Australia has become a powerhouse in international soccer, producing world-class talent that shines both domestically and on the global stage. In 2025, Australian players continue to impress with their skill, leadership, and dedication. Here’s a look at the 10 best Australian professional soccer players making waves this year.
1. Mathew Ryan (Goalkeeper)
Club: AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands)
Age: 32
Mathew Ryan remains Australia’s most reliable goalkeeper. Known for his quick reflexes and leadership, he has been a cornerstone for the Socceroos for over a decade. In 2025, Ryan holds the record for the most clean sheets in Australian national team history. His club career includes stints at Brighton & Hove Albion and Arsenal, and he continues to dominate in the Dutch Eredivisie with crucial saves and commanding presence.
Career Highlights:
- Over 80 caps for Australia
- Played in three FIFA World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022)
- Named AFC Goalkeeper of the Year twice
2. Harry Souttar (Centre-Back)
Club: Leicester City (England)
Age: 26
At 6’7”, Harry Souttar is a towering defender known for his aerial dominance and precise tackling. After a standout 2022 World Cup, he became a key player for Leicester City in the English Premier League. In 2025, he’s praised for his ability to shut down top strikers and contribute to set-piece goals.
Career Highlights:
- Scored 7 goals in 20 appearances for Australia
- Helped Leicester City earn promotion to the Premier League in 2024
- Named to the 2022 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament
3. Jackson Irvine (Midfielder)
Club: FC St. Pauli (Germany)
Age: 31
Jackson Irvine combines physicality and creativity in midfield. As captain of both FC St. Pauli and the Socceroos, he’s a natural leader. His work rate and ability to score from long range make him indispensable. In 2025, he led FC St. Pauli to promotion to the Bundesliga, earning praise as one of the league’s top midfielders.
Career Highlights:
- Over 60 caps and 10 goals for Australia
- 2023 AFC Asian Cup Team of the Tournament
- Bundesliga 2 Player of the Season (2023–24)
4. Craig Goodwin (Winger)
Club: Al-Wehda (Saudi Arabia)
Age: 33
Craig Goodwin is Australia’s most dangerous winger. His speed, crossing, and free-kick expertise have made him a fan favorite. After rejoining Al-Wehda in 2025, he continues to deliver assists and goals in the Saudi Pro League.
Career Highlights:
- Scored Australia’s first goal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup
- Adelaide United’s all-time leading scorer (60+ goals)
- 2023 AFC Asian Cup Golden Boot winner
5. Cameron Burgess (Centre-Back)
Club: Ipswich Town (England)
Age: 29
Cameron Burgess has risen to prominence with Ipswich Town in the Premier League. His composure under pressure and ability to play out from the back have drawn comparisons to top European defenders. In 2025, he’s a defensive pillar for both club and country.
Career Highlights:
- Key player in Ipswich Town’s promotion to the Premier League (2024)
- 15+ clean sheets in the 2023–24 EFL Championship
- Named to the 2024 AFC Asian Cup Team of the Tournament
6. Mitchell Duke (Striker)
Club: Machida Zelvia (Japan)
Age: 34
Veteran striker Mitchell Duke remains Australia’s go-to forward. His physicality and knack for scoring in big moments earned him a move to Japan’s J1 League. In 2025, he’s mentoring younger players while still delivering clutch goals.
Career Highlights:
- Scored the winning goal against Tunisia at the 2022 World Cup
- Over 50 caps and 15 goals for Australia
- J1 League Top Scorer (2024)
7. Martin Boyle (Winger)
Club: Hibernian (Scotland)
Age: 31
Martin Boyle’s blistering pace and dribbling make him a nightmare for defenders. After returning to Hibernian, he’s become a Scottish Premiership standout. His versatility allows him to play on either wing or as a forward.
Career Highlights:
- 20+ assists in the 2023–24 Scottish Premiership
- Scottish Premiership Player of the Month (December 2024)
- Scored a hat-trick in a World Cup qualifier against Vietnam (2023)
8. Ajdin Hrustic (Attacking Midfielder)
Club: Hellas Verona (Italy)
Age: 28
Ajdin Hrustic is Australia’s creative maestro. His vision and passing accuracy have made him a key player for Hellas Verona in Serie A. In 2025, he’s often compared to Italian legends for his ability to control the tempo of games.
Career Highlights:
- Scored a stunning volley in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup final
- Serie A Midfielder of the Month (October 2024)
- 10+ assists in the 2024–25 Serie A season
9. Riley McGree (Midfielder)
Club: Middlesbrough (England)
Age: 26
Riley McGree’s energy and technical skill make him a dynamic box-to-box midfielder. He’s a fan favorite at Middlesbrough and a regular starter for the Socceroos. In 2025, he’s praised for his ability to score from outside the box.
Career Highlights:
- EFL Championship Goal of the Season (2023)
- 5+ goals in World Cup qualifying matches
- Named Middlesbrough’s Player of the Year (2024)
10. Alessandro Circati (Centre-Back)
Club: Parma (Italy)
Age: 21
Alessandro Circati is Australia’s rising star. The young defender has broken into Parma’s starting lineup in Serie A, showcasing maturity beyond his years. His tackling and ability to read the game have made him one of Europe’s most promising defenders.
Career Highlights:
- Youngest Australian to debut in Serie A (2023)
- Named to the 2024 Serie A Best Young Player shortlist
- Helped Parma secure a Europa League spot (2025)
Bottom Line
Australian soccer is thriving in 2025, with players excelling in top leagues like the Premier League, Serie A, and Bundesliga. From seasoned veterans like Mathew Ryan to rising stars like Alessandro Circati, these athletes represent the best of Australian talent. Their dedication and skill continue to inspire the next generation of Socceroos, ensuring Australia remains a force in global soccer.