As the new year draws near, it’s time to reflect on your soccer journey while welcoming a fresh chapter. With professional leagues and global tournaments taking a winter break, it’s the ideal moment for some self-reflection and the unveiling of the Ballon d’Or power rankings.
The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League is ushering in a new era of competition, preparing for the final tournament in February. This season has witnessed the emergence of a new generation of stars alongside seasoned icons, showcasing a blend of fresh talent and established prowess in an 18-team, six-round challenge. The Champions League remains a battleground where personal honors are fiercely contested.
To clarify, Aitana Bommati doesn’t appear on this list due to a minor shoulder injury at the season’s start—she’s shown skill despite this setback. Unfortunately, her fractured left fibula is expected to sideline her until April, which complicates her eligibility for rankings and awards this year.
Patry Guijarro, another Barcelona midfielder often in Bommati’s shadow, is also missing due to a foot injury that has kept her from participating in the UWCL. However, she could make a return in January, giving her time to regain her form and compete for individual accolades.
The question remains: who has emerged as the standout performer? The selection of candidates is so broad that even the Champions League can’t spotlight them all. With next season’s Ballon d’Or contention underway (spanning August to July), this serves more as a mid-season overview rather than a year-end summary.
Based on performances in domestic leagues and notable tournaments, here’s a power ranking of the top 10 players currently vying for the Ballon d’Or.
10. Khadija Shaw (Man City)
Khadijah “Bunny” Shaw, a formidable striker, continues to shine as one of the game’s most reliable forwards. Even without Champions League play, her impressive tally of 12 goals in 11 WSL games keeps her in contention for the Golden Boot.
9. Hannah Hampton (Chelsea)
Despite being sidelined with an injury, Chelsea FC’s goalkeeper Hannah Hampton remains a trusted figure. Expected to return in January after a quadriceps issue, her presence has been vital in both the WSL and Champions League, boasting an impressive 85.2% save percentage.
8. Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid)
At just 19, Linda Caicedo is beginning to show her incredible potential. She has made a name for herself as one of Colombia’s top talents through her impactful performances for Real Madrid in domestic and Champions League matches.
7. Sandy Baltimore (Chelsea FC)
Sandy Baltimore, a French international, serves as Chelsea’s secret asset. With her ability to create and capitalize on scoring opportunities while seamlessly moving between defense and attack, she adds significant value, evidenced by her two goals in six Champions League matches this season.
6. Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
The NWSL’s MVP and Golden Boot winner, Temwa Chawinga, has made a lasting impression. Earning these accolades for two consecutive seasons, she was the most dangerous forward before an adductor injury prematurely ended her season; her potential return in spring 2026 could see her rise in rankings.
5. Caroline Graham Hansen (FC Barcelona)
Caroline Graham Hansen has consistently been a vital member of Barcelona’s squad. Leading the team in shots taken (19), her relentless activity on the right wing has kept opponents on their toes.
4. Mariona Caldenti (Arsenal)
Mariona Caldenti has played a crucial role in dictating the pace for Arsenal since her move to England. While her goal contributions haven’t fully matched her previous Champions League-winning season, her strategic positioning remains essential for the team’s dynamics.
3. Clara Buhl (Bayern Munich)
Clara Buhl stands unparalleled in assists for this season’s Champions League. After helping Bayern bounce back from an early struggle against Barcelona, her eight assists highlight her creative prowess.
2. Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona)
As a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Alexia Putellas demonstrates her elite skill level continually. She has excelled in league games and Champions League matches, despite missing two penalties, scoring three goals and providing four assists in her opening appearances.
1. Melky Dumornay (OL Lyon)
Few players match the dynamic presence of Melky Dumornay in Europe. The Haitian international’s versatility and remarkable talent have made her central to OL Lyon’s Champions League success, with four goals and significant offensive contributions bolstering her status as a top player.
Fan Take: This news serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving talent in women’s soccer, making it exciting for fans to watch new stars emerge. As these rankings signify ongoing excellence, they highlight how competitive the sport has become, promising thrilling seasons ahead.
