Football legend Lionel Messi has sent warm congratulations to his former Barcelona teammate Ousmane Dembélé following the French forward’s victory at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony. Dembele was honored as the best male footballer in the world, edging out rising star Lamine Yamal and others after a stellar season with Paris Saint-Germain.
Messi took to social media to express his happiness for Dembele’s achievement, writing “Amazing Ous! Congrats, I am very happy for you. You deserve this.” The Argentine, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner himself, acknowledged Dembélé’s significant contribution to PSG’s successful season, which included clinching the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1 title, and Coupe de France.
Dembélé, who spent several seasons alongside Messi at Barcelona, paid tribute to the legendary figure during his acceptance speech, crediting his time at the Catalan club as a vital learning experience. The emotional moment underscored the close bond between the two players despite their subsequent career paths.
Lamine Yamal, the teenage prodigy and closest challenger to Dembele in the Ballon d’Or voting, also publicly congratulated the winner, reflecting the mutual respect among the new generation of football stars.
The ceremony in Paris celebrated not only individual excellence but also the evolving landscape of football, marked by fresh talent and shifting dynamics. Messi’s heartfelt reaction added a personal and generous touch to the event, highlighting the camaraderie underlying football’s global stage.
More than news- Its Icegate