Player Insights
As the anticipation builds around who will make the cut for the 2025 rankings, the forthcoming list promises to showcase a plethora of talent with several fascinating narratives emerging.
Gregor Kobel: Rising Star Among Goalkeepers
Gregor Kobel has firmly established himself as Borussia Dortmund's primary goalkeeper and stands out as a rising star in his position. Ranked as the ninth best goalkeeper in the world, Kobel's caliber surpasses that of notable names such as Thibaut Courtois, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Emiliano Martinez. His impressive performances have consistently linked him with top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, highlighting his growing influence in the world of football.
David Alaba: A Pillar Despite Adversity
David Alaba's reputation as one of the best center backs in the world remains undisputed, even in the face of adversity. Once an elite left back, Alaba has excelled in the center back position for the past four years. However, his career faced a significant hurdle with a torn cruciate ligament last December. The uncertainty of his post-injury athleticism leaves fans eager to see how he will recover. Nevertheless, his past performances continue to solidify his standing as a top defender.
Warren Zaire-Emery: A Rising Midfield Talent
Warren Zaire-Emery's omission from the Golazo 100 list is one of the most agonizing late cuts. His relatively brief CV might have influenced his ranking. However, his recent call-up for Didier Deschamps' Euro 2024 squad signifies his rising prominence. Zaire-Emery has established himself as a crucial solution for Paris Saint-Germain's problematic midfield position, making his future prospects intriguing to watch.
Ben White: The Modern Full Back
Ben White epitomizes the modern full back, capable of performing all three main roles required by his position. Surprisingly, White did not make it to the Golazo 100 list despite his versatility and consistent performances. His exclusion raises questions about the ranking criteria and leaves room for debate among football enthusiasts.
Jonathan David: A Prolific Goal Scorer
Jonathan David's record in Ligue 1 speaks volumes. Delivering 43 goals in 71 games over the past two years, David has drawn significant 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 player to watch closely.
Benjamin Sesko: Europe's Promising Young Striker
Benjamin Sesko ended the season on a remarkable scoring streak, although some analysts believe there might be an element of luck involved. Regardless, Sesko is widely regarded as one of Europe's best young strikers. Arsenal is among his strongest admirers, and his future trajectory could see him becoming a standout performer in the years to come.
Christopher Nkunku: Transitioning with Impact
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. However, his time on the pitch was limited to just 437 minutes in the 2023-24 Premier League season. Nkunku's potential remains high, and his future performances could solidify his status as a top-tier player.
Antonee Robinson: Defensive Excellence
Antonee Robinson has made significant strides this season, particularly in his off-the-ball performance. He topped the charts for interceptions across Europe’s top five leagues. While Fulham may not be competing at the highest level, Robinson has the opportunity to showcase his worth regardless, making him a notable player in the defensive realm.
Matias Soule: Creative Force in Serie A
Matias Soule made a significant impact in Serie A, 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, but his creative prowess makes him a player to keep an eye on.
Joao Felix: Searching for the Perfect Fit
Joao Felix's loan spell at Barcelona saw him deliver 10 goals and 6 assists. Despite his potential, Felix has yet to find his perfect fit. His playing style doesn't align well with Atletico Madrid's tactics, and Barcelona may not have the finances to secure his return. Nevertheless, Felix continues to inspire with his creativity, passing vision, and strong running.
As we approach the final rounds of the first annual Golazo 100, the journey through the top 100 players remains as riveting as ever. Filled with insights into the futures of football's brightest stars, this ranking serves as a testament to the evolving narratives and enduring talent within the sport.