Soccer fans around the globe know South America as a powerhouse of talent. The continent has produced legends like Pelé, Maradona, and Ronaldinho—and today’s stars continue to shine brightly. In 2025, South American players dominate Europe’s top leagues, inspire their national teams, and deliver unforgettable moments on the pitch. Let’s explore the 10 best South American soccer players making waves this year.
1. Vinicius Junior (Brazil | Real Madrid)
Position: Left Winger
Key Stats (2024-25): 13 goals + assists in La Liga, 46 goal contributions in 2024
Vinicius Junior has risen to become the face of Brazilian soccer. After winning the 2024 FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award, he led Real Madrid to a historic Champions League title, scoring the winning goal in the final. His electrifying speed, dribbling, and clutch performances make him a nightmare for defenders. Off the field, he’s a vocal advocate against racism, pushing for global change in the sport.
Career Highlights:
- 2024 Copa América winner with Brazil
- 3x Champions League winner (2022, 2024)
- 2024 FIFA Intercontinental Cup top scorer
2. Lautaro Martínez (Argentina | Inter Milan)
Position: Striker
Key Stats (2024-25): 12 goals in 29 matches for Inter Milan, 6 goals in January 2025 alone
Lautaro Martínez is Argentina’s goal-scoring machine. As Inter Milan’s captain, he bounced back from a slow start in 2024 to become Serie A’s top scorer. His leadership guided Argentina to Copa América glory, where he netted the winning goal in the final.
Career Highlights:
- 2024 Copa América champion and Golden Boot winner
- 2023 Serie A top scorer
- Over 150 career goals for club and country
3. Lionel Messi (Argentina | Inter Miami)
Position: Forward
Key Stats (2024-25): 39 goal contributions for Inter Miami in 2024
Even at 37, Messi remains a magician. After joining Inter Miami in 2023, he transformed the MLS club into title contenders, winning the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. Though he’s no longer in Europe, his vision, passing, and free-kick mastery keep him among soccer’s elite.
Career Highlights:
- 45 career trophies (most in history)
- 8x Ballon d’Or winner
- 2022 World Cup champion with Argentina
4. Federico Valverde (Uruguay | Real Madrid)
Position: Central Midfielder
Key Stats (2024-25): 8 goals + assists in 36 matches for Real Madrid
Valverde is the engine of Real Madrid’s midfield. Known for his tireless work rate and rocket-like long shots, he’s crucial in both attack and defense. In 2024, he helped Uruguay secure third place in the Copa América while maintaining his role as Madrid’s most reliable player.
Career Highlights:
- 3x Champions League winner
- 2024 FIFA Intercontinental Cup Silver Ball winner
- Over 250 appearances for Real Madrid
5. Rodrygo (Brazil | Real Madrid)
Position: Right Winger
Key Stats (2024-25): 6 goals + 5 assists in La Liga
Rodrygo thrives under pressure. His late-game heroics in the 2024 Champions League semifinals secured Real Madrid’s place in the final. With Karim Benzema retired, Rodrygo’s creativity and finishing have made him indispensable.
Career Highlights:
- 2x Champions League winner (2022, 2024)
- 2023 Copa del Rey final MVP
- Scored 50+ goals for Real Madrid before turning 24
6. Raphinha (Brazil | Barcelona)
Position: Right Winger
Key Stats (2024-25): 17 goals + 10 assists in all competitions
Raphinha silenced his critics with a career-best year at Barcelona. His partnership with Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski propelled Barça to La Liga title contention. A left-footed maestro, he’s now a Ballon d’Or dark horse.
Career Highlights:
- 2024 La Liga Team of the Season
- Key player in Brazil’s Copa América squad
- 100+ career assists
7. Gabriel Magalhães (Brazil | Arsenal)
Position: Center-Back
Key Stats (2024-25): 3 goals, 25 blocks, 89% aerial duel success
Gabriel is Arsenal’s defensive rock. His strength, positioning, and threat during set-pieces make him one of the Premier League’s best defenders. In 2024, he anchored Arsenal’s backline to a Champions League semifinal berth.
Career Highlights:
- 2023-24 Premier League Team of the Season
- 7 clean sheets in 21 league matches (2024-25)
- Key player in Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers
8. Emiliano Martínez (Argentina | Aston Villa)
Position: Goalkeeper
Key Stats (2024-25): 12 clean sheets, 84% save rate
Martínez is the world’s best shot-stopper. His penalty-saving prowess won Argentina the 2024 Copa América, and he’s equally vital for Aston Villa’s rise in the Premier League.
Career Highlights:
- 2022 World Cup Golden Glove winner
- 2024 Copa América champion
- 50+ career clean sheets
9. Luis Díaz (Colombia | Liverpool)
Position: Left Winger
Key Stats (2024-25): 8 goals in 12 Premier League matches
Díaz combines creativity with relentless energy. He carried Colombia to the 2024 Copa América final and remains Liverpool’s most consistent attacker.
Career Highlights:
- 2024 Copa América Golden Boot runner-up
- 2023-24 Premier League Team of the Season
- 30+ career goals for Liverpool
10. Matheus Cunha (Brazil | Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Position: Forward
Key Stats (2024-25): 9 goals in 20 matches for Wolves.
Despite Wolves’ relegation battle, Cunha shines as a one-man attack. His dribbling and finishing have attracted interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.
Career Highlights:
- 2024 Copa América semifinalist with Brazil
- Wolves’ Player of the Season (2023-24)
- 50+ career goals
Bottom Line
South American players bring passion, skill, and flair to the game. From Vinicius’s speed to Martínez’s clinical finishing, these stars prove why the continent remains soccer’s beating heart. Whether you’re cheering for a last-minute winner or a jaw-dropping dribble, these 10 players are must-watch talents in 2025!