Anticipation is building as football enthusiasts eagerly await the final rounds of the first annual Golazo 100, set for 2025. This list has been remarkable, showcasing a plethora of talent and several fascinating narratives that are captivating fans worldwide.
Gregor Kobel: Borussia Dortmund's Guardian
One of the standout performers has been Gregor Kobel, who has firmly established himself as Borussia Dortmund's primary goalkeeper. Ranked the ninth best goalkeeper globally, Kobel's caliber surpasses notable names such as Thibaut Courtois, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Emiliano Martinez. His consistent and impressive performances have linked him with top clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, signaling a promising future ahead.
David Alaba: The Resilient Center Back
David Alaba's reputation as one of the best center backs in the world remains undisputed, despite suffering a significant injury. The former elite left back has excelled in the center back position for the past four years. Unfortunately, Alaba suffered a torn cruciate ligament last December, and the uncertainty of his post-injury athleticism leaves fans eagerly awaiting his recovery. His resilience and skill will undoubtedly be critical in his comeback.
Warren Zaire-Emery: Rising Star
Warren Zaire-Emery was one of the most agonizing late cuts from the Golazo 100 list. His brief CV might have influenced his ranking, but his recent call-up for Didier Deschamps' Euro 2024 squad signifies his rising prominence. Zaire-Emery has solidified himself as a crucial solution for Paris Saint-Germain's problematic position, and his development will be closely watched in the coming years.
Ben White: The Modern Full Back
Ben White epitomizes the modern full back, capable of performing all three main roles required of his position. Surprisingly, White did not make the Golazo 100 list, despite his versatility and consistent performances. His exclusion raises questions, but there is no denying his impact and potential for the future.
Jonathan David: The Prolific Striker
Jonathan David's record in Ligue 1 speaks volumes about his talent, delivering 43 goals in 71 games over the past two years. This impressive performance has drawn interest from Serie A, the Premier League, and La Liga. With his contract nearing its end, David could be an intriguing option on the free agent market within the next 12 months. His goal-scoring prowess makes him a valuable asset for any top club.
Benjamin Sesko: A Young Prodigy
Benjamin Sesko ended the season on a remarkable scoring streak, although some analysts believe there might be an element of luck involved. Nevertheless, Sesko is widely regarded as one of Europe's best young strikers, and clubs such as Arsenal are among his strongest admirers. His development will be an exciting narrative to follow.
Christopher Nkunku: From Bundesliga to Premier League
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 adaptation to the English league is still a developing story.
Antonee Robinson: The Defensive Maestro
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, showcasing his defensive prowess. While Fulham may not be competing at the highest level, Robinson has the opportunity to demonstrate his worth regardless. His defensive skills make him a player to watch.
Matias Soule: A Creative Force
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 will largely depend on the team platform he has and his continued development. Soule's creativity and vision on the field set him apart as an emerging talent.
Joao Felix: Searching for the Perfect Fit
Joao Felix's loan spell at Barcelona saw him deliver 10 goals and 6 assists, but his potential remains unfulfilled. Felix has yet to find his perfect fit and doesn't align well with Atletico Madrid's style. Additionally, Barcelona may not have the finances to secure his return. Despite these challenges, Felix continues to inspire with his creativity, passing vision, and strong running.
As the journey through the top 100 players unfolds, the analysis and in-depth breakdown of their rankings provide riveting insights into the futures of football's brightest stars. The anticipation around who will make the cut for the 2025 rankings keeps fans eagerly engaged, looking forward to seeing how these narratives develop.
