In a football world that celebrates youth and pace, a select group of seasoned professionals are still proving their worth at the very top. These 25 players, all aged 31 and above, continue to shine on the biggest stages. Here’s our countdown of the best veterans in world football in 2025.
25. Luka Modrić – 39
Even at 39, Luka Modrić remains a calm and composed presence in Real Madrid’s midfield. His ability to control the rhythm of a match is unmatched, and his leadership is invaluable in high-stakes moments.
24. Romelu Lukaku – 32
Lukaku continues to impose himself physically in Serie A with Napoli. Despite a slight decline in pace, his strength and instinct inside the box remain dangerous.
23. David Soria – 32
The Spanish goalkeeper is a consistent performer for Getafe in La Liga. At 32, he brings stability and experience to a side that often relies on defensive resilience.
22. Hakan Çalhanoğlu – 31
A specialist in long-range strikes and set pieces, Çalhanoğlu dictates play for Inter Milan. His intelligence in midfield makes him a key part of their buildup play.
21. Ederson – 31
Still one of the most composed goalkeepers under pressure, Ederson is crucial for Manchester City’s buildup play. His precise passing sets him apart from others in his position.
20. Antoine Griezmann – 34
Griezmann’s tireless work ethic and spatial awareness keep him effective at Atlético Madrid. His experience and vision offer both attacking threat and defensive balance.
19. Dan Burn – 33
A towering figure in Newcastle’s back line, Dan Burn offers versatility and aerial strength. He’s known for his no-nonsense defending and consistent performances.
18. Berat Djimsiti – 32
Djimsiti plays a crucial role in Atalanta’s defensive line. His positioning and tactical understanding make him a reliable presence in the back three.
17. Amir Rrahmani – 31
Rrahmani anchors Napoli’s defense with quiet consistency. His clearances, blocks, and leadership under pressure have been crucial to their solidity.
16. Mateo Kovačić – 31
Kovačić has slotted in seamlessly at Manchester City, offering fluidity between defense and attack. His dribbling and calm presence in tight spaces make him a dependable midfielder.
15. Giovanni Di Lorenzo – 31
Napoli’s right-back brings consistency and effort down the flank. His overlaps and defensive work rate are critical to the team’s balanced play.
14. Henrikh Mkhitaryan – 36
Still contributing at the highest level with Inter, Mkhitaryan’s vision and technique make him a valuable asset. His ability to control tempo and create space is a testament to his experience.
13. Andrew Robertson – 31
Robertson’s relentless energy and accurate crosses remain a cornerstone of Liverpool’s left side. He continues to lead by example, both defensively and going forward.
12. Virgil van Dijk – 33
Van Dijk remains a defensive commander at Liverpool. His reading of the game and composure on the ball are as strong as ever.
11. Daniel Carvajal – 33
Carvajal continues to deliver at right-back for Real Madrid. His experience and tactical acumen are vital to their defensive unit.
10. Alisson – 32
Alisson remains a vital figure in Liverpool’s defensive structure. His composure, reflexes, and ball distribution continue to rank among the best in the world.
9. Heung-min Son – 32
Son remains Tottenham’s primary attacking outlet. His pace, finishing, and two-footed ability make him a threat against any opponent.
8. Granit Xhaka – 32
Xhaka has revitalized his career at Bayer Leverkusen, offering grit and leadership in midfield. His passing and aggression provide structure to the team.
7. Marten de Roon – 34
A tireless worker for Atalanta, de Roon is central to their pressing and midfield control. He brings defensive cover and ball-winning ability in abundance.
6. İlkay Gündoğan – 34
Gündoğan is still a technical maestro in midfield, capable of unlocking defenses with one pass. His timing and vision remain top class.
5. Thomas Müller – 35
Müller continues to be Bayern Munich’s master of space and timing. Even without blazing speed, his intelligence and link-up play remain unmatched.
4. Kevin De Bruyne – 33
De Bruyne’s passing and creativity continue to drive Manchester City forward. His leadership and big-game presence remain irreplaceable.
3. Harry Kane – 31
Kane has adapted well to life in Germany, continuing to score consistently for Bayern Munich. His ability to drop deep and create plays makes him unique among strikers.
2. Robert Lewandowski – 36
Lewandowski shows few signs of slowing down as Barcelona’s go-to finisher. His positioning, finishing, and fitness levels remain elite.
1. Mohamed Salah – 32
Salah tops the list thanks to his consistent output and explosive style. Even at 32, he remains one of the most feared attackers in Europe.
