on Monday night in Paris, finishing ahead of contenders Lamine Yamal and Vitinha.
During his acceptance speech, Dembele expressed gratitude to football greats who have influenced his journey.
He referred to Ronaldinho who handed him the award as a true legend of the game.
The 28-year-old also spoke fondly of Luis Enrique, describing the coach as a father figure, and credited Andres Iniesta as someone he learned from during his time at Barcelona.
“It’s exceptional what I have just experienced. I have no words. It’s been an incredible year with PSG; a lot of things have happened during my career,” Dembele said.
“That Ronaldinho, a football legend, gives it to me, it’s exceptional. I’m proud of what I have accomplished.
“I want to thank PSG, who came to get me in 2023, the president, and the whole club. Nasser is like a dad to me.
“I want to thank all the staff who have been exceptional; Luis Enrique, who is also like a dad. I also want to thank my teammates. We won almost everything. You supported me.
“We went to get almost all the trophies, and this individual trophy really rewards the collective.”
“I also want to thank all the clubs I went through, Dortmund, Rennes, my training club where I learned almost everything, Barcelona, where I dreamed of playing, and where I learned from exceptional players like Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi.”
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