Top 10 Football Players In The World In 2023
The title says it all, doesn't it? This is a compilation of the top 10 footballers currently dominating the planet. It's as straightforward as that.
Let's clarify the term "right now." This list takes into account the players' present form with both their club and national teams. If a player isn't performing well currently—or if they're not playing at all—then they don't make the cut.
However, we're not solely focused on the present. We've aimed to strike a balance between current form and overall talent to bring you this list. We hope you enjoy it, but we understand that opinions may vary.
Feel free to share your thoughts and your own top 10 list.
10. Samir Nasri
Image Source: https://www.marca.com
Arsenal fans have a valid reason to be disheartened at the moment. While many anticipated Cesc Fabregas's departure for months, Samir Nasri's exit caught them off guard. Nasri was Arsenal's linchpin last season, stepping up when Cesc struggled. He achieved world-class status, leaving his mark on every aspect of the game from midfield. With Manchester City, he continues to shine, contributing numerous assists and boosting City's performance. Arsenal fans can't help but wish he were still wearing their colors.
9. Iker Casillas
At just 30 years old, Iker Casillas has already amassed a remarkable list of achievements. As Real Madrid's primary goalkeeper since his teenage years, he has clinched four La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies. He played a pivotal role in Spain's victories at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup. This year, his performance remains exceptional, with three clean sheets in La Liga. Casillas deserves his place as the top goalkeeper on this list.
8. David Villa
Unsurprisingly, Barcelona makes its mark on this list, starting with 29-year-old forward David Villa. Villa boasts a track record of success with both Barcelona and Spain, earning the Golden Boot at the 2008 Euro and the Silver Boot at the subsequent World Cup, where Spain triumphed. As Spain's all-time top goal-scorer with 46 goals, his move to Barcelona in 2010 has been a revelation. He excels in scoring from open play or set pieces, as well as dissecting defenses with his runs and passes. Villa's ability to read and manipulate the game is truly exceptional.
7. Mesut Özil
Mesut Özil, now 22, gained widespread acclaim for his outstanding performances with Germany during the last World Cup when he was just 21. This earned him a transfer to Real Madrid, where his performance has kept Kaka out of the starting lineup. His nickname, the "German Zidane," reflects his remarkable passing and vision. Özil's potential suggests he may become one of the world's best players in the years to come, which is great news for both Real Madrid and Germany.
6. Sergio Agüero
Image soure: https://www.independent.co.uk
When discussing the best players at this moment, it's hard to overlook the threat posed by Manchester City's Sergio "Kun" Agüero. The Argentine striker has already netted eight goals in seven Premier League matches. He, alongside Nasri, plays a significant role in City's impressive start to the season. Agüero's form is undeniable, and if he continues in this vein, he'll remain a fixture on this list.
5. Wayne Rooney
Right now, Wayne Rooney might be experiencing the peak of his career. The 25-year-old Englishman has scored nine goals in just six Premiership matches. He's also provided two assists and is the standout player on an exceptionally strong Manchester United squad early in the season.
4. Andres Iniesta
Remember when Andres Iniesta suffered a hamstring injury during Barcelona's Champions League match against AC Milan? Barcelona's struggles in his absence highlighted his importance. Iniesta orchestrates Barcelona's midfield, along with Xavi. When these two are in sync, no team, whether at club or international level, can match Spain or Barcelona. They possess an unmatched ability to read the game, anticipate moves ahead of time, and decide when to pass or maintain possession.
3. Xavi
Of course, Xavi cannot be omitted from this list. Just as we highlighted Iniesta's role, Xavi plays a similar part in Spain and Barcelona's central midfield. What sets him apart is his slightly superior and more incisive offensive skills. This comparison is akin to choosing between De Niro and Pacino, with Xavi holding a slight edge.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
We may jest about Cristiano Ronaldo, but there's no denying his exceptional talent on the football pitch. Ronaldo possesses dribbling skills that are nearly unparalleled, and he can outmaneuver defenders with his agility and speed. His ability to score from long-range is astonishing. While he may have a controversial side off the field, his brilliance as a player cannot be denied.
1. Lionel Messi
Who else but Lionel Messi? Messi is undoubtedly the standout player of his generation. At just 24 years old, he has already won nearly every major trophy. If he can add a World Cup title to his collection, he'll be remembered as one of the greatest players of all time. His dribbling skills are unmatched, and he consistently creates scoring opportunities out of thin air. Whether through individual brilliance or intricate team play, Messi has countless ways to defeat his opponents.
This list reflects the current state of the football world in 2023, with each player contributing their unique brilliance to the beautiful game.
