Canada’s soccer scene is booming, with players making waves in top leagues across Europe and North America. From lightning-fast wingers to clinical strikers and rock-solid defenders, these athletes are raising the bar for Canadian soccer. Here are the 10 best Canadian soccer players dominating the game in 2025.
1. Alphonso Davies
Position: Left-Back / Winger
Club: Bayern Munich (Germany)
Salary: C$12.3 million/year
Alphonso Davies isn’t just Canada’s best player—he’s a global superstar. Known for his blistering speed and technical skill, Davies has become a key player for Bayern Munich, helping them win multiple Bundesliga titles. His versatility allows him to excel as a left-back or winger, making him a nightmare for defenders. As Canada’s captain, he’s the heartbeat of the national team, inspiring a new generation of players.
2. Jonathan David
Position: Striker
Club: LOSC Lille (France)
Salary: C$3.3 million/year
Jonathan David is Canada’s goal-scoring machine. With a knack for finding the back of the net, he’s been pivotal for Lille in France’s Ligue 1. His intelligent movement and calm finishing have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers. David’s partnership with Davies on the national team is crucial as Canada prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
3. Ismaël Koné
Position: Midfielder
Club: Olympique Marseille (France)
Salary: C$2 million/year
Ismaël Koné’s rise has been meteoric. The 22-year-old midfielder combines physicality with precise passing, anchoring Marseille’s midfield in Ligue 1. His ability to break up opposition plays and launch attacks has drawn comparisons to top European midfielders. Koné’s growth is symbolic of Canada’s deepening talent pool.
4. Stephen Eustáquio
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Club: FC Porto (Portugal)
Salary: C$0.6 million/year
Eustáquio is the glue of Canada’s midfield. At Porto, he’s known for his work rate, tactical awareness, and ability to control the tempo of games. While not the highest earner, his leadership and consistency make him indispensable for both club and country.
5. Alistair Johnston
Position: Right-Back
Club: Celtic FC (Scotland)
Salary: C$1.6 million/year
Alistair Johnston’s tenacity and defensive grit have made him a fan favorite at Celtic. His overlapping runs and crossing ability add width to attacks, while his defensive reliability shuts down opponents. Johnston’s rise from MLS to Europe highlights Canada’s growing reputation in soccer.
6. Tajon Buchanan
Position: Winger
Club: Inter Milan (Italy)
Salary: C$0.6 million/year
Buchanan’s flair and dribbling skills have earned him a spot at Inter Milan, one of Italy’s top clubs. His fearless style of play makes him a constant threat on the wing. After starting his career in MLS, he’s become a symbol of Canada’s ability to develop world-class talent.
7. Moïse Bombito
Position: Center-Back
Club: Colorado Rapids (MLS)
Salary: C$1 million/year
Bombito is a towering presence in defense. Standing at 6’3”, he dominates aerial duels and reads the game brilliantly. His performances for the Colorado Rapids have sparked interest from European clubs, signaling a bright future.
8. Derek Cornelius
Position: Center-Back
Club: Malmö FF (Sweden)
Salary: C$1.3 million/year
Cornelius brings stability to Canada’s backline. His composure under pressure and strong tackling have made him a standout in Sweden’s top league. A quiet leader, he’s essential for organizing the defense during high-stakes matches.
9. Jacob Shaffelburg
Position: Winger
Club: Nashville SC (MLS)
Salary: C$0.2 million/year
Shaffelburg’s speed and directness terrorize defenders. Though his salary is modest, his impact on the field is huge. His ability to deliver crosses and cut inside for shots adds dynamism to Canada’s attack.
10. Niko Sigur
Position: Midfielder
Club: Hajduk Split (Croatia)
Salary: C$0.2 million/year
Sigur is a rising playmaker with vision and creativity. At Hajduk Split, he’s honed his ability to dictate play and create scoring chances. Still early in his career, he represents the future of Canadian soccer.
Bottom Line
With the 2026 World Cup on home soil, Canada’s players are poised to shine. Stars like Davies and David are leading the charge, while younger talents like Koné and Sigur ensure the pipeline remains strong. From Europe’s elite leagues to MLS, Canadian players are proving they belong on the global stage. Whether you’re a casual fan or a soccer enthusiast, these 10 players are worth watching as Canada continues its soccer revolution.