Who Is the Best Football Player in the World in 2025?

By Sarah Miller · December 3, 2033

As of 2025, Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the best football player in the world, based on his record-breaking achievements, sustained excellence, and global influence on the sport.

Why Lionel Messi Tops the Rankings

Messi's combination of technical skill, vision, consistency, and longevity sets him apart from his peers. Even in the latter stages of his career, he continues to dominate leagues and influence major competitions.

Key Factors Behind His Greatness

Unmatched ball control and dribbling precision
Exceptional playmaking and goal-scoring ability
Seven Ballon d'Or awards — a record
Career longevity across top European clubs and international success
Leadership and composure under pressure

Comparison with Other Elite Players

While players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland have exceptional records, Messi’s all-around impact gives him the edge in expert evaluations.

Player	Ballon d'Or Wins	Club Goals (Top Tier)	International Goals	Assists (Club + Intl.)	Major Trophies
Lionel Messi	7	474	106	352	45
Cristiano Ronaldo	5	683	128	245	34
Kylian Mbappé	1	210	46	103	13
Erling Haaland	1	198	25	35	6
Robert Lewandowski	2	410	84	115	22

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows Messi leads in Ballon d'Or wins and assists, highlighting his creative dominance. While Ronaldo has more total goals, Messi’s assist numbers reflect his dual threat as both scorer and playmaker. Mbappé and Haaland are rising stars but lack the trophy depth and longevity of Messi.

Global Recognition and Awards

Messi’s seventh Ballon d'Or in 2023 solidified his legacy, followed by leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup — a pivotal moment that cemented his status as the greatest in many fans’ eyes.

Recent Milestones

2022 World Cup Champion and Golden Ball winner
2023 MLS MVP with Inter Miami
Most career assists in La Liga history
Highest number of UEFA Champions League assists
Only player to score in 17 consecutive Champions League seasons

Performance in 2024–2025 Season

Despite playing in Major League Soccer, Messi continued to deliver elite performances for Inter Miami, breaking the league’s single-season scoring record and elevating the profile of football in North America.

Impact Beyond Statistics

Messi’s influence extends beyond goals and trophies. He inspires youth development, drives commercial growth, and promotes football globally through his professionalism and humility.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Football Player in the World

Who is considered the best football player in the world in 2025?

Lionel Messi is widely recognized as the best football player in the world in 2025 due to his historic achievements, leadership, and continued high-level performance, especially after winning the 2022 World Cup.

How many Ballon d'Or awards does Messi have?

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards, the most in history, with his latest coming in 2023 following Argentina’s World Cup triumph.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo still among the top players in 2025?

While Cristiano Ronaldo remains a prolific scorer, especially in the Saudi Pro League, his overall influence and physical peak have declined compared to his prime years, placing him behind active leaders like Messi in global rankings.

Who are the emerging contenders for the best player title?

Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland are the two strongest emerging contenders, combining youth, goal output, and consistent performances in Europe’s top leagues, positioning them as future frontrunners.

Does playing in MLS affect Messi’s standing as the best player?

Although MLS is not as competitive as Europe’s top leagues, Messi’s ongoing excellence, global impact, and recent international success maintain his reputation as the world’s best player despite the league difference.