25 Best Footballers in the World (2025)

Football is an ever-changing meritocracy and, therefore, deciding the best player in the world at any precise moment is a difficult challenge.

That title could theoretically change hands after any given match depending on the level of performance an individual footballer has produced, and yet allowing opinions to change with such volatility would lead to nothing but subjective anarchy.

Football, by nature, is an evolving sport, and ranking the best player in the world at any given time is no easy feat.

This ranking can change from one match to the next, depending on a player's form.

However, consistency, impact on their team, and success in major competitions play a significant role in evaluating a player’s standing.

The following list highlights 25 of the world's single football players 2025, with an emphasis on their abilities, achievements, and contributions.

Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid and France)

Griezmann's resurgence at Atletico Madrid has solidified his place as one of the world's top players. After overcoming a challenging spell at Barcelona, he has rediscovered his top form, playing a pivotal role for both club and country.

Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan and Argentina)

The Argentine forward continues to shine with consistent goal-scoring performances, proving to be an instrumental figure for Inter Milan in Serie A and on the international stage.

Phil Foden (Manchester City and England)

Foden’s growth under Pep Guardiola has been remarkable, making him one of the brightest young talents in world football. His ability to score and create assists consistently makes him a key player for Manchester City and England.

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City and Belgium)

Despite battling injuries, De Bruyne remains one of the most gifted playmakers in the game. His vision and creativity in setting up goals continue to make him a standout player for Manchester City.

Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid and Germany)

Since joining Real Madrid, Rudiger has emerged as one of the top central defenders in the world. His leadership and defensive prowess were critical in Los Blancos’ recent successes.

Declan Rice (Arsenal and England)

Rice has become a vital part of Arsenal’s midfield, contributing both defensively and offensively. His consistency and growing influence have made him one of the top midfielders in world football.

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Alisson Becker (Liverpool and Brazil)

Alisson’s shot-stopping and ability to control the game from the back make him one of the best goalkeepers in the world, consistently crucial for Liverpool.

Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany)

Wirtz played a crucial role in Bayer Leverkusen’s title-winning season and continues to impress with his goal contributions, further solidifying his place among the best in the world.

Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal and Norway)

As Arsenal’s captain, Ødegaard leads by example both on and off the ball. His ability to dictate play and create opportunities makes him one of the top midfielders in the world.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea and England)

Palmer’s performances since moving to Chelsea have earned him recognition as one of the breakout stars of the season, with impressive contributions both domestically and internationally.

William Saliba (Arsenal and France)

Saliba’s defensive solidity has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s resurgence. His consistency and leadership on the field make him one of the best defenders in world football.

Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich and Germany)

Musiala is renowned for his dribbling and creativity. He continues to develop as one of the most exciting young talents in football, regularly dazzling fans with his flair.

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal and England)

Saka’s resilience and growth have been remarkable since his tough moments in Euro 2020. Now, he is one of the top wingers in the world, known for his creativity and composure in front of goal.

Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool and the Netherlands)

Van Dijk remains one of the most dominant centre-backs in the world, and his leadership at the back is essential for Liverpool’s defensive stability.

Lionel Messi (Inter Miami and Argentina)

Messi may no longer be playing in Europe, but his legacy remains intact. Despite being in the twilight of his career, he continues to produce magical moments for Inter Miami and Argentina.

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Raphinha (Barcelona and Brazil)

Raphinha’s consistent performances at Barcelona have helped him earn his place among the world's best. His recent form has been instrumental in Barcelona's success in domestic and international competitions.

Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid and England)

Bellingham’s immediate impact at Real Madrid has been nothing short of extraordinary. At a young age, he has already proven to be one of the most talented and influential midfielders in world football.

These players represent a blend of experience, skill, and consistency, with their performances setting them apart from the rest of the football world in 2025.

His statistics up until this point are just as good as Lionel Messi's prime years, and the Egyptian King has never looked more like a man on a mission. He might be out of contract in the summer, but that outside noise has done very little to stop the winger from tearing the continent apart in his hopes of adding a second Premier League and Champions League crown to his overflowing trophy cabinet.