FIFA has officially announced the nominees for The Best 2025, recognizing the standout footballers from the 2024/25 campaign. For the first time, performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, held in the United States, were included as part of the evaluation criteria.

A move that boosted the visibility of Brazilian clubs and helped the South American nation top the list with 11 players nominated for the Team of the Season. Portugal follows with 10, while France and Spain has eight representatives each one.

Brazil features players in almost every position, led by Raphinha, who’s also in contention for the Best Men’s Player award, and a remarkable showing among goalkeepers: four nominees in total.

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Alisson and Raphinha with two nominations

Raphinha (Barcelona) – Best Player & Team of the Season

Raphinha enjoyed his most complete campaign since joining Barcelona. With pace, flair, and sharp decision-making, he played a key role in their LaLiga and Copa del Rey triumphs, while also shining in the Champions League.

Alisson (Liverpool) – Best Goalkeeper & Team of the Season

Liverpool’s ever-reliable shot-stopper was once again outstanding in 2024/25. A cornerstone of the Premier League title-winning side, Alisson pulled off match-winning saves against Arsenal and Chelsea, while maintaining top form in Europe.

Fábio (Fluminense) – Team of the Season

At 44 years old, Fábio continues to defy time. The veteran was crucial in Fluminense’s 2023 Copa Libertadores triumph, which secured their spot at the 2025 Club World Cup. In the tournament, his calm under pressure and decisive saves — including a man-of-the-match performance — proved why experience still matters.

Weverton (Palmeiras) – Team of the Season

A model of consistency, Weverton was pivotal in Palmeiras’ strong Libertadores and Brasileirão campaigns. His reflexes, command of the box, and leadership helped keep the side competitive on all fronts — earning him yet another nod among the continent’s best.

John (Botafogo / Nottingham Forest) – Team of the Season

John’s year was one of breakthroughs. He starred for Botafogo, anchoring the defense during their Brazilian League and Libertadores title runs, before earning a midseason move to Nottingham Forest. His rise reflects the new generation of Brazilian goalkeepers making their mark abroad.

Defenders in the spotlight

Thiago Silva (Fluminense) – Team of the Season

Back home at Fluminense, Thiago Silva proved that class truly is timeless. At 40, the veteran center-back was the defensive pillar that led the team to a Club World Cup semifinal.

His composure, positioning, and leadership against elite opposition reaffirm his status as one of the great defenders of the modern era.

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Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain) – Team of the Season

The PSG captain delivered yet another season of excellence — winning Ligue 1 and finally lifting the long-awaited Champions League trophy. Solid, composed, and ever-reliable, Marquinhos defensive awareness and leadership continue to set the standard at the highest level.

Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal) – Team of the Season

Dominant in both league and European matches, his performances against top-six rivals cemented his reputation as one of the Premier League’s finest defenders.

Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid) – Team of the Season

Although not as dazzling as in the 2023/24 campaign, the Brazilian star remained one of Real Madrid’s top performers, showcasing trademark dribbles and flashes of brilliance.

Luiz Henrique (Botafogo/Zenit) – Team of the Season

With flair and fearless dribbling, Luiz Henrique was the creative spark behind Botafogo’s 2024 Libertadores triumph, earning him the “Rei da América” (King of America) award.

João Pedro (Brighton / Chelsea) – Team of the Season

The breakout Brazilian of the Premier League season, João Pedro dazzled for Brighton before maintaining form after a big move to Chelsea. Sharp in front of goal and decisive in key clashes, he played a major role in his club’s Club World Cup title in the U.S., showcasing Brazil’s new attacking generation.

Vini Jr Shone at The Best 2024

The FIFA The Best 2025 Awards ceremony will take place in Zurich this December, and anticipation is sky-high for Brazilian fans.

In last year’s edition, Vinícius Júnior stole the show, winning The Best 2024 Men’s Player Award after a spectacular season with Real Madrid.

Instrumental in both the Champions League and Club World Cup triumphs, Vini’s goals and flair. Especially in the final against Borussia Dortmund.

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How FIFA The Best Winners Are Chosen

The selection process for The Best 2025 unfolds in two stages. First, panels of experts — one for men’s football and another for women’s — draw up the shortlist. Then, a public vote on FIFA’s official website (open until November 28) determines the three finalists in each category.

In the final phase, national team coaches and captains from FIFA’s 211 member associations, selected journalists, and fans worldwide cast their votes. The weighted average of these four groups decides the winners across all categories.