Player Insights: Rising Talents and Established Stars
As anticipation builds around who will make the cut for the 2025 rankings, the landscape of football continues to evolve with a plethora of talent and fascinating narratives. From the established names to the rising stars, the upcoming Golazo 100 list promises to be a riveting journey through the top 100 players in the world.
Gregor Kobel: A Star Between the Posts
Gregor Kobel has firmly established himself as Borussia Dortmund's primary goalkeeper, and his performances have not gone unnoticed. Ranked as the ninth best goalkeeper in the world, Kobel's caliber surpasses notable names such as Thibaut Courtois, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Emiliano Martinez. His impressive displays have consistently linked him with top clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, highlighting his growing reputation in the footballing world.
David Alaba: Resilience Amid Adversity
David Alaba’s reputation as one of the best center backs in the world remains undisputed, despite a significant injury. Formerly an elite left back, Alaba has excelled in the center back position for the past four years. Suffering from a torn cruciate ligament last December, the uncertainty of his post-injury athleticism leaves fans eager to see how he will recover and whether he can maintain his top-tier performance levels.
Warren Zaire-Emery: A Rising Star
Warren Zaire-Emery has been one of the most agonizing late cuts from the Golazo 100 list, but his brief CV might have influenced his ranking. His recent call-up for Didier Deschamps' Euro 2024 squad signifies his rising prominence. At Paris Saint-Germain, Zaire-Emery has solidified himself as a crucial solution for the team's problematic position, making him a player to watch in the coming years.
Ben White: The Modern Full Back
Ben White epitomizes the modern full back, capable of performing all three main roles required of his position. Surprisingly, White did not make it to the Golazo 100 list despite his versatility and consistent performances. His exclusion stands as a contentious point among fans and analysts alike, who recognize his significant contributions to his team.
Jonathan David: Prolific and Promising
Jonathan David’s record speaks volumes, delivering 43 goals in 71 Ligue 1 games over the past two years. His impressive goal-scoring abilities have drawn interest from Serie A, the Premier League, and La Liga. With his contract nearing its end, David could become an intriguing option on the free-agent market within the next 12 months, making him a potential game-changer for several clubs.
Benjamin Sesko: A Young Striker on the Rise
Benjamin Sesko ended the season on a remarkable scoring streak, and while some analysts believe there might be an element of luck involved, Sesko is widely regarded as one of Europe’s best young strikers. Among his strongest admirers is Arsenal, who might consider Sesko as a significant addition to their squad in the near future.
Christopher Nkunku: A Successful Transition
Christopher Nkunku made an impressive transition from the Bundesliga to the Premier League, delivering 36 goals and 17 assists in his final two seasons in Germany. Although his time on the pitch was limited to just 437 minutes in the 2023-24 Premier League season, Nkunku's potential remains evident, and he is expected to make a more substantial impact in the coming seasons.
Antonee Robinson: Defensive Prowess
Antonee Robinson has made significant strides this season, particularly in his off-the-ball performance. Topping the charts for interceptions across Europe’s top five leagues, Robinson has showcased his defensive prowess. Despite playing for Fulham, which may not be competing at the highest level, Robinson has seized every opportunity to demonstrate his worth.
Matias Soule: Creatively Impactful
Matias Soule made a significant impact in Serie A by creating 2.35 chances per 90 minutes in Italy’s top division. His ranking next year largely depends on the team platform he has and his continued development. Soule’s creative playmaking abilities make him a promising talent for the future.
Joao Felix: Seeking the Perfect Fit
Joao Felix's loan spell at Barcelona saw him deliver 10 goals and 6 assists, but his potential remains unfulfilled. Felix has yet to find his perfect fit, as his style doesn't align well with Atletico Madrid’s philosophy, and Barcelona may not have the finances to secure his return. Despite this, Felix continues to inspire with his creativity, passing vision, and strong running, leaving fans hopeful for a breakthrough.
The journey through the top 100 players is as riveting as ever, filled with insights into the futures of football's brightest stars. Don't miss the full analysis and in-depth breakdown of who is ranked where and why.