Top 20 Players to Watch in 2025–26 – Ranked

The 2025–26 season isn’t just about established superstars — it’s about the next wave of talent ready to break through. While top names dominate headlines, these emerging players are quietly building toward big moments. From teenage prodigies to hidden gems on the verge of stardom, here are 20 rising footballers set to grab the spotlight this season.

20. João Neves (Paris Saint-Germain)

Neves' midfield dynamism and tactical intelligence have been crucial in PSG's recent successes, marking him as a rising star.

19. Rayan Aït-Nouri (Manchester City)

Aït-Nouri's defensive solidity and attacking contributions from the left-back position have strengthened Manchester City's defense.

17. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)

Valverde's energy and box-to-box capabilities make him an indispensable asset in Real Madrid's midfield setup.

16. Phil Foden (Manchester City)

Foden's versatility and technical ability have solidified his place as a vital component of Manchester City's midfield.

15. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Salah remains a consistent performer for Liverpool, contributing crucial goals and assists in domestic and European competitions.

13. Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)

Wirtz's creativity and vision have made him a standout player, with Liverpool acquiring him to enhance their attacking output.

12. Leny Yoro (Manchester United)

Yoro has emerged as one of Europe's best young defenders, drawing attention from Manchester United and Real Madrid.

11. Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)

Eze's performances have attracted interest from top clubs, with Arsenal reportedly accelerating efforts to sign him.

9. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)

Lewandowski remains a prolific striker, scoring 40 goals in the 2024–25 season and playing a key role in Barcelona's success.

8. Pedri (Barcelona)

Pedri's elegance and versatility in midfield were instrumental in Barcelona's domestic treble, with 6 goals and 8 assists across 59 appearances.

7. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)

Vinícius has transformed into a world-class winger, delivering crucial performances in key matches and forming a formidable partnership with Mbappé at Real Madrid.

5. Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund)

Guirassy emerged as Dortmund's top scorer in the Champions League, netting 10 goals and becoming the third player in the club's history to achieve this feat in a single campaign.

4. Jérémy Doku (Manchester City)

Doku's dribbling prowess and creativity have made him a key figure at Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola praising him as "an incredible football player."

3. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain)

After his move to PSG, Kvaratskhelia played a pivotal role in their Champions League triumph, becoming the first Georgian to score in a UEFA club competition final.

1. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

At just 17, Yamal has already made history with Barcelona and Spain, earning accolades like the Kopa Trophy and UEFA Euro 2024 Young Player Award.

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