FIFA Unveils 2025 Best Men’s XI As Luis Enrique Clinches World Coach Crown

FIFA has unveiled its Best Men’s XI for 2025, blending emerging stars with established icons who continue to dominate the highest levels of world football.

The team was announced at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2025 and recognises players who delivered outstanding performances for club and country over the past year. Excellence in Europe’s top leagues and decisive contributions on major international stages were central to the final selection.

Leading the attack is Ousmane Dembélé, whose resurgence to peak form earned him a place after a season marked by goals, confidence and match-deciding displays.

He is joined by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whose inclusion represents one of the season’s most remarkable breakthroughs. The Barcelona forward has rapidly evolved from a promising talent into one of the most dangerous attackers in global football.

The midfield showcases a blend of control, creativity and dynamism. Pedri provides composure and rhythm, Vitinha adds precision and fluidity in possession, while Jude Bellingham’s drive and influence remain undeniable. Cole Palmer completes the lineup following a standout campaign in which his creativity and decisive contributions elevated him among the elite attacking midfielders.

At the back, strength and athleticism define the defence. Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi bring pace and attacking thrust from the flanks, while Virgil van Dijk continues to command the heart of defence with authority and experience. He is partnered by Pacho, whose calmness and physical presence earned widespread praise throughout the season.

Between the posts, Gianluigi Donnarumma completes the XI after another commanding year, delivering crucial saves in high-pressure moments and reaffirming his status as one of the world’s top goalkeepers.

Meanwhile, Luis Enrique was crowned The Best FIFA Men’s Coach 2025 following a historic season with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Spanish tactician led PSG to their maiden UEFA Champions League triumph, capped by a dominant 5–0 victory over Inter Milan in the final. His side also swept domestic honours, securing Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and the Trophée des Champions.

On the global stage, PSG impressed at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup™, finishing runners-up after a campaign highlighted by statement victories over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

Luis Enrique’s exceptional season included lifting the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France and the 2024 Trophée des Champions, finishing second at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, and earning the 2024/25 UNFP Ligue 1 Manager of the Year award.