A New Era Unfolds in Women’s Football: The World-Class Club of 2025

Every summer, the football aficionados at GOAL release their exclusive list of the top 25 players who’ve proven their mettle in the beautiful game. The World-Class Club, as we like to call it, is a coveted spot, one that sets the stage for robust debates in sports bars, cafes, and clubs all across the globe.

Since its inception in 2023, the list has continually celebrated the best of women’s football, shining a spotlight on players who’ve consistently delivered top-notch performances. And to ensure we don’t get caught up in the glitz and glam of attackers, we’ve made sure to include a minimum of three players from each position group: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and attackers.

With the annual review upon us, it’s time to reveal who’s made the cut and who’s gracefully stepping aside. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the World-Class Club of 2025.

Goalkeepers

Christiane Endler

Christiane Endler, the Chilean wall guarding the goal for Lyon, continues to impress, cementing her status as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

Hannah Hampton

Despite being only 24, Hannah Hampton has proven her worth by becoming the first-choice goalkeeper for both Chelsea and England, dislodging the experienced Mary Earps to claim her spot in the World-Class Club.

Kailen Sheridan

With consistent brilliant performances for Gotham and San Diego Wave, Kailen Sheridan has become Canada’s No.1 and a deserved member of the World-Class Club.

Defenders

Selma Bacha

24-year-old Selma Bacha continues to make waves with her consistently stellar performances for Lyon, proving that age is no barrier to achieving world-class status.

Ona Batlle

Manchester United’s Ona Batlle has consistently proven her worth as one of the best right-backs in the world and continues to thrive on the international stage with Spain.

Ellie Carpenter

After a devastating ACL injury, Ellie Carpenter has come back stronger than ever, impressing with her performances for Lyon and earning her place in the World-Class Club.

Emily Fox

A new addition to the club, Emily Fox has made waves in the NWSL and refined her game at Arsenal, proving that she’s not just a one-trick pony.

Naomi Girma

Naomi Girma has quickly established herself as a top-level defender, impressing USWNT boss Emma Hayes and Chelsea fans alike with her maturity and skill.

Alex Greenwood

From a solid left-back to a world-class centre-back, Alex Greenwood’s transformation has been nothing short of impressive, proving her worth in both a Manchester City and England jersey.

Mapi Leon

Mapi Leon’s technical prowess and defensive acumen have cemented her place as one of the best centre-backs in women’s football and earned her a coveted spot in the World-Class Club.

Midfielders

Aitana Bonmati

Winner of the last two Ballons d’Or, Aitana Bonmati needs no introduction. Her ability to deliver when it matters the most and her well-rounded performance make her an automatic choice for the World-Class Club.

Mariona Caldentey

After moving to Arsenal, Mariona Caldentey has truly come into her own, proving her worth as a game-changer and earning her spot in the World-Class Club.

Grace Geyoro

Grace Geyoro’s class is evident in her performances for PSG. Her brilliant decision-making and leadership make her a deserving member of the World-Class Club.

Patri Guijarro

Barcelona’s Patri Guijarro’s intelligence and skill make her an integral part of the team, earning her a spot in the World-Class Club.

Lena Oberdorf

Despite a cruel ACL injury, Lena Oberdorf’s previous performances have solidified her status as a world-class player, and she’ll look to reaffirm that when she returns for Bayern Munich.

Alexia Putellas

Alexia Putellas has returned from injury stronger than ever, delivering performances that could earn her a third Golden Ball.

Keira Walsh

Keira Walsh’s performances for Barcelona and Chelsea have proven her to be a world-class talent, earning her a spot in the World-Class Club.

Attackers

Barbra Banda

Barbra Banda’s move to the Orlando Pride has put her on the radar of a vast audience, confirming her status as a world-class player.

Kadidiatou Diani

Lyon forward Kadidiatou Diani’s versatility and dynamism have earned her a place in the World-Class Club.

Caroline Graham Hansen

Caroline Graham Hansen’s consistent performances and second place in the Ballon d’Or voting speak volumes of her talent and value to her team.

Pernille Harder

Pernille Harder’s ability to change the game at the highest level and her leadership have earned her a place in the World-Class Club.

Vivianne Miedema

Vivianne Miedema’s scoring prowess and ability to create for others have helped her maintain her status as a world-class talent.

Ewa Pajor

Ewa Pajor’s impressive start at Barcelona and her goal-scoring ability have proven her to be a world-class centre-forward.

Khadija Shaw

Khadija Shaw’s clinical goal-scoring and hard-working attitude have earned her a place in the World-Class Club.

Sophia Wilson

Despite being only 24, Sophia Wilson’s ability to score goals and create for others have earned her a place in the World-Class Club.

However, as new stars rise, others must step aside. Mary Earps, Alex Popp, Sam Kerr, and Irene Paredes have gracefully stepped back this year. Yet, with their talents, a return to the World-Class Club in the future is certainly within reach.