Choosing football’s best XI — we’ve all done it before. Whether in school during class, scribbling down names on a piece of paper, or while walking down the street, debating each other’s picks out loud is part of football culture. We’ve all imagined and repeatedly selected our Ultimate XI, though these discussions are never easy. Everyone has their own opinion on who deserves a spot, and those debates can get pretty heated. But that’s the beauty of it—football always gives us new talent, fresh surprises, and endless possibilities to consider.
The World’s Ultimate XI Right Now (4-3-3 Formation)
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
There is no doubt that Thibaut Courtois has consistently delivered title-winning performances that pushed Real Madrid over the edge in crucial finals, making him an automatic choice for this XI.
Right-Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Trent Alexander-Arnold has revolutionized the right-back position with his attacking contributions, including pinpoint crosses and exceptional set-piece deliveries. Initially a midfielder, Trent’s ability to dictate play from the right-back position and support Liverpool’s attacking moves makes him a strong contender for the title of the best right-back in the world. Despite his occasional defensive lapses in the past, Trent is currently less exposed under Arne Slot’s more ‘controlled’ setup, which has resulted in greater ball possession and fewer defensive transitions, allowing him to focus more on his creative skills. Besides, who doesn’t love a right-back who can score direct free kicks?
Centre-Back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
A Rolls Royce of a defender. Virgil van Dijk remains one of the most dominant centre-backs in the world and has already entered the discussion for best Premier League defender of all time. His leadership, composure, aerial dominance, ability to read the game and overall presence in the box, make him the complete defender and are key to Liverpool’s defensive solidity. Both comfortable playing from the back and holding a high defensive line without any fear of exposing the team, Van Dijk is a rock at the heart of Liverpool’s defense.
Centre-Back: William Saliba (Arsenal)
William Saliba has been a revelation for Arsenal, with his calmness, aerial ability, and ball-playing skills making him one of the best young defenders around. His partnership with Gabriel has been key to Arsenal’s defensive transformation while they both pose a threat from set pieces. The young Frenchman has a bright future ahead and will continue to improve.
Left-Back: Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
Alphonso Davies is arguably the most dynamic left-back in world football. His blistering pace, technical skill, and ability to contribute both in attack and defense make him a constant threat and a force to be reckoned with. Even though he has been plagued by a series of injuries, when fit, he is hands down the best left-back in the world.
Defensive Midfield: Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri’s transformation into one of the best defensive midfielders in the world has been one of the key factors behind Manchester City’s dominance. The Ballon d’Or winner was the heartbeat of City’s midfield last season and a key figure in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. Breaking up opposition attacks and controlling the tempo with composure and pure class, he has become indispensable for both club and country.
Box-to-Box Midfield: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
At just 21 years old, Jude Bellingham is already a superstar in world football and the face of Adidas football. His ability to dominate midfield battles, contribute defensively, and score crucial goals, make him the complete midfielder and a pivotal figure for Real Madrid for the next decade. Had England won the final against Spain in the summer, Bellingham would have been a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or, as his performances for both club and country have been nothing short of sensational.
Creative Midfield: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
Despite injuries limiting his appearances, Kevin De Bruyne remains one of the best creative forces in world football. His “quarterback” vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo are second to none. De Bruyne has an unmatched ability to produce game-changing assists, making him one of the best midfielders of the modern era and an all-time Premier League great – currently sitting in second place for most assists in Premier League history.
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
The Egyptian king has been one of the most consistent performers in world football over the past few years and a cornerstone in Liverpool’s attack. His pace, dribbling, and finishing ability make him one of the most dangerous wingers in the world. Salah continues to deliver goals and assists for Liverpool, and his importance to the club is undeniable. Arguably the most in-form winger in the world at the moment, Salah has been carrying Liverpool so far towards a title winning campaign and he is not looking like he is stopping any time soon.
Striker: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
The Norwegian striker’s ability to finish from anywhere, combined with his power and positioning, makes him the most dangerous striker in world football right now. Haaland has transformed Manchester City’s attack with his presence in the box and has been extremely consistent in every competition he’s played.
Left Wing: Kylian Mbappé / Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
It was impossible to leave either out. As of this season, the two best left wingers in the world have been playing for the same team. To accommodate both of them, Kylian Mbappé has been deployed as a number 9 by Ancelotti on several occasions, sometimes with mixed results. Even though the Frenchman has had a slow start in Spain, he remains one of the most electrifying players in world football. His pace, dribbling, and ability to finish with both feet and his head make him a nightmare for defenders.
The same can be said for Vinicius Junior, who needs no introduction. The Brazilian (who controversially missed out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or award) has established himself over the past few years and has been lighting up the stage with title-winning performances for Real Madrid, both in the Champions League and in La Liga.
Honorable Mentions / Alternative XI
- Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker (Liverpool)
- Right-Back: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
- Left-Back: Theo Hernandez (AC Milan)
- Centre-Back: Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
- Centre Back: Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
- Midfield: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
- Midfield: Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
- Midfield: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
- Right Wing: Lamine Yamal (Bayern Munich), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
- Left Wing: Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
- Striker: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)