Who is the Best Football Players in the World?

The debate over the best football player in the world has long been dominated by names such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. As the torchbearers of an era gracefully make way for a new generation, the question remains the same. Everyone has a different perspective about who are the best football players in the world. Fans always consider their favourite football player the best. This write-up will explore some of the best players that many people consider the god of football.

List of 23 Best Football Players of All Time

Now, let’s explore some names that frequently emerge in discussions about the best football players in the world.

1. Kylian Mbappe: A Megastar in the Making

In the ever-evolving landscape of football, Kylian Mbappé emerges as a frontrunner for the coveted title. Mbappé, often likened to a dramatic soap character in the ongoing saga between PSG and Real Madrid, has transcended the boundaries of Ligue 1. His international heroics, notably the World Cup final hat-trick, cement his status as a big-time player capable of delivering in the grandest stages.

The 25-year-old possesses a unique blend of speed and shooting technique that sets him apart. Whether striking the ball on the run or unleashing a powerful shot from a dead-standing start, Mbappé’s ability to punish opponents is unparalleled. As his career potentially takes a shift to Real Madrid, the football world awaits to witness Mbappé’s continued ascent and why he stands atop the hierarchy in 2024.

2. Harry Kane: The Natural No.9

Amid the mystique of foreign leagues, Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich has laid bare the undeniable truth of his world-class talent. The Premier League’s loss has become the Bundesliga’s gain as Kane consistently notches tallies around the 30-goal mark.

Kane’s finishing, exceptional positioning, and playmaking prowess have been on full display, even in a Tottenham team that often struggled to match his standards. As he sets the Bundesliga ablaze, Kane’s impact transcends borders, affirming his status as a football virtuoso.

3. Erling Haaland: The Norse Titan

Erling Haaland, the Norse god of football, has redefined expectations with his abnormal goal-scoring feats. Despite facing injury setbacks, Haaland’s ability to find the net at an astonishing rate in the Premier League has become the new standard. His physicality, finishing prowess, and explosive pace make him a formidable force, with the promise of even greater heights in the coming years.

Haaland’s impact goes beyond statistical achievements, as he normalises the abnormal and sets the bar impossibly high.

4. Mohamed Salah: Transitioning to Legendary Status

As football transitions, Mohamed Salah is navigating his way from an elite Premier League player to an all-time legendary figure. The Egyptian King’s consistency remains remarkable, with impressive goal tallies across seasons. Salah’s seemingly simple playing style, characterised by touchline-hugging runs and direct drives, bewilders defenders.

Salah’s availability, combined with his elusive playing style, makes him a perennial threat. If he maintains his goal-scoring prowess, Salah is poised to achieve the remarkable feat of 200 Premier League goals, solidifying his status as a legendary winger.

5. Jude Bellingham: The Complete Midfield Package

Considered by some as a season too soon, Jude Bellingham has already proven his obscene talent at Dortmund and Real Madrid. His dynamic, all-action presence transformed him from a teenage wildcard to an instant starter for England at the World Cup 2022. Bellingham’s physicality, ball-carrying ability, and precision passing make him the complete midfield package.

Bellingham’s move to Real Madrid adds another layer to his burgeoning career, and his trajectory suggests that he is a generational talent. As he dons Zinedine Zidane’s No.5 shirt, Bellingham is undeniably a player to watch, poised for greatness at Euro 2024.

6. Kevin De Bruyne: The High-Spec Footballer

Kevin De Bruyne’s high-spec footballer credentials set him apart in the world of football. Despite experiencing a relatively lukewarm season in 2022/23, De Bruyne’s ability to create goals, score, and dominate matches remains unparalleled. The Belgian’s lethal set-piece taking, unexpected physicality, and an insatiable taste for winning make him a multi-layered box of tricks.

De Bruyne’s strong end to the 2023/24 season could propel him further up the list, reaffirming his status as one of the greatest crossers of a ball in Premier League history.

7. Vinicius Jr: Real Madrid’s Venomous Threat

As Real Madrid shed its ageing skin, Vinicius Jr emerges as an equally evil threat on the field. With over 200 appearances for the club since 2018, the 23-year-old possesses scorching pace, dynamite acceleration, and quickness of feet that rival any player in the world. Vinicius Jr’s ability to harness speed with ball control positions him as a player capable of claiming the top spot in the years to come. So, when it comes to who are the best football players in the world, Vinicius Jr is one name that instantly pops up in the minds of many football lovers.

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8. Rodri: Manchester City’s Maestro

Rodri, the heartbeat of Manchester City, orchestrates the midfield with a blend of strength, skill, and tactical understanding. His tall, strong, physical presence provides the muscle City requires in a combative midfielder, while his grace, skill, and drive allow him to drift high up the pitch. Rodri’s knack for scoring critical goals in crucial moments and an impressive undefeated streak for City showcase his indispensable role in the best team in world football.

9. Lautaro Martinez: The Emerging Striker

A newcomer to the top 10, Lautaro Martinez has consistently haunted defenders with his dogged, tenacious attitude and clinical finishing abilities. The Inter Milan striker’s resemblance to the retired Sergio Aguero is evident in his physicality beyond his size and an impressive goal-scoring record. Martinez’s ability to navigate the challenges of a tough Serie A season, hovering around a goal per game, marks him as an emerging striker with the potential to climb the ranks in the football hierarchy.

10. German Cano: The Goal-Scoring Maestro

At 36 years old, German Cano defies age with his exceptional goal-scoring prowess. Currently playing for Fluminense, Cano’s impact goes beyond his age, with six crucial goals this season, including a hat-trick in the Copa Libertadores semi-finals.

11. Alisson Becker: The Goalkeeping Great

Arguably the most outstanding goalkeeper in Premier League history, Alisson Becker continues to exhibit stunning form at Liverpool. His recent performances have reached new heights, with notable saves that defy belief. The defining moment, a remarkable goal in the Tottenham-Liverpool game, underscores his exceptional skills not just as a shot-stopper but as a game-changer.

12. Bruno Guimaraes: Newcastle’s Midfield Dynamo

Newcastle United’s resurgence owes much to the superb performances of Bruno Guimaraes. After a shaky start to the 2023/24 campaign, Guimaraes has been a driving force in midfield. His influence is such that the Magpies rewarded him with a new bumper five-year deal, recognising his pivotal role in their turnaround.

13. Son Heung-min: Tottenham’s Dynamic Captain

The former Robin, now the Batman at Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min has seamlessly transitioned into a leadership role. His six goals in seven Premier League appearances, including a crucial brace in the North London derby, highlight his impact. Son’s attacking prowess and leadership qualities have propelled Tottenham to the top of the Premier League, making him a key figure in their title pursuit.

14. William Saliba: Defensive Prodigy

William Saliba’s defensive prowess has shone brightly in the early months of the 2023/24 season. The Arsenal defender’s standout moment came when he restricted Erling Haaland to zero shots in a game against Manchester City. Following a breakout 2022/23 season, Saliba continues to impress with his tenacity, positioning, and ability to neutralise top-class attackers.

15. Lionel Messi: The Timeless Maestro

Lionel Messi, often considered the greatest footballer of all time, finds himself lower on the list due to injury setbacks. Despite missing several games since mid-September, Messi’s impact is undeniable. His return to full fitness promises a resurgence, and his previous seasons, marked by mesmerising goals and individual brilliance, secure his place among the footballing elite. Many football lovers consider Messi is the god of football and often compare with another football champ, Cristiano Ronaldo.

16. Leroy Sane: World-Class Renaissance

Leroy Sane’s transformation into a genuinely world-class player is evident this season. The connection he’s forged with Harry Kane at Bayern Munich has elevated his game, leading to a career-best goal-scoring form. With seven goals in all competitions, Sane’s contribution showcases his newfound prowess and importance to Bayern’s attacking dynamics.

17. Declan Rice: Arsenal’s Midfield Enforcer

The £105m signing from West Ham, Declan Rice, has seamlessly adapted to life at Arsenal. The midfielder’s performances have lived up to the high expectations set by his hefty price tag. Rice’s standout displays in crucial wins over Manchester City and Manchester United highlight his influence in the heart of Arsenal’s midfield.

18. Victor Boniface: Bayer Leverkusen’s Sensation

Thanks to Xabi Alonso’s managerial brilliance, Victor Boniface has emerged as a sensation at Bayer Leverkusen. Signed for just £17m, Boniface has already exceeded expectations with seven goals and two assists, propelling Leverkusen to the top of the Bundesliga.

19. James Maddison: Tottenham’s Creative Dynamo

The Premier League signing of the summer, James Maddison, has become the primary creative force in a thrilling Tottenham team. With five assists already, Maddison’s vision and playmaking abilities have added a new dimension to Tottenham’s attack.

20. Cristiano Ronaldo: Eternal Goal-Scoring Phenom

No matter where he is, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy age and score goals. In his 22nd season as a professional footballer, Ronaldo has already netted 17 goals in 17 games for Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr. The 39-year-old is always compared with Messi. This men comes at the top of the list when people question who are the best football players in the world. His name is also mentioned in the players list of Goat of Football.

21. Santiago Gimenez: Striking Sensation

Thanks to his remarkable goal-scoring exploits, Santiago Gimenez has attracted interest from top European clubs. Representing Feyenoord, Gimenez’s hat-trick and assist against Ajax turned heads across Europe. With 17 goal contributions in this campaign, Gimenez’s rise to prominence is marked by consistent excellence and the potential for a future among football’s elite.

22. Serhou Guirassy: Bundesliga’s Goal Machine

Serhou Guirassy’s goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga defy expectations, placing him ahead of iconic names. With an astounding 13 goals in just seven appearances for Stuttgart, Guirassy has become a force to be reckoned with. His remarkable stat line, coupled with the unexpected nature of his goal-scoring spree, makes him a standout performer in the current season.

23. Rodri: Manchester City’s Indispensable Midfielder

Two stats define Rodri’s importance to Manchester City – the team’s undefeated record in games he features in and their losses in games he doesn’t. As the mainstay in City’s midfield, Rodri’s influence is crucial in orchestrating the team’s success. His strength, skill, and tactical understanding position him as the maestro behind Manchester City’s dominance.

Also Read: 15 World’s Richest Football Clubs and the Contributing Factors

The Metrics of Greatness

Before discussing debates, it’s pivotal to establish what makes a football player great. Is it raw talent? Career longevity? Influence on the game? Or perhaps all of these combined?

1. Skill and Technique

Skill and technique are at the heart of football greatness. The elegance of dribbling, precision in passing, and mastery in shooting are what make a player stand out. The finest players convert impossibilities into seamless actions, thus charming fans worldwide. Who doesn’t remember moments where a simple flick or breathtaking volley changes the course of a match?

2. Consistency and Longevity

In sports, consistency defines legends. Many players shine brightly during their prime, but only a handful maintain excellence over decades. Longevity ensures that a player’s influence isn’t fleeting but becomes a cornerstone in the sport’s history.

3. Influence and Legacy

Influence goes beyond the field. It’s about shaping the future of the game, inspiring generations, and transcending rivalry lines. Every time a young player emulates their style or takes inspiration from their dedication, the legend’s influence is reinforced.

4. International Performance

A test of true greatness is performing on the world stage. International competitions like the FIFA World Cup are arenas where legends are born, and teams rally around exceptional leadership and skill.

Rising Star of Present Times

While discussing the best football player in the world, looking towards the future is crucial. New talents continue to emerge, ready to create their legacy.

Erling Haaland

Haaland scores goals with robotic regularity—a relentless striker known for strength and speed. His journey through clubs has been marked by breaking records and making history. Fans, pundits, and managers worldwide watch eagerly as he blazes new paths.

Evaluating Through Statistical Lens

Statistics provide a lens through which to critically assess potential candidates for the title.

1. Goals and Assists

Many argue that football isn’t solely defined by numbers, goals, and assists, which are undeniable factors. Messi and Ronaldo, for instance, have scored over 700 club career goals each—an extraordinary feat.

2. Individual Awards

Awards like the Ballon d’Or, given to the best player of the year, highlight individual excellence. Messi’s record-breaking seven Ballon d’Or victories and Ronaldo’s five are testaments to their prolonged dominance.

3. Team Achievements

Ultimately, Football is a team sport. Champions League victories, league titles, and international trophies elevate a player’s stature. Leaders in championship teams underscore their tactical influence and leadership abilities.

Conclusion

An array of extraordinary talents graces the football world, each leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game. As these football virtuosos continue to dazzle audiences with their prowess, the race for the title of the world’s best player remains a thrilling journey marked by brilliance, consistency, and the promise of greatness. People will keep considering their favourite players the god of football, but the truth is it’s a never ending quest. The narratives of these twenty players intertwine, forming a rich tapestry that adds to the captivating allure of football, ensuring that the quest for excellence on the global stage remains an exhilarating spectacle for fans worldwide.

FAQs about Best Football Players in the World