Football is one of the greatest sports, and what makes it the finest game of all time is the emotion that can be seen not just within the players but, in fact, in the eyes of every spectator, cheering from the field, from the sidelines or from their TV screens at home. People have been worshiping Football for decades.
A dialogue I heard in the movie GOAL: The Dream Begins, that has stuck with me since then is that “Footballers have always been heroes even when they were earning 8 quids a day and working down the mines at the same time.” So, it's not just a game; it's a source of belonging, and its popularity isn't surprising—it's been capturing hearts for years.
From playing football in muddy puddles all day and practicing on local pitches to grand stadiums, football's spirit unites us all, making it the favorite game of countless generations.
Football is the game of generations, played by literally every country around the world, and that is why deciding who is the best football player in the world is quite a challenge. In this blog, we have discussed some of the world’s No.1 football players who have touched millions of hearts for years.
Top 10 Best Football Players in the World
Let's take a look at the top 10 famous football players, each of whom can be regarded by fans as the best footballer in the world in 2024.
1. Kylian Mbappé (France)
Kylian Mbappé's meteoric rise from the suburbs of Paris to global football stardom has captivated fans worldwide. Blessed with blistering pace, exceptional dribbling, and clinical finishing in front of goal, Mbappé is a force to be reckoned with in 2024. He burst onto the scene with AS Monaco in 2015, guiding the club to a surprise Ligue 1 title and earning comparisons to legendary players. His move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2018.
Mbappé's electrifying performances on the international stage, including winning the FIFA World Cup with France in 2018, have further solidified his reputation as a generational talent destined for greatness. His ability to turn games on their head with moments of brilliance makes him one of the most feared forwards in the world. Mbappe will play for Real Madrid from the 2024-25 season.
Kylian Mbappé's Notable Awards and Trophies
- FIFA WORLD CUP WINNER (2018)
- UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE WINNER (2021)
- FIFA WORLD CUP GOLDEN BOOT (2022)
- FIFA WORLD CUP YOUNG PLAYER AWARD (2018)
- 7 X FRENCH CHAMPION
- 4 X FRENCH CUP WINNER
- 2 X FRENCH LEAGUE CUP WINNER
- 3 X FRENCH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 3 X FRENCH FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 6 X FRENCH LEAGUE TOP GOAL SCORER
- 5 X FRENCH LEAGUE PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 3 X FRENCH LEAGUE YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 1 X UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TOP GOAL SCORER
2. Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Lionel Messi is the best football player the world has ever seen. Lionel Messi's journey from Rosario, Argentina, to becoming the global football icon is a tale of prodigious talent and unyielding determination. Despite facing challenges due to a growth hormone deficiency in his youth, Messi's exceptional skills caught the attention of FC Barcelona, where he joined the famed La Masia youth academy at the age of 13.
Messi rose through the ranks to become the linchpin of Barcelona's golden generation, winning numerous La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League trophies. His dribbling prowess, vision, and goal-scoring ability have earned him a record-breaking eight Ballon d'Or awards, cementing his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Lionel Messi is in the twilight of his career, now playing for Inter Miami in the MLS.
Messi’s Notable Awards and Trophies
- FIFA WORLD CUP WINNER (2022)
- COPA AMÉRICA WINNER (2021)
- UEFA-CONMEBOL CUP OF CHAMPIONS WINNER (2022)
- 2 X FIFA WORLD CUP GOLDEN BALL (2014, 2022)
- 8 X BEST FIFA MEN'S PLAYER
- 8 X BALLON D'OR WINNER
- 3 X UEFA BEST PLAYER IN EUROPE
- 23 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 10 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 4 X PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 4 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 3 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 10 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 7 X SPANISH CUP WINNER
- 7 X SPANISH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 2 X FRENCH CHAMPION
- 1 X FRENCH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 3 X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X LEAGUE CUP WINNER
3. Erling Haaland (Norway)
Erling Haaland's ascent from a relatively unknown talent in Norway to one of the most sought-after strikers in world football has been nothing short of remarkable. Born into a family of athletes, Haaland's natural athleticism and goal-scoring instincts were evident from a young age. After impressing at Molde FK, he made a high-profile move to Red Bull Salzburg, where he exploded onto the scene with his prolific goal-scoring exploits in the UEFA Champions League.
Haaland's move to Borussia Dortmund further solidified his reputation as a prodigious talent, with his lethal finishing and physicality making him a nightmare for defenders. Despite his young age, Haaland's maturity, work ethic, and hunger for success have marked him as one of football's brightest prospects. Haaland's consistent performances and knack for finding the back of the net make him a key player for both Manchester City and country.
Erling Haaland's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 6 X FOOTBALL OF THE YEAR
- 1X UEFA BEST PLAYER IN EUROPE
- 2 X PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 6 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 1 X AUSTRIAN CHAMPION
- 1 X AUSTRIAN CUP WINNER
- 1 X GERMAN CUP WINNER
- 2 X ENGLISH CHAMPION
- 1 X FA CUP WINNER
- 1 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 1 X UEFA SUPERCUP WINNER
Explore More: Messi vs Ronaldo - Know Who is better? Records, Stats, and Goal Comparison
4. Robert Lewandowski (Poland)
Robert Lewandowski's journey from a small town in Poland to becoming one of the most lethal strikers in football is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Despite facing skepticism about his abilities early in his career, Lewandowski proved his doubters wrong with his goal-scoring at clubs like Lech Poznań and Borussia Dortmund.
Lewandowski's move to Bayern Munich elevated his game to new heights, where he became the Bundesliga's top scorer multiple times and played a crucial role in the club's domestic and European success. Lewandowski's work ethic, technical proficiency, and leadership have earned him numerous individual accolades, including the FIFA Best Men's Player award, establishing him as one of the modern era's premier strikers. Lewandowski plays for FC Barcelona.
Robert Lewandowski's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 1X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 12 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 2 X THE BEST FIFA MEN'S PLAYER
- 13 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 2 X PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 1 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 1 X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 10 X GERMAN CHAMPION
- 6 X GERMAN SUPER CUP WINNER
- 4 X GERMAN CUP WINNER
- 1 X POLISH CHAMPION
- 1 X POLISH CUP WINNER
- 1 X POLISH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 1 X SPANISH SUPER CUP WINNER
Explore More: Most Goals in Football: All-Time Leading Goal Scorers
5. Neymar Jr (Brazil)
Neymar Jr's journey from the favelas of São Paulo to becoming one of football's most dazzling stars is a testament to his resilience and flair on the pitch. Rising through the ranks at Santos FC, Neymar's mesmerizing skills and creativity captured the attention of European giants, leading to his blockbuster move to Barcelona.
Alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, Neymar formed one of the most formidable attacking trios in football history, winning numerous domestic and international titles, including the UEFA Champions League. His subsequent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain shattered records and cemented his status as one of the sport's most marketable and talented players, despite facing criticism for his decision to leave Barcelona. Neymar plays for Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
Neymar Jr's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 1 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 1 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 1 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 5 X FRENCH CHAMPION
- 2 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 3 X FRENCH CUP WINNER
- 3 X SPANISH CUP WINNER
- 2 X FRENCH LEAGUE CUP WINNER
- 1 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 4 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 4 X FRENCH SUPER CUP WINNER
6. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
Kevin De Bruyne's journey from a young talent in Belgium to a midfield maestro revered across Europe is a testament to his technical prowess and tactical intelligence. Despite facing setbacks early in his career at Chelsea, De Bruyne's move to Wolfsburg provided the platform for him to showcase his exceptional passing range and vision. His subsequent transfer to Manchester City transformed him into one of the Premier League's most influential players, with his ability to dictate the tempo of games and provide crucial assists earning him widespread acclaim. De Bruyne's relentless pursuit of excellence has seen him collect numerous individual awards and play a pivotal role in Manchester City's domestic dominance.
Kevin De Bruyne's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 3 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 2 X PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 2 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 1 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 6 X ENGLISH CHAMPION
- 2 X ENGLISH FA CUP WINNER
- 5 X ENGLISH LEAGUE CUP WINNER
- 1 X ENGLISH COMMUNITY SHIELD WINNER
- 1 X BELGIUM CHAMPION
- 1 X BELGIUM CUP WINNER
- 1 X BELGIUM SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 1 X GERMAN CUP WINNER
- 1 X GERMAN SUPER CUP WINNER
7. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Mohamed Salah's journey from humble beginnings in Nagrig, Egypt, to global football superstardom is a testament to his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence. After initially struggling to make an impact in Europe with Chelsea, Salah's resurgence at AS Roma paved the way for a blockbuster move to Liverpool.
In his debut season at Anfield, Salah's electrifying pace and clinical finishing propelled Liverpool to a top-four finish and saw him break numerous goal-scoring records. His subsequent exploits, including leading Liverpool to UEFA Champions League and Premier League glory, have cemented his status as one of the most lethal forwards in world football. Off the pitch, Salah's humility and philanthropy have endeared him to fans around the globe, making him a beloved figure both on and off the field.
Mohamed Salah's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 2 X AFRICAN FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 2 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 4 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 1 X PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 2 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 1 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 1 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 1 X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X ENGLISH CHAMPION
- 1 X ENGLISH LEAGUE CUP WINNER
- 1 X ENGLISH FA CUP WINNER
- 2 X SWISS CHAMPION
You Might Also Like: Football Ground Measurement | Size of a Football Field
8. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Cristiano Ronaldo's rise from an ordinary and struggling lifestyle in Madeira to superstardom epitomizes the power of hard work and self-belief. Growing up in a modest household, Ronaldo honed his skills playing street football before catching the eye of Sporting Lisbon's scouts. His dazzling performances at Sporting earned him a move to Manchester United, where he developed into a prolific goal scorer and won multiple Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy.
Ronaldo's relentless pursuit of excellence saw him conquer new heights at Real Madrid, where he became the club's all-time leading scorer and won numerous Ballon d'Or awards. His transfer to Juventus further solidified his legacy as one of the sport's greatest-ever players. Hew won multiple Premier League titles with Manchester United, La Liga titles with Real Madrid, and Serie A titles with Juventus.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Notable Awards and Trophies
- EURO CUP WINNER (2016)
- UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE WINNER (2019)
- 5 X WINNER BALLON D'OR
- 3 X THE BEST FIFA MEN'S PLAYER
- 4 X UEFA BEST PLAYER IN EUROPE
- 14 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 19 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 8 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 5 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 4 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 2 X TM-PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 3 X ENGLISH CHAMPION
- 3 X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 2 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 2 X SPANISH CUP WINNER
- 2 X ITALIAN CHAMPION
- 1 X ITALIAN CUP WINNER
- 1 X ITALIAN SUPER CUP WINNER
9. Karim Benzema (France)
Karim Benzema's journey from the tough streets of Lyon to becoming one of football's most consistent goal scorers is a testament to his resilience and talent. Rising through the ranks at Olympique Lyonnais, Benzema's clinical finishing and technical ability caught the attention of Real Madrid, where he joined as a promising young striker.
Despite facing scrutiny and competition from other stars, Benzema's adaptability and work ethic made him a key player for Los Blancos, winning numerous La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles. His ability to link up play and provide crucial goals has earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike, solidifying his status as one of the most underrated forwards of his generation.
Karim Benzema's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 1 X WINNER BALLON D'OR
- 1 X UEFA BEST PLAYER IN EUROPE
- 4 X FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR
- 6 X TOP GOAL SCORER
- 5 X PLAYER OF THE YEAR
- 1 X TM-PLAYER OF THE SEASON
- 5 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 5 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 4 X FRENCH CHAMPION
- 4 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 4 X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X WINNER UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE
- 4 X SPANISH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1 X FRENCH CUP WINNER
- 2X FRENCH SUPER CUP WINNER
10. Vinicius Jr. (Brazil)
Vinicius Junior’s rise at Real Madrid has been spectacular. The Brazilian winger is known for his speed, dribbling, and creativity. Vinicius started his professional career at Flamengo in Brazil in 2017 before moving to Madrid a year later. Since then, he has established himself as a key member of the Real Madrid team, winning league and Champions League titles. Vinicius made his Brazil debut in 2021 and played in the 2021 Copa America, 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa America. Vinicius’s potential and performances have made him one of the most exciting young talents in football.
Vinicius Jr's Notable Awards and Trophies
- 2 X CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
- 2 X FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNER
- 3 X SPANISH CHAMPION
- 1 X SPANISH CUP WINNER
- 3 X SPANISH SUPER CUP WINNER
- 1X UEFA SUPER CUP WINNER
- 3 X UEFA TEAM OF THE SEASON
- 3 X SPANISH LEAGUE TEAM OF THE SEASON
The stories of these top 10 footballers exemplify the diverse paths to success in the world of football. From overcoming physical challenges to navigating the pressures of the spotlight, each player has demonstrated dedication, resilience, and talent. Their journeys inspire millions of fans around the globe, showcasing the power of sport and the universal values it holds. These footballing icons will continue to make headlines and break records. With this, their legacies will serve as a reminder that greatness knows no boundaries and that dreams, when pursued with determination, can indeed become reality on the pitch.
FAQs
Who is the Best Football Player in the World 2024?
France and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is arguably the best football in the world in 2024.
Who is the No 1 Football Player in the World?
Kylian Mbappe is the No. 1 football player in the world. He has scored 331 goals in football for the club and country.
Who is the best football player in the world of all time?
Lionel Messi is arguably the all-time best football player in the world. He won the 2022 Football World Cup and 2021 Copa America for Argentina. He has won the Ballon d'Or for a record eight times.
Who is the best footballer in India?
Sunil Chhetri is widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian footballers of all time and a top contender for the best footballer right now.
