Open Extended ReactionsCongratulations to Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay, who has earned himself a place on the short list for the 2025 Ballon d'Or. It's fair to say that many an eyebrow was raised among Southampton fans when Dusan Tadic, their former winger, received a Ballon d'Or nod in 2019. César Azpilicueta (2021)César Azpilicueta was one of five Chelsea players (alongside Jorginho, N'Golo Kanté, Romelu Lukaku and Mason Mount) nominated for the 2021 Ballon d'Or after triumphing in the previous season's Champions League. Darwin Núñez (2022)Liverpool had a glut of players nominated for the Ballon d'Or in 2022, after winning both domestic cups and almost usurping Manchester City in the Premier League title race. Mats Hummels (2024)Having not made a single Ballon d'Or short list since 2017, Mats Hummels came roaring back into contention in 2024 after captaining Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final.