Ranking the 20 Best English Footballers in the World

March 8, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

English football is experiencing an incredible era with a mix of world-class stars and emerging talents making a significant impact. From seasoned veterans leading their clubs to young players breaking through at the highest level, the depth of English talent has never been stronger.

We have taken a closer look at the best English footballers right now, ranking them based on their performances, influence, and consistency across both club and international football.

20. Jarrod Bowen – West Ham United

Jarrod Bowen has been a key player for West Ham United, consistently delivering goals and assists. His versatility, work rate, and ability to score in crucial moments make him one of the Premier League’s standout forwards.

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19. James Maddison – Tottenham Hotspur

James Maddison has brought creativity and vision to Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield. His ability to dictate play, create chances, and score from distance makes him one of England’s most exciting playmakers.

18. Kobbie Mainoo – Manchester United

Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as one of England’s brightest young midfielders. His composure on the ball, defensive awareness, and technical ability have made him a key figure for Manchester United.

17. Curtis Jones – Liverpool

Curtis Jones has continued to develop into an important midfielder for Liverpool. His ability to drive forward, control possession, and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset in Jürgen Klopp’s system.

16. Lewis Hall – Newcastle United

Lewis Hall, Kieran Trippier — IOIO IMAGES / Shutterstock.com

Lewis Hall has impressed with his versatility and technical ability at Newcastle United. Whether playing in defense or midfield, his composure on the ball and attacking instincts have made him a promising talent.

15. Morgan Gibbs-White – Nottingham Forest

Morgan Gibbs-White has been a creative force for Nottingham Forest. His dribbling, vision, and ability to unlock defenses make him one of England’s most underrated attacking midfielders.

14. Dominic Solanke – Tottenham Hotspur

Dominic Solanke has revitalized his career and become a reliable goal scorer. His physicality, intelligent movement, and finishing ability have made him a key attacking option for Tottenham Hotspur.

13. Jordan Pickford – Everton

Jordan Pickford remains England’s number-one goalkeeper due to his shot-stopping ability and leadership. His distribution and composure under pressure make him a crucial part of Everton’s squad and the national team.

12. Morgan Rogers – Aston Villa

Morgan Rogers has made a name for himself as an exciting young talent at Aston Villa. His pace, technical skills, and ability to impact games have earned him recognition among England’s best young players.

11. Marc Guehi – Crystal Palace

Marc Guehi has developed into one of England’s most reliable defenders. His composure, strong tackling, and leadership at Crystal Palace have made him a contender for a regular spot in the national team.

10. John Stones – Manchester City

John Stones has been a key figure in Manchester City’s defense, excelling with his composure on the ball and ability to step into midfield. His tactical intelligence and defensive awareness make him one of England’s best center-backs.

9. Anthony Gordon – Newcastle United

Anthony Gordon has taken his game to another level at Newcastle United. His blistering pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal have made him a dangerous attacking threat in the Premier League.

8. Phil Foden – Manchester City

Phil Foden continues to be one of the most technically gifted players in England. His close control, creativity, and ability to score important goals make him a vital player for both Manchester City and the national team.

7. Declan Rice – Arsenal

Declan Rice has been a dominant presence in Arsenal’s midfield. His defensive work, ball-winning ability, and leadership make him one of England’s most complete midfielders.

6. Ollie Watkins – Aston Villa

Ollie Watkins has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent strikers. His movement, finishing ability, and tireless work rate have made him a key player for Aston Villa.

5. Trent Alexander-Arnold – Liverpool

Trent Alexander-Arnold remains one of the best right-backs in world football. His passing range, crossing ability, and attacking contributions make him a unique weapon for Liverpool and England.

4. Bukayo Saka – Arsenal

Bukayo Saka has developed into one of England’s most dangerous wingers. His dribbling, creativity, and goal-scoring ability make him a key figure for Arsenal and the national team.

3. Cole Palmer – Chelsea

Cole Palmer has had a breakthrough season at Chelsea, showing incredible composure and technical ability. His ability to score goals and create chances has made him one of England’s most exciting young talents.

2. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid

Jude Bellingham has become one of the best midfielders in the world at Real Madrid. His physicality, intelligence, and goal-scoring ability set him apart as a generational talent.

1. Harry Kane – Bayern Munich

Harry Kane remains England’s best footballer and one of the world’s top strikers. His finishing, link-up play, and leadership make him the centerpiece of both Bayern Munich and the England national team.