Football is a dynamic and competitive sport, making it incredibly challenging to pinpoint the best player in the world at any given time. That honour could theoretically shift after any match, depending on a player’s performance. However, constantly changing opinions based on single games would lead to chaos and endless debates, making it essential to establish consistent criteria for such assessments.
For players considered in this elite category, the focus shifts to undeniable evidence of exceptional form—whether through goals, assists, defensive solidity, or overall influence on the pitch. Equally important is the calibre of opposition faced and the significance of the competitions where those performances occurred. Ultimately, individual brilliance must be accompanied by tangible achievements; trophies and team success often separate great players from the very best.
Here is the top 10 Best players in the world (2025)
10. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) 🇩🇪
2024-25: 15 goals, 11 assists. Won DFL-Supercup.
Florian Wirtz made a big impression by earning his first Ballon d’Or nomination in 2024, and the 21-year-old looks set to remain a key figure in the conversation for years to come. Continuing the form he showcased at the end of last season, his displays in the Champions League have been especially striking this campaign.
However, Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso seem less dominant domestically compared to last season’s Bundesliga triumph. For Wirtz to elevate his standing further, he may need to deliver even more extraordinary performances.
9. Cole Palmer (Chelsea) 🏴
2024-25: 12 goals, 6 assists.
Many consider Cole Palmer the standout performer in the Premier League right now. Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s resurgence has coincided with Palmer taking his game to another level.
After being shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Palmer is on track for a repeat nomination. However, Chelsea’s absence from the Champions League might hinder his chances of making a more serious push for the top honours this year.
8. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) 🇫🇷
2024-25: 14 goals, 4 assists. Won UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup.
Kylian Mbappé’s early days at Real Madrid haven’t entirely lived up to expectations, but his undeniable talent means he remains a major force. Adjusting to life in Madrid has taken time, but his contributions in key matches demonstrate his potential to hit new heights as the season progresses.
Mbappé is openly ambitious about winning the Ballon d’Or, a trophy revered in France. However, he may find himself overshadowed by a teammate who currently seems even more pivotal to Real Madrid’s success.
7. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) 🏴
2024-25: 23 goals, 9 assists.
Could this finally be the season Harry Kane secures his long-awaited first piece of silverware? Bayern Munich, led by Vincent Kompany, are off to a flying start in the Bundesliga, with Kane proving once again that his instincts in front of goal remain world-class even at 31.
While Rodri’s 2024 victory showed that scoring isn’t everything when it comes to Ballon d’Or success, Kane’s all-round game and leadership could turn heads—particularly if he leads Bayern to domestic and European glory.
6. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) 🇪🇸
2024-25: 6 goals, 13 assists.
No player has won the Ballon d’Or before turning 21, but Lamine Yamal could rewrite history. At just 17, he’s already regarded as one of the brightest talents in football and continues to show steady improvement.
Despite being outscored by two of his Barcelona teammates, many La Liga observers agree Yamal has been the standout player in Spain so far. A Kopa Trophy win is already under his belt, and greater accolades might not be far behind.
5. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) 🇩🇪
2024-25: 16 goals, 9 assists.
After guiding Bayern Munich to the Bundesliga title in 2023, Jamal Musiala had a quieter spell last season. However, his exceptional performances at Euro 2024 appear to have reignited his form, making him the standout player in German football this term.
Sharing the spotlight with Harry Kane has been a challenge, but Musiala’s creativity and consistency prove he’s indispensable to Bayern’s success. If his current form leads to trophies, he’ll be a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or.
4. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona) 🇵🇱
2024-25: 24 goals, 4 assists.
After missing out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist, many thought Robert Lewandowski’s dream of winning the prestigious award was over. However, his reunion with Hansi Flick at Barcelona has sparked a resurgence, with the 36-year-old delivering performances reminiscent of his prime.
While Lewandowski’s age remains a factor, his return to form has made him a vital figure for Barca. His contributions this season could yet see him back in contention for football’s highest individual honour.
3. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid) 🇧🇷
2024-25: 14 goals, 10 assists. Won UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup.
After finishing second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, Vinícius Júnior is determined to go one better this year. The Real Madrid star is playing with a point to prove, looking sharper and more decisive than ever.
His dazzling performances in the first half of the season underline his case, but for him to claim the ultimate prize, Real Madrid will need to find consistent form and secure major silverware in 2025.
2. Raphinha (Barcelona) 🇧🇷
2024-25: 20 goals, 10 assists.
Raphinha has arguably been the best performer in Barcelona’s attack this season, with his numbers reflecting his impact. However, he remains somewhat in the shadow of his more celebrated teammates, meaning he’ll need truly extraordinary stats to earn serious recognition.
That said, Raphinha is playing the best football of his career, and if he continues this trajectory, he could make a strong case for himself in the Ballon d’Or conversation—provided Barcelona’s overall form doesn’t falter.
1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) 🇪🇬
2024-25: 20 goals, 17 assists.
With his Liverpool contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, Mohamed Salah is making what could be his final season at Anfield truly memorable. Under new manager Arne Slot, Salah has rediscovered his best form, leading the Reds in their pursuit of glory in both the Premier League and Champions League.
At 32, Salah shows no signs of slowing down. If he can guide Liverpool to silverware this season, he has a genuine shot at becoming the first African Ballon d’Or winner since George Weah in 1995.
