Ballon d’Or: ‘He’s role model’ – Ex-Arsenal man, Elneny names player to win awardmat

Former Arsenal midfielder, Mohamed Elneny, has tipped his countryman and Liverpool’s goal king, Mohamed Salah, to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Salah was in top form for Liverpool last season, scoring 34 goals and providing 23 assists in 52 games for the Reds.

Tne Egyptian helped Arne Slot’s men claim the Premier League title in the 2024-25 campaign.

The 33-year-old also signed a new deal with Liverpool in April.

Former Arsenal man Elneny told Al Emarat Al Youm that Salah is the role model for Arab players.

“I hope Salah wins the Ballon d’or. He’s role model for Egyptian and Arab players in terms of commitment & professionalism,” said Elneny.

The former African Footballer of the Year is among the 30-man shortlist recently released by organisers, France Football for this year’s awards.

Salah will have to beat off challenges from PSG’s forward Ousmane Dembele, and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who are also in the list, to win the award.