As the year draws to a close, various awards and best XI selections proliferate. The IFFHS (International Federation of Football History & Statistics) has unveiled its 2025 best XI, featuring five Paris Saint-Germain players: Ousmane Dembélé, Vitinha, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, and Achraf Hakimi. Gianluigi Donnarumma, the goalkeeper who spent the first half of the year with PSG before signing for Manchester City, is also included.
One immediately notices a flaw in such a best XI: its lack of realism, with five forwards and three defenders, two of whom are primarily attack-minded. However, it’s easy to acknowledge that these players have had remarkable 2025s. It’s particularly gratifying to see Willian Pacho highlighted, as some seem to have overlooked his rise to the top. And, like the other players featured, he has also performed well for his national team.
It’s always possible to discuss the different choices, and we don’t intend to debate everything. Everyone can create their ideal starting eleven, even if some players seem indispensable for 2025. Like the Parisians present here, given how much PSG has defined 2025. Désiré Doué, João Neves, and Fabian Ruiz, in particular, could also have earned a place here. Possibly, with a more balanced team.
