The 25 Best Football Players in the World in 2025 – Ranked
Every season, football sees new stars rise while established names continue to prove their greatness. The 2024/25 season has been no different, with a mix of young talents and experienced veterans dominating the sport.
Some players have made headlines with their incredible performances in the Champions League, while others have been key figures in their domestic leagues, leading their clubs to success. With football becoming more competitive than ever, determining the best players in the world is no easy task.
We’ve taken a closer look at the top performers this season and this is our take on the 25 best football players in the world right now.
25. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
The Georgian winger has been one of the most electrifying dribblers in European football. After an impressive stint at Napoli, he made a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2025, where he continues to dazzle with his quick feet, creativity, and goal-scoring ability.
Read also: The 25 Best Strikers in World Football Right Now - Ranked from Lowest to Highest
24. Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
The Swedish striker has developed into one of the Premier League’s deadliest forwards. His combination of pace, technical skill, and finishing ability makes him a key figure in Newcastle’s attack.
23. Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid)
Despite being in the later stages of his career, Griezmann remains an integral part of Atlético Madrid and the French national team. His versatility and footballing intelligence allow him to be effective in multiple roles.
22. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
The Inter Milan captain has been a consistent goal threat in Serie A and Europe. His link-up play, movement, and ability to score in big moments keep him among the world’s elite strikers.
21. Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid)
A defensive rock for Real Madrid, Rüdiger has been a crucial presence in their backline. His physicality, leadership, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him one of the best center-backs in the world.
Read also: The 10 Managers with most points per game in Champions League
20. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Since joining Arsenal, Rice has elevated his game to another level. His ability to control the midfield, break up attacks, and contribute offensively has solidified his place among the elite.
19. Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
The Arsenal captain continues to shine as one of the Premier League’s best playmakers. His vision, creativity, and leadership have been instrumental in Arsenal’s resurgence as a top European club.
18. Alisson Becker (Liverpool)
Arguably the best goalkeeper in the world, Alisson remains a key figure for Liverpool. His shot-stopping ability, command of the box, and composure make him an invaluable presence between the posts.
17. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
The Uruguayan midfielder is known for his incredible work rate, versatility, and ability to score stunning long-range goals. He has become a key part of Real Madrid’s midfield dominance.
16. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)
The German playmaker has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in world football. His dribbling, passing, and goal-scoring ability have helped Bayer Leverkusen compete at the highest level.
15. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
A complete midfielder, Kimmich is Bayern Munich’s engine. His intelligence, passing, and defensive ability make him one of the best all-around players in the game.
14. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
One of the breakout stars of recent seasons, Palmer has become Chelsea’s main attacking force. His technical ability, composure, and eye for goal have made him one of the Premier League’s standout players.
13. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Saka continues to impress with his consistency and ability to perform in big games. The Arsenal winger is a dynamic attacking force who can score and create goals with ease.
Read also: The 20 Best Goalkeepers in the World Right Now - Ranked
12. William Saliba (Arsenal)
A commanding presence at the back, Saliba has been a defensive leader for Arsenal. His calmness on the ball and ability to read the game make him one of the best defenders in the world.
11. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
The Bayern Munich midfielder possesses incredible dribbling ability and creativity. His close control and ability to unlock defenses make him one of the most dangerous young players in the game.
10. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Despite competition in Barcelona’s attack, Raphinha has established himself as a key player. His pace, trickery, and ability to deliver in crucial moments keep him in the elite category.
9. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
Still one of the best defenders in world football, Van Dijk continues to dominate with his leadership, aerial ability, and composure under pressure.
Read also: The Top Penalty Scorers in Europe’s Big Five Leagues This Season
8. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
The English midfielder has quickly become a superstar for Real Madrid. His ability to control the game, score crucial goals, and perform in high-stakes matches sets him apart.
7. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
The teenage sensation has taken Barcelona and the world by storm. His dribbling, creativity, and composure at such a young age make him one of the most exciting prospects in football.
6. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
A goal-scoring machine, Haaland continues to break records with his incredible finishing and physical dominance. He remains the most feared striker in the game.
5. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
Even at 36, Lewandowski remains one of the best goal scorers in the world. His positioning, experience, and finishing ability keep him among the elite.
4. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Kane has seamlessly adapted to Bayern Munich, continuing to be a prolific goal scorer and playmaker. His all-around game has taken his career to another level.
3. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappé is at the peak of his powers. His pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability make him one of the most complete forwards in the game.
2. Vinícius Junior (Real Madrid)
The Brazilian winger has taken his game to another level, becoming Real Madrid’s most dangerous attacking player. His ability to beat defenders and deliver in clutch moments is unmatched.
1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
At No. 1, Mohamed Salah remains the best player in the world in 2025. His consistency, goal-scoring ability, and leadership at Liverpool keep him at the top of the footballing pyramid. Even as new stars emerge, Salah continues to dominate at the highest level.
