Santigao Gimenez, Jonathan David, Pulisic

ONCACAF’s Elite: Ranking the Region’s Best Players Right Now

September 27, 2025 Oliver Obel

With the 2026 World Cup now less than 500 days away, the focus on North and Central America’s brightest stars has never been sharper. The region is entering its golden era, with more players than ever shining in Europe’s top leagues and in MLS. The United States, Canada, Mexico, and Jamaica all boast stars capable of changing matches at the highest level, making the debate over who is the best player in CONCACAF a lively one.
This ranking looks at the form of these players for both club and country, considering their impact, consistency, and ability to rise in big games. It’s a fascinating mix: established names who remain at the top of their powers, young stars breaking through, and a few whose recent form has forced them into the conversation. Here are the top 12 players ruling CONCACAF right now.

12. Tyler Adams – USMNT

Adams has finally returned from injury and is already stabilizing Bournemouth’s midfield after a difficult spell on the sidelines. His leadership and tactical intelligence were sorely missed for both club and country.
Known as the USMNT’s “glue guy,” Adams provides defensive cover, breaks up play, and keeps possession ticking over. His return could be a decisive factor for the U.S. as they build toward the Nations League and Copa America.

11. Folarin Balogun – USMNT

Florian Balogun — Victor Velter / Shutterstock.com

Balogun has been in lethal form for AS Monaco, scoring 14 goals in all competitions and becoming one of Ligue 1’s most dangerous strikers. His ability to find space in the box and calmly finish has made him indispensable for his club.
For the USMNT, Balogun represents a new era — a striker who can go toe-to-toe with elite European defenders. If he continues this trajectory, he could lock down the No. 9 spot for years to come.

10. Leon Bailey – Jamaica

Bailey has been one of the Premier League’s most electrifying wingers this season, playing a major role in Aston Villa’s push for a top-four finish. His seven goals and six assists have come at crucial moments, often deciding games.
What makes Bailey so dangerous is his ability to beat defenders one-on-one and create space where none exists. Jamaica will rely heavily on him in upcoming qualifiers, as he remains their undisputed star.

9. Tim Weah – USMNT

Timothy Weah — ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Now playing for Marseille, Weah has added another layer to his game by excelling in a hybrid winger-wingback role. His work rate and ability to adapt to multiple positions make him an invaluable asset.
Though his goal tally isn’t high, his off-ball movement and pressing help unlock space for teammates. For the USMNT, Weah’s versatility gives Gregg Berhalter tactical flexibility in big tournaments.

8. Matt Turner – USMNT

Turner’s return to the New England Revolution has brought stability and leadership to the club after his European stint. He remains a dependable last line of defense, pulling off key saves at crucial moments.
For the U.S., Turner continues to be the undisputed No. 1, commanding his box well and organizing the defense. His experience will be crucial as the team navigates high-pressure matches in 2025 and beyond.

7. Josh Sargent – USMNT

Sargent is enjoying one of the best scoring runs of his career, netting 11 goals in 21 games for Norwich City. Seven of those goals have come since late January, proving he’s hitting top form at the right time.
His improved confidence in front of goal has made him a strong candidate to start for the USMNT. If he can carry this momentum into the Nations League, he may cement himself as the striker to lead the line.

6. Santi Giménez – Mexico

Giménez’s big move to AC Milan has not slowed him down — in fact, it’s elevated him. With three goals in his first eight games, including one in the Champions League against Feyenoord, he’s proving he belongs at the top level.
His movement and physical presence make him a nightmare for defenders, and he looks poised to become Mexico’s main man up front. If his form continues, he could be Mexico’s most important player by 2026.

5. Alphonso Davies – Canada

Davies continues to be Canada’s crown jewel, locking down the left side for Bayern Munich and terrorizing defenders with his speed. He has contributed two goals and three assists this season, maintaining his usual high level.
Even though he drops one spot this month due to others’ form, Davies remains one of the most dynamic fullbacks in the world. Canada’s success in 2026 will hinge on his ability to stay healthy and lead by example.

4. Weston McKennie – USMNT

McKennie has been one of Juventus’ most consistent performers this season, captaining the team on several occasions. He’s played multiple roles — from midfield anchor to box-to-box dynamo — and excelled in each.
For the USMNT, McKennie’s leadership and physicality make him one of the first names on the team sheet. His ability to control games on both sides of the ball has pushed him up this ranking.

3. Antonee Robinson – USMNT

Robinson has been outstanding for Fulham, registering 10 assists in the Premier League — second only to Mohamed Salah. His pace, overlapping runs, and defensive intelligence have made him one of England’s best fullbacks this season.
Defensively solid and a constant attacking threat, Robinson is peaking at just the right time. His consistency ensures he stays near the top of this list.

2. Jonathan David – Canada

David’s summer 2025 transfer to Juventus is one of the most exciting moves in recent memory for Canadian soccer. He leaves Lille after back-to-back 26-goal seasons and heads to Serie A at the peak of his powers.
His ability to score against Europe’s biggest clubs has made him one of the most sought-after strikers in the world. Canada will hope his step up to a Champions League contender takes his game to an even higher level.

1. Christian Pulisic – USMNT

Pulisic remains the undisputed king of CONCACAF, with 12 goals and nine assists for AC Milan this season. Despite Milan’s struggles, he’s been their main man, creating and finishing goals at a high rate.
For the USMNT, Pulisic is Captain America — the heartbeat of the team and its most decisive player. If he can lead the U.S. to Nations League glory this month, his grip on the top spot will only tighten.