France has long been a powerhouse in global soccer, producing world-class talents who dominate leagues and international tournaments. As we step into 2025, the French squad remains a blend of seasoned veterans and electrifying young stars. Let’s explore the 10 best French soccer players lighting up the sport this year, from goal-scoring maestros to rock-solid defenders.
1. Kylian Mbappé
Club: Real Madrid | Position: Forward
Kylian Mbappé is not just France’s best player—he’s one of the greatest in the world. After joining Real Madrid in 2024, he quickly became the face of their attack, combining blistering speed, clinical finishing, and unmatched creativity.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 43 goals, 10 assists in 46 games
- Key Strength: Ability to single-handedly change games with his pace and dribbling
- Did You Know? He’s the first player since 1966 to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final (2022)
Mbappé’s leadership and consistency make him the undisputed star of French soccer.
2. Antoine Griezmann
Club: Atlético Madrid | Position: Attacking Midfielder/Forward
Griezmann is the ultimate team player. His vision, work rate, and knack for scoring crucial goals keep him vital for both club and country.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 21 goals, 8 assists in 44 games
- Key Strength: Master of linking midfield and attack with clever passes
- Fun Fact: He’s France’s fourth-highest scorer and fifth-most capped player
Even at 34, Griezmann’s intelligence and technical skill keep him at the top.
3. Théo Hernandez
Club: AC Milan | Position: Left-Back
Hernandez redefines the role of a modern full-back. Defensively solid and offensively explosive, he’s a nightmare for opponents.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 5 goals, 10 assists in 44 games
- Key Strength: Combines defensive grit with overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses
- Standout Trait: Ranked among the top three attacking left-backs globally
His energy and versatility make him indispensable for France’s backline.
4. Aurélien Tchouaméni
Club: Real Madrid | Position: Defensive Midfielder
Tchouaméni is the engine of France’s midfield. His ability to break up plays and launch attacks has made him a key player for Real Madrid.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 3 goals, 1 assist, 85% tackle success rate
- Key Strength: Dominates midfield battles with physicality and precise passing
- Cool Fact: Nicknamed “The Wall” for his ball-winning skills
At just 25, he’s already a Champions League winner and a midfield general.
5. William Saliba
Club: Arsenal | Position: Center-Back
Saliba has grown into one of the Premier League’s best defenders. His calmness, aerial ability, and tackling make him a cornerstone for Arsenal and France.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 2 goals, 1 assist, 38% clean sheet rate
- Key Strength: Rarely dribbled past—combines speed with intelligent positioning
- Rising Star: Tipped to lead France’s defense for the next decade
Saliba’s maturity belies his age (23), making him a future captain candidate.
6. Eduardo Camavinga
Club: Real Madrid | Position: Midfielder
Camavinga’s versatility allows him to shine in midfield or even at left-back. His technical skill and composure under pressure are exceptional.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 3 assists, 91% pass accuracy
- Key Strength: Glides past opponents effortlessly and rarely loses possession
- Coach Praise: Carlo Ancelotti called him a “Ferrari engine”
At 22, he’s already a multiple Champions League winner.
7. Mike Maignan
Club: AC Milan | Position: Goalkeeper
Maignan has replaced Hugo Lloris as France’s No. 1 goalkeeper. His reflexes and command of the penalty area are world-class.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 15 clean sheets, 70% save rate
- Key Strength: Expert at parrying shots to safety and starting counterattacks
- Nickname: “Magic Mike” for his jaw-dropping saves
Maignan’s consistency makes him a top-three goalkeeper globally.
8. Marcus Thuram
Club: Inter Milan | Position: Forward
Thuram combines physicality with technical flair, thriving as a striker or winger. His 2023/24 Serie A title win with Inter showcased his potential.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 14 goals, 13 assists in 43 games
- Key Strength: Strong in the air and a creative playmaker
- Legacy: Son of World Cup winner Lilian Thuram
At 27, he’s entering his prime and could become France’s starting striker.
9. Olivier Giroud
Club: Los Angeles FC | Position: Striker
Even at 38, Giroud remains a goal machine. His hold-up play and aerial dominance are unmatched.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 16 goals, 9 assists in 44 games (AC Milan)
- Key Strength: Master of scoring acrobatic goals and creating chances
- Record: France’s all-time top scorer (57 goals)
Giroud’s experience and leadership are invaluable for younger teammates.
10. Jules Koundé
Club: Barcelona | Position: Center-Back/Right-Back
Koundé’s speed and versatility allow him to excel in multiple defensive roles. His ability to neutralize fast wingers is crucial for France.
- 2024/25 Highlights: 2 goals, 4 assists, 86% tackle success
- Key Strength: Smooth transitions from defense to attack
- Bonus: Comfortable playing out from the back like a midfielder
At 26, he’s entering his peak years as a world-class defender.
Conclusion
France’s soccer talent pool is deeper than ever in 2025. From Mbappé’s electrifying runs to Saliba’s rock-solid defending, these players embody skill, passion, and versatility. Whether dominating leagues in England, Spain, or Italy, they continue to raise the bar for global soccer. Keep an eye on rising stars like Camavinga and Thuram—they’re just getting started!