Paul Pogba Praises Cristiano Ronaldo As Barcelona And PSG Dominate The 2025 Globe Soccer Awards In Dubai

According to Ireporter Online, football star Paul Pogba delivered an emotional tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards held in Dubai, describing the Portuguese icon as a timeless inspiration whose influence transcends generations.

The 16th edition of the prestigious awards ceremony took place on December 28 in the United Arab Emirates, attracting some of the biggest names in global football. Pogba, who received the Best Comeback Award, used his moment on stage to acknowledge Ronaldo’s lasting impact on the sport and on his own career journey.

Addressing the audience while holding his trophy, the French midfielder praised Ronaldo for setting standards that continue to motivate both established players and emerging talents, expressing gratitude for the legacy the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has built over the years.

While Pogba’s tribute created one of the evening’s most memorable moments, the ceremony was largely dominated by FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, who emerged as the standout clubs of the night.

Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, enjoyed a historic outing, securing three major accolades. The young forward was named Best Under-23 Player in LaLiga, Best Forward of the Year, and recipient of the Maradona Award for Best Young Talent, underlining his rapid rise in world football.

Speaking on his growing profile, Yamal acknowledged the pressure that now comes with his status at both club and national level, noting that he has learned to focus on being himself rather than drawing comparisons with established stars. He credited figures like Ronaldo for succeeding by staying true to their individuality.

The young Spaniard added a light-hearted moment when asked about expectations for the future, joking that his mother remains firmly in charge at home.

Barcelona’s success extended beyond Yamal, as Aitana Bonmatí was named Best Female Player of the Year, Raphinha claimed the Best LaLiga Player award, and head coach Hansi Flick was honoured as Best Coach in the Spanish league. The club also secured collective honours, winning Best Team in Spain and Best Women’s Club of the Year.

On the men’s side, Paris Saint-Germain enjoyed a landmark night, with Ousmane Dembélé crowned Best Men’s Player of the Year following an impressive season. The French champions were also named Men’s Best Club of the Year for the first time in the history of the awards.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now playing for Al Nassr, added another accolade to his storied career by winning the Best Middle East Player award, further cementing his influence across different football landscapes.

Other notable winners included Luis Enrique as Best Coach, Désiré Doué as Best Emerging Player, Vitinha as Best Midfielder, Luis Campos as Best Sporting Director, and renowned super-agent Jorge Mendes as Best Agent.