ESPN FC The Football Reporters: Who are the best 100 players in the world?
Jun 4, 2025
The latest ranking of the top 100 footballers sparks intriguing discussions among experts. Key players like Thibaut Courtois stand out for their performances despite team struggles. Rising midfield talents at Barcelona and Real Madrid are highlighted for their dynamic play. The balance between established stars like Mohamed Salah and emerging youngsters is examined. The competitive landscape of player contracts and future transfers adds an extra layer of excitement as teams plan their next moves.
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Courtois: World's Top Goalkeeper
- Thibaut Courtois remains the world's best goalkeeper despite an inconsistent season at Real Madrid.
- His exceptional saves have often prevented worse outcomes even when his defense was lacking.
Hakimi's Fullback Evolution
- Ashraf Hakimi excels as a modern fullback by combining defensive solidity with attacking creativity.
- His tactical growth under coaches Conte and Luis Enrique shaped him into a versatile, team-first player.
Van Dijk's Enduring Impact
- Virgil van Dijk's presence and leadership are crucial for Liverpool's defense and team cohesion.
- His ability to read the game offsets physical declines as he approaches the later stages of his career.