"UEFA" selects the best player in the UEFA Champions League for the 2024/25 season.

The group of technical observers at the Union of European Football Associations has selected Ousmane Dembele, a player from Paris Saint-Germain, as the best player in the UEFA Champions League for the 2024/25 season, one day after his team's clean 5-0 victory in the final against Inter Milan in Munich. This award serves as a significant boost to the ambitions of the French international Dembele to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or award on September 22nd. Dembele ended the current season with 33 goals and 15 assists in various competitions, notably contributing to his team's long-awaited Champions League victory, in addition to winning the French league and domestic cup titles. Spanish coach Luis Enrique found the magic formula for Dembele by converting him from a right winger to a "false nine" striker, a position between a traditional striker and a playmaker. The Frenchman excelled in initiating attacks and providing the final touches. After the title match on Saturday, Enrique stated, "Personally, I would award the Ballon d'Or to Ousmane Dembele, solely because of his defensive style." He added, "This is humility; I truly believe he deserves to win it not only for his goals but also for his defense." Also, among the top contenders for the prestigious individual award are the young Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, Brazilian Rafinha, and Paris Saint-Germain's Italian goalkeeper Donnarumma. In a related context, Deziree Duh was chosen as the best young player in the Champions League this season. Duh, who will turn 20 on Tuesday, scored two goals and provided an assist in Saturday's final.