Top 11 Best Players Of The 2022 World Cup

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was a tournament filled with incredible moments, stunning goals, and unforgettable performances. While Argentina emerged victorious, lifting the coveted trophy, the tournament showcased a plethora of world-class talent. Narrowing down the best players from such a high-caliber competition is no easy task, but based on consistent performance, impact on their team, and overall contribution to the tournament, here’s my take on the top 11 players who shone the brightest at the 2022 World Cup.

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Let's kick things off with the obvious choice, Lionel Messi. Guys, what more can be said about this legend? The maestro finally conquered the one trophy that had eluded him throughout his illustrious career, and he did it in spectacular fashion. Messi wasn't just a passenger on Argentina's journey; he was the driving force, the inspiration, and the clutch performer they needed. With seven goals and three assists, he won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, proving that age is just a number when you possess otherworldly talent and unwavering determination. His dribbling was mesmerizing, his passing incisive, and his finishing clinical. Every time he touched the ball, you felt something special was about to happen. More than the stats, it was his leadership and sheer will to win that truly stood out. He carried the hopes of a nation on his shoulders and delivered in spades. Lionel Messi's performance at the 2022 World Cup cemented his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time, if there was any doubt before. It was a fairytale ending to a career that has been nothing short of magical, and watching him lift that trophy was a moment that will be etched in the memories of football fans forever. His vision on the field, his uncanny ability to find space, and his knack for scoring crucial goals were all on full display. He orchestrated Argentina's attacks with precision, dictated the tempo of the game, and consistently created opportunities for his teammates. Beyond his individual brilliance, Messi also demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, inspiring his teammates and galvanizing the entire nation behind their quest for glory.

2. Kylian Mbappé (France)

Speaking of generational talents, we have to talk about Kylian Mbappé. This dude was on fire throughout the tournament, especially in the final. Scoring a hat-trick in a World Cup final is insane! Mbappé finished as the tournament's top scorer with eight goals, showcasing his blistering pace, incredible finishing ability, and unwavering confidence. He terrorized defenses with his direct runs and proved to be a constant threat in the penalty area. While France fell short in the final, Mbappé's individual brilliance was undeniable, solidifying his status as one of the best players in the world. His speed is unmatched, his technique is flawless, and his determination is unwavering. He possesses all the attributes of a complete forward, and he has the potential to dominate the world of football for years to come. Even at such a young age, Mbappé has already achieved remarkable success, winning numerous titles with Paris Saint-Germain and leading France to victory at the 2018 World Cup. He thrives under pressure and consistently delivers on the biggest stage, making him a true superstar of the game. In addition to his goal-scoring prowess, Mbappé also demonstrated his playmaking abilities, creating numerous chances for his teammates. His vision and passing range are exceptional, and he has the ability to unlock even the most stubborn defenses. He is a constant threat to opposing teams, and his presence on the field elevates the performance of those around him.

3. Emiliano Martínez (Argentina)

Emiliano Martínez, or 'Dibu' as he's affectionately known, was a rock in goal for Argentina. His penalty shootout heroics against the Netherlands and France were absolutely clutch. Beyond the shootouts, his commanding presence, incredible reflexes, and timely saves were crucial to Argentina's success. He won the Golden Glove award for the tournament's best goalkeeper, a testament to his outstanding performances. Martínez's journey to becoming a World Cup hero is a remarkable one, as he spent several years as a backup goalkeeper before finally getting his chance to shine. He seized the opportunity with both hands, proving that perseverance and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements. His confidence and self-belief are infectious, and he has become a beloved figure among Argentine fans. He is a true leader on the field, inspiring his teammates with his passion and commitment. His ability to read the game and anticipate shots is exceptional, and he possesses the agility and reflexes to make even the most difficult saves. He is a complete goalkeeper, and his contribution to Argentina's World Cup triumph cannot be overstated. His distribution is also excellent, and he is comfortable playing the ball out from the back, which is an increasingly important attribute for modern goalkeepers. His presence in goal provides a sense of security and confidence to the entire team, allowing them to play with greater freedom and express themselves on the field.

4. Antoine Griezmann (France)

Antoine Griezmann reinvented himself at this World Cup, playing a more central and creative role for France. While he didn't score as many goals as in previous tournaments, his work rate, tactical awareness, and playmaking abilities were invaluable. He was the engine of the French team, linking defense and attack with his tireless running and intelligent passing. Griezmann's versatility and adaptability make him a valuable asset to any team, as he is capable of playing in a variety of positions and fulfilling different roles. He is a true team player, always putting the needs of the team ahead of his own personal ambitions. His work ethic is exceptional, and he never stops running or pressing, making him a nightmare for opposing defenders. He is also a highly intelligent player, with a keen understanding of tactics and positioning. He is able to read the game and anticipate the movements of his teammates and opponents, allowing him to make intelligent decisions on the field. His passing range is excellent, and he is able to pick out teammates with pinpoint accuracy, creating numerous scoring opportunities. He is a complete midfielder, and his contribution to France's success at the World Cup was immense.

5. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Achraf Hakimi was a standout performer for Morocco, who made history by becoming the first African team to reach the World Cup semi-finals. His attacking prowess, defensive solidity, and tireless energy were crucial to Morocco's success. He was a constant threat down the right flank, providing width and pace to their attacks. Hakimi's performances at the World Cup have cemented his status as one of the best right-backs in the world. His speed, agility, and technical ability make him a formidable opponent for any winger. He is also a strong and physical defender, capable of winning tackles and intercepting passes. His work rate is exceptional, and he never stops running or tracking back, making him a valuable asset to his team. He is also a confident and composed player, able to handle pressure and make intelligent decisions on the field. His crossing ability is excellent, and he is able to deliver accurate balls into the penalty area, creating numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates. He is a complete full-back, and his contribution to Morocco's historic run at the World Cup was immense.

6. Dominik Livaković (Croatia)

Croatia's Dominik Livaković was a penalty shootout king! He made some incredible saves throughout the tournament, especially in the penalty shootouts against Japan and Brazil. His composure under pressure and shot-stopping ability were instrumental in Croatia's journey to the semi-finals. Livaković emerged as a true hero for Croatia at the World Cup, showcasing his exceptional goalkeeping skills on the world stage. His penalty-saving heroics will be remembered for years to come, as he helped his team overcome difficult opponents and progress through the knockout stages. He is a calm and collected goalkeeper, with excellent reflexes and a strong command of his area. He is also a good distributor of the ball, able to launch quick counter-attacks with his accurate throws and kicks. His performances at the World Cup have earned him widespread recognition, and he is now considered one of the top goalkeepers in the world.

7. Jude Bellingham (England)

At just 19 years old, Jude Bellingham was a revelation for England. His energy, tackling, and box-to-box play were crucial to England's midfield dominance. He showed maturity beyond his years and proved to be a star in the making. Bellingham's performances at the World Cup have confirmed his status as one of the most promising young talents in world football. His athleticism, technical ability, and tactical awareness make him a complete midfielder, capable of contributing in all areas of the pitch. He is a tireless runner, with excellent tackling and interception skills. He is also a creative passer, able to unlock defenses with his incisive through balls. His maturity and leadership qualities are also impressive, and he has the potential to become a future captain for England.

8. Enzo Fernández (Argentina)

Enzo Fernández was a revelation for Argentina after being introduced into the starting lineup. His energy, passing range, and tackling ability provided a much-needed boost to Argentina's midfield. He won the Young Player Award, a testament to his outstanding performances. Fernández quickly established himself as a key player for Argentina at the World Cup, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential. His energy and dynamism in midfield were crucial to Argentina's success, as he helped to control the tempo of the game and win back possession. He is a technically gifted player, with excellent passing range and dribbling skills. He is also a tenacious tackler, able to win back possession and disrupt opposition attacks. His performances at the World Cup have earned him widespread recognition, and he is now considered one of the most promising young midfielders in the world.

9. Casemiro (Brazil)

Casemiro provided the steel and experience in Brazil's midfield. His tackling, interceptions, and tactical awareness were crucial to Brazil's defensive stability. While Brazil didn't reach their ultimate goal, Casemiro's performances were consistently strong. Casemiro's experience and leadership were invaluable for Brazil at the World Cup, providing a solid foundation for their attacking players to express themselves. His tackling and interception skills were crucial in breaking up opposition attacks, while his passing range and tactical awareness helped to control the tempo of the game. He is a true professional, with a strong work ethic and a commitment to his team. His performances at the World Cup have further cemented his status as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

10. Ivan Perišić (Croatia)

Ivan Perišić was a tireless worker for Croatia, contributing with goals, assists, and relentless running. His versatility and experience were crucial to Croatia's success. He may be getting older, but he still has the quality to make a difference. Perišić's experience and versatility were crucial for Croatia at the World Cup, providing a threat in attack and a solid work rate in defense. He is a technically gifted player, with excellent crossing ability and a knack for scoring important goals. He is also a strong and physical player, able to compete with defenders and win aerial duels. His performances at the World Cup have shown that he is still a valuable asset to any team, despite his advancing years.

11. Bukayo Saka (England)

Bukayo Saka was a bright spark for England, showcasing his dribbling skills, pace, and eye for goal. He provided a constant threat down the right flank and proved to be a valuable asset to England's attack. He's definitely a star for the future. Saka's performances at the World Cup have shown that he is one of the most exciting young talents in English football. His dribbling skills, pace, and eye for goal make him a constant threat to opposing defenders. He is also a versatile player, able to play in a variety of positions across the front line. His performances at the World Cup have earned him widespread recognition, and he is now considered one of the key players for England's future.

This list is, of course, subjective, and many other players could easily have been included. The 2022 World Cup was a celebration of footballing talent, and these 11 players represent just a small fraction of the incredible performances we witnessed. What do you guys think? Who would make your top 11? Let me know in the comments below!