The football world has returned to its traditional award season. The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) has announced the list of contenders for the title of Best Playmaker of 2025, via its official website. This award is given to the most creative players in football who have a high pass culture and can control the rhythm of the game.
The IFFHS annually determines the player who deserves the title of best playmaker. This rating is assessed throughout the year based not only on the player's statistics, but also on the level of influence on the game, the leading role in the team, and the ability to make decisions at crucial moments.
This year's shortlist includes the most talented and modern-style midfielders in world football. These are:
- Arda Guler (Real Madrid)
- Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
- Florian Wears (Liverpool)
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli)
- Lamin Yamal (Barcelona)
- Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
- Pedri (Barcelona)
- Vitinha (PSG)
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
- James Rodriguez (Leon)
- Reo Hatate (Celtic)
- Mohamed Kudus (Tottenham)
- Malik Tillman (Bayern Munich)
Among these candidates, the combination of young and experienced players is noteworthy. For example, alongside young talents like 18-year-old Lamin Yamal or Arda Güler, there are also elite-level stars - Bellingham, De Bruyne, and Messi.
The IFFHS emphasizes that the winner will be determined based on the results within the calendar year, not by season. That is, participation in all official and international competitions throughout 2025, effective passes, creativity, and impact on the game will be the main criteria.
Jud Bellingham and Arda Guler's rivalry could attract particular attention in this year's list of candidates. Because both are players who, despite being young, play a central role in Real Madrid. At the same time, Lionel Messi is still proving himself at a high level as a playmaker - he's having a great season in the MLS with Inter Miami.
According to experts, this year's selection is determined not only by statistics, but also by the degree of influence on the game. For example, while De Bruyne is distinguished by his versatile role as a central midfielder for Napoli this year, Arsenal's captain, Martin Ødegaard, is also playing crucial matches for his team in the Premier League.
The voting process has already begun. Sports journalists, coaches, and football experts from around the world are presenting their opinions. The results will be known after December 10.
Thus, it will be known in the coming months who will be the most creative, the most "smart" pass maker in world football. Whether fans await Bellingham's or Messi's victory - or if someone from the new generation manages to make history - time will tell.
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