The best footballers in the world right now

February 16, 2026 Oliver Obel

European football continues to evolve at a relentless pace, but certain names keep rising above the rest. From teenage prodigies rewriting record books to seasoned superstars refining their legacy, the modern game is stacked with extraordinary talent. Based on performances, silverware and individual impact across the past three seasons, here is a ranked look at the 12 best players in world football right now. Starting from 12 and counting down to number one, these are the game’s defining figures.

12. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona & Poland)

At 37, Robert Lewandowski continues to defy the natural laws that govern most strikers. Written off by some after leaving Bayern Munich, the Polish forward has instead thrived in Spain, spearheading Barcelona’s treble-winning campaign under Hansi Flick with remarkable efficiency. His movement inside the box remains as sharp as ever, and his finishing is still among the most clinical in Europe. Lewandowski’s consistency is no accident — you do not become one of the top goalscorers in football history without relentless professionalism and an elite mentality.

11. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)

Few players have ever arrived at Real Madrid and imposed themselves quite like Jude Bellingham. In his debut season, the England international carried Los Blancos through crucial moments, operating at times as a false nine while delivering decisive goals in both La Liga and the Champions League. Injuries briefly slowed his momentum, but his influence on the pitch remains undeniable. Even at his young age, Bellingham plays with the authority of a seasoned Galactico.

10. Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid & Brazil)

Vinicius Jr has grown from an electrifying prospect into a genuine talisman for Real Madrid. Following Karim Benzema’s departure, the Brazilian embraced greater responsibility and responded with some of the finest performances of his career. On his day, few defenders can cope with his acceleration, trickery and ability to deliver in decisive moments. While his form has fluctuated at times, his ceiling remains frighteningly high, and he continues to shine on the biggest stage.

9. Raphinha (Barcelona & Brazil)

Raphinha’s journey from Leeds United to Barcelona stardom reads like a redemption story. Once considered expendable at Camp Nou, the Brazilian winger has forced his way into the spotlight with a relentless run of goals and assists. His output in 2024/25 was extraordinary, combining creativity with ruthless end product. Now a central figure in Flick’s attacking setup, Raphinha has silenced his doubters in emphatic fashion.

8. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich & France)

Michael Olise’s move to Bayern Munich elevated him to a new level. The Frenchman blends technical elegance with sharp decision-making, making him both a creator and a finisher in equal measure. His numbers in the Bundesliga underline his importance, but it is his intelligence in tight spaces that truly stands out. Still only entering his prime, Olise looks destined to become one of Europe’s defining wide players.

7. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal)

Every great side needs a metronome in midfield, and Vitinha has become exactly that for Paris Saint-Germain. Tireless in possession and constantly demanding the ball, he dictates tempo with quiet authority. His performances during PSG’s Champions League triumph showcased a player who thrives under pressure. Vitinha may not always command headlines, but his influence is fundamental to his team’s dominance.

6. Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain & France)

For years, Ousmane Dembele was labelled a player of untapped potential. Now, he has fully delivered on it. Leading PSG into a new era after the departures of global superstars, the French winger produced a sensational campaign that culminated in Champions League glory and individual accolades. His ambidexterity, unpredictability and clinical edge have made him one of the most feared attackers in Europe.

5. Pedri (Barcelona & Spain)

Pedri plays football with a composure that belies his age. The Barcelona midfielder glides through matches, controlling rhythm and unlocking defences with subtle brilliance. Whether on the domestic stage or under the spotlight of major international tournaments, he consistently rises to the occasion. With maturity beyond his years and endless room to grow, Pedri already feels like the heartbeat of both club and country.

4. Erling Haaland (Manchester City & Norway)

Erling Haaland remains football’s most devastating pure striker. Built like a centre-forward from a blueprint, he combines physical dominance with astonishing movement and predatory instincts. Even when Manchester City falter collectively, Haaland’s goals keep them competitive. His numbers speak for themselves, but it is his relentless hunger that continues to set him apart.

3. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)

Harry Kane’s decision to leave Tottenham for Bayern Munich transformed his career narrative. Already one of the most complete forwards of his generation, he added silverware to his résumé while maintaining staggering goal returns. Kane is not just a finisher; his passing range and football intelligence elevate those around him. Surpassing 500 career goals only reinforces his standing among the modern greats.

2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)

Lamine Yamal’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Still a teenager, he has already become Barcelona’s most decisive attacking force, delivering mature performances in the biggest fixtures. What separates him from many young talents is his decision-making — he consistently chooses the right option under immense pressure. If his trajectory continues, it feels inevitable that the game’s biggest individual prizes will follow.

1. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid & France)

Kylian Mbappé — Marta Fernandez Jimenez // Shutterstock.com

Kylian Mbappe sits alone at the summit. After finally completing his long-anticipated move to Real Madrid, he overcame an inconsistent start to rediscover the devastating form that once defined an era in Paris. His pace, directness and composure in front of goal make him virtually unplayable when in rhythm. In a post-Messi and Ronaldo landscape, Mbappe has firmly established himself as football’s leading superstar.