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Golden Boy 2025 Shortlist Drops: PSG Star Doué Eyed After UCL Triumph; Yamal Ineligible

Shivansh Rana | 4 min read | 7 hours ago | Oct 16, 2025 08:15 am IST
Golden Boy 2025 Shortlist Drops: PSG Star Doué Eyed After UCL Triumph; Yamal Ineligible

Alright, football fans, get ready! The official 25-man shortlist for the 2025 Golden Boy award just dropped, and it’s sparking some serious buzz. This isn’t just any list; it features some of the brightest young talents shaking up European football right now. We’re talking about Chelsea’s Estevao, Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham, and Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono, all vying for one of football’s most prestigious youth honors. But honestly, the real talk is about PSG’s Désiré Doué, who’s a massive favorite after his incredible role in their UEFA Champions League triumph.

Key Takeaways

  • The 25-man shortlist for the 2025 Golden Boy award was officially announced between October 14-16, 2025.
  • Chelsea’s Estevao, Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham, and Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono are among the finalists.
  • Lamine Yamal, the 2024 winner, is ineligible for the 2025 award due to competition rules.
  • Paris Saint-Germain’s Désiré Doué is considered a strong favorite, crucial in PSG’s UEFA Champions League win.
  • The winner of the 2025 Golden Boy award is expected to be announced in Mid-November 2025.

The Contenders: Who’s Shaking Up the Race?

So, who’s in the mix? We’ve got some incredible names, seriously. Estevao at Chelsea, after joining from Palmeiras, has already made a stunning impact. He bagged a stoppage-time winner against Liverpool and even scored a brace for Brazil. Yeah, he’s definitely one to watch.

Then there’s Jobe Bellingham, brother of Jude, at Borussia Dortmund. At just 20, his future is looking a bit uncertain. Rumors suggest growing frustration over limited playing time since his £27m move in June 2025. Premier League giants like Manchester United and Crystal Palace are reportedly keeping a close eye on his situation.

And don’t forget Franco Mastantuono, Real Madrid’s 18-year-old wonderkid. He recently had a “pointless trip” with the Argentina national team to the U.S., not playing due to a muscle overload, but quickly bounced back to training. It’s a rollercoaster for these young stars, isn’t it?

Lamine Yamal: One-Time Wonder Rule Strikes Again

Remember Lamine Yamal? The Barcelona sensation who absolutely owned the 2024 Golden Boy award? Well, you won’t see his name on this year’s list. But why? It’s simple, really. The rules state that a player can only win the trophy once in their career. So, while he’s still a phenomenal talent, he’s just not eligible for 2025. Kind of a bummer, but fair’s fair.

Expert Analysis: Why Doué Stands Out After UCL Glory

Unbiased View

Look, while all these young players are exceptional, the buzz around Paris Saint-Germain’s Désiré Doué is undeniable. Expert analysts are pointing to one major factor: his pivotal role in PSG’s UEFA Champions League triumph. Playing such a crucial part on the biggest stage truly elevates a player’s profile. It shows not just raw talent, but the ability to perform under immense pressure when it matters most.

One pundit noted, “Doué’s performance in the Champions League was nothing short of spectacular. He didn’t just participate; he influenced games, and that’s a rare quality in a young player. That kind of impact makes him a clear front-runner for this award.”

Social Media Storm: Fans React to Snubs and Surprises

You know social media, right? It’s been absolutely buzzing since the shortlist dropped on October 14-16, 2025. Fans are going wild, debating who deserves it, who got snubbed, and who’s the dark horse. There’s a real emotional contagion happening, with strong opinions flying around. Many are celebrating Doué’s inclusion, especially after his UCL heroics, while others are lamenting Yamal’s ineligibility.

The discussions around Jobe Bellingham’s limited playing time are gaining traction too. Will his struggles at Dortmund affect his chances? And what about Mastantuono’s unusual Argentina trip? Every single detail gets picked apart. It’s a fascinating look into how quickly football narratives can shift.

What’s Next for the Golden Boy Crown?

So, who will claim the prestigious 2025 Golden Boy award? With so much talent on display, it’s anyone’s guess, but Désiré Doué certainly seems to have the momentum. The winner is expected to be announced in Mid-November 2025. We’re all on the edge of our seats, waiting to see who takes home this highly coveted trophy. Who do you think deserves it most this year?