2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Ranking the Best XI for the Competition

Chelsea won the trophy after a long and tough campaign, but many players impressed from different clubs. From strong defenders to creative midfielders and clinical attackers, several stars stood out. 

Yassine Bounou was one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the competition. He made key saves to keep Al Hilal alive in difficult matches and was one of the busiest keepers in the tournament.

Against top teams like Real Madrid, Bounou showed his experience with a penalty save and quick reactions. His performances were a big reason why Al Hilal reached the quarter-finals. He ended the tournament with the highest number of saves.

Achraf Hakimi had a brilliant tournament for PSG. The Moroccan right-back was solid in defence and sharp in attack, scoring two goals and providing two assists. He made overlapping runs and was always a danger going forward. Hakimi’s speed and energy helped PSG control the wings, and his contribution on both sides of the pitch was key to their success. He made it into every top XI list from the competition.

Marquinhos was a leader for PSG at the back. The Brazilian defender was calm under pressure and strong in the air. He helped PSG keep five clean sheets in the tournament, which was the most by any team. Marquinhos used his experience to organise the defence and stop dangerous strikers. His reading of the game was top-class, and he made several key tackles and blocks to keep his side safe.

Even at 40 years old, Thiago Silva showed he still had quality. He was the heart of Fluminense’s defence, helping them reach the semi-finals. Silva used his experience to guide younger players and was always in the right position. He played with intelligence and kept things simple at the back. His leadership and composure stood out, and FIFA included him in the official Team of the Tournament.

Marc Cucurella was very consistent for Chelsea during their title run. He defended well and supported the attack when needed. Cucurella also helped Chelsea keep clean sheets in tight matches, and his link-up play with midfielders was excellent. He was rarely caught out of position and delivered good crosses from the left side. Cucurella’s hard work earned him praise, and he was one of Chelsea’s most trusted players.

Enzo Fernández had a standout tournament and was one of the best midfielders on show. He led the tournament in assists and controlled games from midfield. Enzo was involved in almost every Chelsea attack, breaking up play and creating chances with his passing. His vision and calmness under pressure helped Chelsea dominate midfield battles. His top-level performances earned him a place in FIFA’s official Best XI for the tournament.

Vitinha was very impressive for PSG, acting as the brain of the midfield. He kept the ball moving and made smart passes to break down defences. Vitinha worked hard on and off the ball and always looked for space. His ability to switch play and keep possession made a big difference for PSG. Many fans and pundits said Vitinha was one of the most complete midfielders in the tournament.

Caicedo played a huge role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup success. The Ecuadorian midfielder brought energy, strength, and balance to the team’s midfield. He won tackles, recovered possession, and covered every blade of grass. Caicedo partnered perfectly with Enzo Fernández, allowing Chelsea to dominate matches.

His pressing and ball-winning were vital in tough games, especially against PSG in the final, and he proved why Chelsea spent big to bring him from Brighton.

Pedro Neto gave Chelsea speed and skill on the left wing. He scored in each of the three games he played and caused problems for every defence. Neto made clever runs, linked well with Enzo and Palmer, and always tracked back to help defend. His most important performance came in extra time against Benfica. His goals and work rate were vital to Chelsea lifting the trophy.

Cole Palmer was the best player in the entire tournament. He won the Golden Ball after scoring important goals, including two in the final. Palmer created chances, scored with both feet, and always played with confidence. His dribbling and passing helped Chelsea in every match, and he was the leader of their attack.

At just 23, Palmer showed he is now a world-class forward. His performances made him the face of Chelsea’s title win.

García was Real Madrid’s best forward in the competition, even though they did not win the trophy. He shared the Golden Boot, scoring four goals and assisting one. García was sharp in front of goal and always made good decisions in the box. His movement gave defenders a tough time, and he took his chances well. Despite Real Madrid’s early exit, García left a strong impression with his finishing and work ethic.