In this blog post, we’ll dive into the The Top 10 Best Football Players in the World (2022), based on their performance, goals scored, assists, and overall popularity. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this list will give you a clear picture of the stars who dominated the pitch in 2022.
Football, also known as soccer, is the most popular sport in the world, captivating millions of fans across the globe. From the electrifying stadiums of Europe to the passionate fans in South America, football unites people like no other sport. Every year, the debate about who the best football players are heats up, and 2022 was no exception.
Why Football is the World’s Most Popular Sport
Football is played and loved in almost every corner of the world. Countries like England, Spain, France, Brazil, Italy, Germany, and Nigeria are known for their rich footballing traditions. The sport’s popularity is further amplified by legendary clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Juventus. These teams not only compete at the highest level but also produce some of the best players in the world.
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The Top 10 Best Football Players in the World (2022)
Here’s the definitive list of the best football players in 2022, based on their performances, goals, assists, and overall impact on the game:
1. Lionel Messi
- Current Team: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Goals Scored: 42
- Assists: 17
- Salary: $1,325,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 1 Yellow
- Games Played: 11
- Why He’s #1: Messi won the Ballon d’Or 2021/2022, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time. His dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability are unmatched.
2. Robert Lewandowski
- Current Team: Bayern Munich
- Goals Scored: 51
- Assists: 10
- Salary: €350,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 5 Yellow
- Games Played: 18
- Why He’s #2: Lewandowski is a goal-scoring machine, consistently delivering for both club and country. His 51 goals in 18 matches are a testament to his incredible form.
3. Mohamed Salah
- Current Team: Liverpool
- Goals Scored: 33
- Assists: 6
- Salary: €200,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 0 Yellow
- Games Played: 20
- Why He’s #3: Salah was the top scorer in the Premier League in 2022, with 22 goals. He also scored 10 goals for Egypt, showcasing his importance to both club and country.
4. Karim Benzema
- Current Team: Real Madrid
- Goals Scored: 36
- Assists: 9
- Salary: €180,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 9 Yellow
- Games Played: 20
- Why He’s #4: Benzema has been a key player for Real Madrid, leading them to multiple victories. With 4.5 million Instagram followers, he’s also one of the most popular players in the world.
5. Kylian Mbappé
- Current Team: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Goals Scored: 47
- Assists: 8
- Salary: €617,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 8 Yellow
- Games Played: 17
- Why He’s #5: Mbappé is one of the most exciting young talents in football. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him a nightmare for defenders.
6. Mason Mount
- Current Team: Chelsea
- Goals Scored: 11
- Assists: 9
- Salary: €75,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 6 Yellow
- Games Played: 18
- Why He’s #6: Mount has been a consistent performer for Chelsea, contributing both goals and assists. His versatility and work rate make him a valuable asset.
7. Erling Haaland
- Current Team: Borussia Dortmund
- Goals Scored: 48
- Assists: 11
- Salary: €500,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 5 Yellow
- Games Played: 12
- Why He’s #7: Haaland is a goal-scoring phenomenon. Despite his young age, he has already established himself as one of the best strikers in the world.
8. Cristiano Ronaldo
- Current Team: Manchester United
- Goals Scored: 48
- Assists: 6
- Salary: €1,100,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 6 Yellow
- Games Played: 15
- Why He’s #8: Ronaldo is the most popular player in the world and the top scorer in football history with 801 goals. His impact on and off the pitch is unparalleled.
9. Kevin De Bruyne
- Current Team: Manchester City
- Goals Scored: 12
- Assists: 26
- Salary: €400,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 3 Yellow
- Games Played: 15
- Why He’s #9: De Bruyne is one of the best midfielders in the world, known for his vision, passing, and ability to control the game.
10. Raheem Sterling
- Current Team: Manchester City
- Goals Scored: 18
- Assists: 11
- Salary: €200,000 per week
- Cards: 0 Red / 6 Yellow
- Games Played: 17
- Why He’s #10: Sterling’s pace and dribbling make him a constant threat on the wing. He has been a key player for Manchester City and the England national team.
What Makes These Players the Best?
The players on this list have consistently performed at the highest level, delivering goals, assists, and memorable moments for their teams. Their skills, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure set them apart from the rest. Whether it’s Messi’s magic, Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess, or Mbappé’s electrifying speed, these players have redefined what it means to be a football superstar.
Honorable Mentions
While the above players dominated 2022, there are other stars who also had remarkable years, including:
- Neymar Jr. (PSG)
- Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
- Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur)
- Sadio Mané (Bayern Munich)
Final Thoughts
Football is a game of passion, skill, and teamwork, and the players on this list embody the very best of the sport. Whether you’re a fan of Messi’s artistry, Ronaldo’s determination, or Haaland’s raw power, there’s no denying that these players have left an indelible mark on the game. As we look forward to the next season, one thing is certain: the world of football will continue to inspire and amaze us.
Who’s your favorite player on this list? Let us know in the comments below!
