The 2024-25 season has come to an end! It’s time to analyze and recognize the most outstanding footballers of the moment. In Alofoke Deportes, we present the ranking of the 100 best male football players.
FC 100: An In-Depth Analysis
This ranking differs from others. It’s not simply a list from 1 to 100. We consider the different positions on the field, recognizing the importance of each role, from goalscorers to those who fulfill crucial but less glamorous functions.
Our classification is divided into seven categories, offering a comprehensive view of the depth and talent in world football. This year, we have segmented defenders into full-backs and center-backs, and we have separated midfielders into defensive/central and offensive, to highlight the work of playmakers and those who bring balance to the team. In addition, we have clearly distinguished wingers and center forwards.
Description: Alex Kirkland and Julien Laurens discuss Kylian Mbappé’s number 1 position among center forwards in the FC 100.
The FC 100 Categories
- Goalkeepers
- Full-backs
- Central Defenders
- Defensive/Central Midfielders
- Attacking Midfielders
- Wingers
- Center Forwards
To access the rankings by position:
- Goalkeepers
- Fullbacks
- Center Backs
- Defensive/Central Midfielders
- Attacking Midfielders
- Wingers
- Center Forwards
Previous Editions
Description: Which player who has been present in all editions of the FC 100 might not be in the next one?
In this year’s edition, nearly 100 people from around the world participated. Writers, reporters, editors, producers, and on-screen talent from ESPN collaborated to create the list. The votes were based on the players’ performance during the 2024-25 season, considering factors such as injuries and performances in individual competitions.
News and Changes for 2025
- New Generation: 40 players appear on the list for the first time, reflecting the evolution of football.
- Consistent Players: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF), Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona), and Jan Oblak (Atlético de Madrid) have been in every edition.
- Pulisic Represents the USA: Christian Pulisic appears for the third time in the FC 100.
- The Premier League Dominates: The English league has the largest representation with 35 players.
- PSG Stands Out: Paris Saint-Germain leads with 11 players in the ranking.
- France Excels: The French national team is the most represented by countries, with 12 players.
Description: Mark Ogden praises Mo Salah’s impact in the Premier League.
Voting Criteria
Voters primarily considered the players’ performance in the 2024-25 season. The impact of injuries was taken into account, but it was not a decisive factor. Performances in individual competitions were also evaluated, but they were not the sole criterion.
The FC 100 by Position
Each FC 100 list explains why each player was selected and their prospects for the upcoming season.
Goalkeepers
In modern football, goalkeepers must be skilled with their hands and also initiate the game from the back. Agility, reflexes, and confidence are essential qualities.To see the complete list, click here: List of Goalkeepers
Sides
Current full-backs are much more than defenders. Players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Achraf Hakimi have revolutionized this position, becoming playmakers and contributing goals and assists. They must combine good positioning, speed, and the ability to join the attack.
To see the full list, click here: List of Fullbacks
Central Defenders
Center backs are fundamental for a good team. The best ones combine strength, aggressiveness, elegance, and the ability to anticipate the movements of the forwards.
To see the full list, click here: List of Center Backs
Defensive/Central Midfielders
The midfield is a battlefield. Here are the defensive midfielders, who disrupt the opponent’s game, and the central midfielders, who connect defense and attack. Players like Aurelien Tchouaméni and Alexis Mac Allister stand out in this position, as do Declan Rice and Bruno Guimarães.To see the full list, click here: List of Defensive/Central Midfielders
Offensive Midfielders
Offensive midfielders, also known as “10s”, are creative, quick, and confident. They are capable of scoring goals and assisting their teammates, and their ability to create opportunities makes them spectacular players.To see the full list, click here: List of Attacking Midfielders
Extremes
Wingers are synonymous with skill and spectacle. Whether outrunning their rivals in speed or dribbling, wingers are players who are not afraid to take the initiative. Lamine Yamal and Désiré Doué are examples of young talents in this position.
To see the full list, click here: List of Wingers
Center Forwards
Center forwards are the ultimate finishers. They are goalscorers, playmakers, and space creators. Their ability to read the game and anticipate plays makes them unique. In addition to scoring goals, they are able to improvise and use any part of their body to achieve it.
To see the full list, click here: List of Center Forwards
