The 25 Best Football Players in the World Right Now – Ranked
Football is a global spectacle, constantly evolving and producing new stars who capture the world’s imagination. From teenage prodigies lighting up Europe’s biggest stages to seasoned legends still rewriting records, the beautiful game never stands still. In this list, we rank the 25 best football players on the planet right now, spotlighting the incredible talent, consistency, and winning mentality that set them apart in today’s fiercely competitive era.
25. Lautaro Martinez
Inter Milan’s star striker Lautaro Martinez has firmly established himself among the game's elite, consistently surpassing the 20-goal mark in Serie A. Having led Inter to another Scudetto and clinched the Copa America Golden Boot, his relentless goal-scoring makes him one of the deadliest forwards today.
24. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Now dazzling on the left wing for PSG, Kvaratskhelia’s explosive pace and power have tormented defenders across Europe. While trophies keep piling up in Paris, the Georgian winger’s fearless dribbling ensures he remains one of the most electrifying players on the planet.
23. Nuno Mendes
Portugal’s Nuno Mendes has become a defensive cornerstone for PSG, balancing flair with discipline on the flank. Still only 23, he’s already helped secure multiple Ligue 1 titles, a Champions League crown, and the Nations League, staking a claim as one of football’s premier left-backs.
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22. Alisson Becker
Liverpool’s Alisson is the definition of a world-class goalkeeper, blending shot-stopping brilliance with calm distribution. His commanding presence was crucial in Liverpool’s Premier League triumph this season, reinforcing his reputation as arguably the best keeper in the game.
21. Jamal Musiala
A dazzling dribbler and midfield artist, Bayern’s Jamal Musiala continues to mesmerize fans with his direct, fearless style. Having claimed the Bundesliga and topped the Euro scoring charts, he’s rapidly cementing his status among Europe’s brightest young talents.
20. Bukayo Saka
Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka has evolved from a promising talent into one of the most effective wingers in world football. His resilience after Euro 2020 heartbreak and recent role as the Gunners’ creative heartbeat underline just how vital he’s become for club and country.
19. Florian Wirtz
After spearheading Bayer Leverkusen’s title charge and earning back-to-back Bundesliga Player of the Season honors, Wirtz secured a blockbuster move to Liverpool. His mix of goals and creativity makes the German midfielder one of the most sought-after stars in the world.
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18. Declan Rice
Declan Rice has been a colossal presence in Arsenal’s midfield, pairing tireless defensive work with newfound attacking flair. From controlling Champions League nights to winning domestic accolades, the England international keeps raising his game.
17. Joao Neves
PSG’s Joao Neves has matured into one of Europe’s top midfield engines, expertly breaking up play and keeping things ticking. At just 20, the Portuguese dynamo is already a critical piece of Luis Enrique’s dominant side in Paris.
16. Desire Doue
Doue’s stunning Champions League final masterclass proved he’s more than just a flashy winger—he’s a big-game player. The 20-year-old Frenchman combines fearless dribbling with clinical end product, and PSG look set to enjoy his brilliance for years.
15. Rodri
Man City’s midfield general Rodri enjoyed a historic run, winning the Ballon d’Or, leading Spain to Euro glory, and picking up another Premier League title. His injury absence only highlights how irreplaceable he’s become in both Pep Guardiola’s setup and the Spanish national team.
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14. Erling Haaland
Even in a “quiet” year by his astronomical standards, Erling Haaland smashed past 20 goals again and secured another Golden Boot. The towering Norwegian remains the most ruthless finisher in world football, terrorizing Premier League defenses week after week.
13. Vitinha
Once overlooked in England, Vitinha has blossomed into PSG’s midfield heartbeat, orchestrating play with over 50 touches a game. His calm command and relentless work rate were instrumental in their latest Champions League triumph.
12. Virgil Van Dijk
Liverpool’s towering captain Virgil Van Dijk continues to set the standard for elite center-backs. Scoring the winner in the EFL Cup final and anchoring another league title run, he remains one of football’s most imposing defenders.
11. Lionel Messi
Even at 38, Messi still conjures magic in MLS with Inter Miami, adding another Supporters’ Shield and an MLS MVP to his glittering collection. While no longer the best, the Argentine legend’s genius continues to dazzle fans across the globe.
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10. Jude Bellingham
Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham took Spain by storm, winning La Liga Player of the Season and guiding Los Blancos to another Champions League crown. His maturity, goals, and leadership belie his age, marking him as a future Ballon d’Or favorite.
9. Pedri
Barcelona’s midfield maestro Pedri plays with a composure and vision rarely seen at 22. Driving Barça to domestic success and helping Spain conquer Europe, he’s already among the world’s very best in his position.
8. Vinicius Junior
Vinicius Jr delivered his finest season yet, clinching La Liga, the Champions League, and The Best FIFA Men’s Player award. His electrifying runs and clutch goals keep Real Madrid firmly on top of world football.
7. Robert Lewandowski
Even in his mid-30s, Lewandowski remains a goal machine for Barcelona, firing them to a domestic double. His instincts, movement, and killer finishing prove why he’s one of the top 10 scorers in football history.
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6. Harry Kane
Harry Kane’s move to Bayern has elevated his game to new heights, claiming a Bundesliga title and the European Golden Shoe. Despite missing out on Champions League glory, the England striker continues to rack up goals at a breathtaking pace.
5. Raphinha
Raphinha has turned his Barcelona chapter into a redemption story, lighting up Europe with 34 goals and 25 assists last season. From Leeds to the Camp Nou, the Brazilian winger is now one of the most feared attackers anywhere.
4. Kylian Mbappé
After finally joining Real Madrid, Mbappé quickly found his stride, netting over 40 goals across competitions. Though France faltered at the Euros, the French superstar’s devastating speed and scoring touch keep him firmly in the global elite.
3. Mohamed Salah
Salah bounced back from injury and off-field drama to help Liverpool secure another Premier League crown, tallying more than 50 goal contributions. The Egyptian King shows no signs of slowing, signing a new deal to extend his Anfield legacy.
2. Ousmane Dembélé
With Messi and Mbappé gone, Dembélé stepped up to lead PSG to their first Champions League triumph. A staggering 48 goal contributions capped a season that finally fulfilled the electric winger’s immense promise.
1. Lamine Yamal
Barely 17, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is already rewriting records, scoring in every Champions League knockout round and dazzling at Euro 2024. Touted as a future Ballon d’Or winner, his vision and fearlessness set him apart as the best in the world right now.
