The 15 Most Popular Footballers in the World

May 5, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Footballers are no longer just athletes—they’re global celebrities. Their fame comes not only from their performances on the pitch but also from their marketability, social influence, and off-field impact. Here are the 15 most popular players in the world right now.

15. Marcus Rashford

Despite a challenging period on the field, Marcus Rashford remains one of England’s most beloved figures. His activism and humanitarian work have solidified his status as a role model beyond football.

14. Luis Suárez

Suárez has had a controversial yet legendary career, with over 500 goals to his name. His legacy includes unforgettable moments, both for his brilliance and his infamous incidents on the pitch.

Read the full article

13. Karim Benzema

Even after leaving Real Madrid, Benzema continues to draw global attention with his lifestyle presence and on-field skills in Saudi Arabia. The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner remains a massive figure in the sport.

12. Harry Kane

Kane is England’s all-time leading scorer and now a star at Bayern Munich. His reputation as a clinical striker and national team captain has earned him global admiration.

11. Heung-min Son

Son is a national hero in South Korea and a Premier League icon. He became the first Asian player to win the Golden Boot and continues to inspire fans across Asia and beyond.

10. Erling Haaland

Haaland’s goal-scoring exploits at Manchester City have made him one of the sport’s biggest stars. With his power, speed, and clinical finishing, he’s already a global brand at just 24 years old.

9. Jude Bellingham

At just 21, Bellingham is a leader at Real Madrid and a standout for England. His maturity, charisma, and Adidas partnership have helped him become a superstar in record time.

8. Cole Palmer

Palmer has quickly risen to fame at Chelsea with standout performances and a signature goal celebration. His influence is growing rapidly, especially among younger fans.

7. Lamine Yamal

Only 17, Yamal is already a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. A Euro 2024 winner, he’s one of the brightest young talents in football and a social media sensation.

6. Mohamed Salah

Salah is idolized in Egypt and across Africa. With a stunning goal record for Liverpool and a humble demeanor, he’s one of the most respected and recognizable players worldwide.

5. Vinícius Jr

Vinícius Jr remains a central figure at Real Madrid despite the arrival of new stars. His pace, flair, and leadership make him one of the most exciting and followed players in the world.

4. Kylian Mbappé

Photo: Marta Fernandez Jimenez / Shutterstock.com

Mbappé has already achieved greatness with a World Cup win and 350+ career goals. Now at Real Madrid, he’s among the sport’s most marketable and explosive stars.

3. Neymar

Photo: Alizada Studios / Shutterstock.com

Even with recent injury struggles, Neymar’s fame endures. As Brazil’s all-time leading scorer and a cultural icon, his flair and charisma continue to captivate fans worldwide.

2. Lionel Messi

Messi’s World Cup win in 2022 and his move to Inter Miami cemented his status as a global icon. With unmatched career stats and a $1 billion career, he’s a legend in every sense.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo tops the list as the most followed athlete on the planet and the all-time leading goal scorer. With the CR7 brand, over 900 goals, and unmatched global influence, he remains football’s biggest superstar.