Five stars from England’s triumphant Euro 2025 campaign have been nominated for the prestigious women’s Ballon d’Or, following a historic summer that saw the Lionesses crowned champions of Europe. Among them are three Arsenal players – Leah Williamson, Alessia Russo, and Chloe Kelly – who not only lifted the European trophy with their country but also played pivotal roles in securing Arsenal’s Champions League title.
Joining the trio on the Ballon d’Or shortlist are Lucy Bronze and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who both enjoyed a stellar season with Chelsea, completing a domestic treble before helping England retain their European crown with a hard-fought victory over Spain in the final.
Arsenal’s impressive presence in the nominations list continues, with seven of their players recognized. Alongside Williamson, Russo, and Kelly are Spain’s Mariona Caldentey, Australia’s Steph Catley, the USA’s Emily Fox, and Norway’s Frida Maanum, highlighting the north London club’s dominant campaign.
On the men’s side, four England players – Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Cole Palmer, and Declan Rice – are nominated for the Ballon d’Or. They are joined by Scotland’s Scott McTominay, whose standout performances were crucial in Napoli’s Serie A-winning season.
In the youth categories, 19-year-old England striker Michelle Agyemang earned a Kopa Trophy nomination after her crucial late goals in the Euro 2025 knockout stages helped propel England to the final. Myles Lewis-Skelly, another rising Arsenal talent, also appears on the young players’ list. Chelsea’s Wieke Kaptein is another notable name included among the young prospects.
Hannah Hampton is further honoured with a nomination for the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, after her heroics in the Euro 2025 final where she saved two penalties. Arsenal’s Daphne van Domselaar also joins her in the goalkeeping shortlist.
In the coaching categories, England’s Sarina Wiegman, Arsenal’s Renée Slegers, and Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor are all up for the Johan Cruyff Trophy for women’s coaches. Justine Madugu of Nigeria and Brazil’s Arthur Elias are also recognized for their continental successes.
Meanwhile, Arsenal and Chelsea are both nominated for the women’s club of the year, with Chelsea and Liverpool named among the contenders on the men’s side.
