Top 10: The best footballers of 25/26

By William Zhao

World football this year has delivered some of the most competitive matches we’ve seen, with a lot of talent being shown.

From unstoppable goalscorers like Harry Kane, to flashy wingers like Kvaratskhelia, and world-class midfielders like Vitinha, there have been some unbelievable performances this year.

But with so many elite players dominating the game, there is only one question to ask. Who are the best footballers in the world right now?

No.10: Rayan Cherki

Those who watch the English Premier League would know how world class Rayan Cherki has been for City this season. His flair, vision and technical ability has made him one of the most entertaining players to watch in football right now.

No.9: Joao Neves

Joao Neves has quickly become one of the smartest midfielders in world football. Ever since the transfer from Benfica to PSG, he has been ripping European teams apart on the biggest stages in football. Despite his age, he has the composure, passing and work rate you’d expect from a veteran.

No.8: Dembele

Many fans were doubting if Dembele could live up to their expectations from winning the Ballon D’or and his 24/25 season, and Dembele made sure to let the fans know he is EXACTLY the player he was before. When Dembele is fully fit and confident, he is almost impossible to stop.

No.7: Luis Diaz

Ever since leaving Liverpool, Luis Diaz has taken his game to another level. With a staggering  49 goal contributions this season he is one of the main reasons behind Bayern’s dominance. His explosive pace, composure in the box and flair makes him a dream attacker for any manager in world football.

No.6: Bruno Fernandes

With the Portuguese beating the Premier League assist record, it’s no surprise he finds himself on this list. After many fans doubted him last year, he silenced the critics and reminded the world why he’s one of the best creators in world football. Whether it is scoring goals or delivering perfect passes, he continues to deliver in big moments and remains the heartbeat to his team.

No.5: Vitinha

Vitinha, the engine of the PSG team, continues to show why he’s the best midfielder in the world. From breaking lines with passes, keeping possession in tight spaces, and leading the press, he’s the driving force behind his team every match.

No.4: Lamine Yamal

At only 18, Lamine Yamal continues to show why he’s the brightest young talent in the world. The way he takes on defenders with confidence, creates chances out of nothing, or dribbles past half the team with flair, proves why many people compare him to the young Messi.

No.3: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Despite his league form, Kvaratskhelia’s Champions League campaign has been arguably one of the best of all time. Holding the competition record as the first player to record a goal or assist in seven consecutive UCL knockout matches, he shows why he’s one of the most dangerous wingers in world football.

No.2: Michael Olise

Olise’s numbers this season have been nothing short of extraordinary. With 22 goals and a ridiculous 31 assists, he is dominating Europe and proving himself as one of the most complete attackers in the game. His ability to curl the ball, dribble with flair and ability to leave defenders scrambling makes him almost impossible to contain.

No.1: Harry Kane

Harry Kane’s 25/26 season has put him on the chart with the likes of Lewa, Benzema, and Suarez as one of the greatest strikers in this generation. His goalscoring record this season has been unreal, with 61 goals. But it’s not just the numbers that make him special – it’s his all-round footballing ability. Unlike other strikers, he also has the ability to drop deep, dictate play, create chances and make world-class passes, proving why he’s the most complete striker in football.

Featured image: Harry Kane has been a prolific goalscorer for Bayern Munich. Photo: mrbundesteam/YouTube