Gundogan, Mohamed Salah, Antonio Rudiger

Ramadan is Underway: Ranking the Best Muslim Footballers Right Now

March 12, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

As the holy month of Ramadan is observed worldwide, many top footballers are fasting while continuing to perform at the highest level. From intense training sessions to competitive matches, these athletes balance their faith with their professional commitments. Here’s a look at some of the best Muslim footballers who are observing Ramadan this year.

19. Said Benrahma

The Algerian winger is known for his dribbling skills and creativity in attack. With his agility and technical ability, he continues to be a key player, contributing with goals and assists while observing Ramadan.

18. Ismaïla Sarr

Sarr’s explosive pace and eye for goal make him a dangerous winger. The Senegalese forward has a reputation for tormenting defenders, and despite fasting, his performances remain energetic and impactful.

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17. Emre Can

A versatile midfielder with a strong physical presence, Can plays a crucial role in midfield, dictating play and breaking up opposition attacks. His discipline on the field reflects the dedication he brings to his faith during Ramadan.

16. Kurt Zouma

A dominant defender, Zouma’s aerial ability and defensive awareness make him a reliable presence at the back. Even while fasting, he remains focused and continues to deliver strong performances.

15. Edin Džeko

Despite being one of the older players on this list, Džeko remains a clinical striker. His leadership and finishing ability are crucial, and he continues to showcase his quality while observing Ramadan.

14. Noussair Mazraoui

A skilled right-back, Mazraoui is known for his attacking contributions and defensive stability. His ability to maintain high energy levels throughout matches is a testament to his dedication, both to football and his faith.

13. Hakim Ziyech

Ziyech is an elegant playmaker with a lethal left foot. His vision and passing range allow him to create chances effortlessly, proving that fasting does not affect his creativity on the pitch.

12. Ibrahima Konaté

A physically imposing defender, Konaté is a key presence in defense. His speed, strength, and ability to read the game make him one of the best young defenders in football today.

11. Thomas Partey

A midfield powerhouse, Partey is known for his ball-winning ability and composure under pressure. His tactical intelligence and versatility make him an essential player, even while fasting during Ramadan.

10. Granit Xhaka

Xhaka is a leader on and off the pitch. His precise passing, aggressive tackling, and ability to control the tempo of the game make him an invaluable asset, showing no signs of fatigue despite fasting.

9. Karim Benzema

The French striker remains one of the most prolific forwards in world football. His technical brilliance, movement, and ability to score from any angle make him a nightmare for defenders, even while balancing his faith and career.

8. Sadio Mané

A player with incredible work ethic, Mané’s pace and direct style make him a constant threat. His humility and commitment to both football and his faith have made him a role model for young Muslim athletes.

7. Riyad Mahrez

Mahrez’s dribbling ability and finesse make him a joy to watch. His composure in front of goal and his ability to change games with a single moment of brilliance highlight his world-class quality.

6. Achraf Hakimi

One of the best right-backs in modern football, Hakimi’s speed and attacking instincts are unmatched. He seamlessly balances his defensive responsibilities with his contributions in attack, all while observing Ramadan.

5. Antonio Rüdiger

A rock in defense, Rüdiger’s aggression and leadership make him an integral part of any team. His dedication to fitness and training ensures that fasting does not impact his dominant performances.

4. Ilkay Gündoğan

İlkay Gündoğan — Photo: Oleksandr Osipov / Shutterstock.com

A midfield maestro, Gündoğan’s intelligence, passing, and goal-scoring ability make him one of the most complete midfielders in the game. His professionalism and faith go hand in hand as he continues to shine.

3. Ousmane Dembélé

Blessed with incredible speed and dribbling ability, Dembélé is a constant threat to defenses. His unpredictable style and two-footed ability make him one of the most exciting wingers in the world.

2. Leroy Sané

A devastating winger, Sané’s pace and technical skill allow him to create and score goals with ease. His performances remain top-level, proving that fasting does not hinder his explosiveness on the pitch.

1. Mohamed Salah

The ultimate professional, Salah is the best Muslim footballer in the world today. His relentless goal-scoring ability, work rate, and leadership make him an inspiration to millions. Despite fasting, he continues to perform at the highest level, setting the standard for excellence in football.