German soccer continues to thrive with a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young talents. In 2025, these players stand out for their skill, consistency, and impact on both club and international stages. Let’s explore the top 10 German stars dominating the sport this year.
1. Florian Wirtz
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: Bayer Leverkusen
Florian Wirtz is the heartbeat of Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield. At just 21, he combines creativity, vision, and technical brilliance, making him one of Europe’s most sought-after players. In the 2024/25 season, he has already scored 9 goals and provided 9 assists in the Bundesliga, showcasing his ability to influence games. His quick thinking and precise passing have earned comparisons to German legends, and he played a pivotal role in Germany’s UEFA Nations League campaign.
2. Jamal Musiala
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: Bayern Munich
Jamal Musiala’s agility and dribbling make him a nightmare for defenders. After a standout Euro 2024, he has regained his form at Bayern Munich, scoring 10 goals in 16 appearances this season. His versatility allows him to play as a winger or central midfielder, and his partnership with Harry Kane has been crucial for Bayern’s title chase. At 21, Musiala is already a leader on the pitch and a future Ballon d’Or contender.
3. Kai Havertz
Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder
Club: Arsenal
Kai Havertz has flourished at Arsenal, becoming a key player under Mikel Arteta. In the 2024/25 Premier League season, he has scored 14 goals and provided 3 assists, using his height (6’4”) and technical skill to dominate aerial duels. His experience in big matches, including scoring winning goals in Champions League and Club World Cup finals, adds invaluable composure to Germany’s attack.
4. Joshua Kimmich
Position: Midfielder/Right-Back
Club: Bayern Munich
Joshua Kimmich’s leadership and versatility define modern soccer. He excels as a defensive midfielder or right-back, contributing 5 assists in 19 Bundesliga matches this season. Known for his work rate and pinpoint crosses, Kimmich has been central to Bayern’s dominance. With over 240 km covered this season, his stamina and tactical intelligence make him indispensable for both Bayern and Germany.
5. Nico Schlotterbeck
Position: Centre-Back
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Nico Schlotterbeck is a rock in defense for Dortmund. His 71% tackle success rate and ability to read the game have solidified Dortmund’s backline. Standing at 6’3”, he dominates aerial battles and has contributed 2 assists this season. Schlotterbeck’s aggressive yet disciplined style has made him a favorite for Germany’s national team, especially in high-stakes matches.
6. Thomas Müller
Position: Second Striker
Club: Bayern Munich
At 35, Thomas Müller remains a master of positioning and teamwork. With 150 Bundesliga goals, he holds the record for most appearances at Bayern Munich. This season, he’s added 7 goals and 10 assists, proving age hasn’t dulled his instincts. Müller’s experience and humor make him a locker-room leader, and his “raumdeuter” (space interpreter) role continues to confuse opponents.
7. Marc-André ter Stegen
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Barcelona
Marc-André ter Stegen is Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper. His reflexes and ball-playing ability have been vital for Barcelona, earning him the Zamora Trophy for La Liga’s best goalkeeper in 2023/24. This season, he’s kept 12 clean sheets in 24 matches. Ter Stegen’s calmness under pressure and distribution skills set him apart as one of the world’s top keepers.
8. İlkay Gündoğan
Position: Midfielder
Club: Manchester City
İlkay Gündoğan’s intelligence and passing accuracy make him a midfield maestro. At Manchester City, he’s contributed 5 goals and 7 assists in 2024/25, orchestrating play with his signature calmness. A former treble-winning captain at City, Gündoğan’s late runs into the box and leadership are key for Germany’s midfield.
9. Antonio Rüdiger
Position: Centre-Back
Club: Real Madrid
Antonio Rüdiger’s physicality and speed anchor Real Madrid’s defense. His aggressive tackling and aerial prowess have helped Madrid secure La Liga and Champions League titles. This season, he’s won 75% of his duels and scored crucial goals in European matches. Rüdiger’s intensity and vocal presence make him a defensive pillar for Germany.
10. Jonathan Tah
Position: Centre-Back
Club: Bayer Leverkusen
Jonathan Tah combines strength and composure in defense. A key part of Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win in 2023/24, he’s known for his 95.4% pass accuracy this season. At 28, Tah’s ability to build play from the back and shut down attackers has earned him a regular spot in Germany’s lineup.
Conclusion
From seasoned legends like Thomas Müller to rising stars like Florian Wirtz, Germany’s soccer talent pool is deeper than ever. These players excel in their roles, blending technical skill, physicality, and tactical awareness. Whether dominating the Bundesliga or shining internationally, they prove why German soccer remains a global powerhouse. Keep an eye on these stars as they chase trophies and make history in 2025!