Top 24 in 2024. The best footballers in South America according to Dailysports
Dailysports has already prepared four articles in the series “Top 24 in 2024.” This time, we bring you the final piece in this series.
Here is the Top 24 best footballers in North America in 2024, as ranked by Dailysports.
24. Matheus Cunha (Brazil, Wolverhampton)
Although he doesn’t play for the most high-profile club, Cunha has been performing very well there. In the previous campaign, he was Wolves' main striker, featuring in 36 matches, scoring 14 goals, and providing eight assists. Unfortunately, this wasn’t enough to secure a spot in the 2024 Copa América. Despite this, he remains a key player for Wolverhampton and continues to impress this season. In 21 matches, he has already scored ten goals and provided four assists. Wolverhampton may not be achieving great results overall, but Cunha is undoubtedly one of the team's bright spots, as evidenced by rumors linking him to a move to one of the Premier League’s top clubs soon.
23. Enzo Fernández (Argentina, Chelsea)
Enzo had a somewhat mixed year. While he remained a key player for Chelsea last season, featuring in 40 matches and contributing seven goals and three assists, the end of the season saw him sidelined due to surgery. He returned just in time for the Copa América, where he played five matches, registered two assists, and won the trophy. At the start of this season, Enzo initially lost his place in the starting lineup but gradually returned to form and has been delivering quality performances. Currently, he is an undisputed starter and vice-captain for Chelsea. In 25 matches this season, he has scored three goals and provided eight assists.
22. Lucas Paquetá (Brazil, West Ham)
It’s hard to imagine the current West Ham without this midfielder. Last season, Paquetá played 43 matches for the Hammers, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists. He also participated in the Copa América, featuring in four matches. Although Brazil was eliminated in the quarterfinals, Paquetá remained one of the team's standout players, scoring one goal and providing one assist during the tournament. This season, Lucas has already played 24 matches in all competitions for West Ham and has scored five goals.
21. Cristian Romero (Argentina, Tottenham)
A player indispensable to Spurs' defense, and this season is proof of that. In the previous campaign, Romero played 34 matches for Tottenham, scoring five goals, but more importantly, he was a key figure in the London side’s defense. His contributions were instrumental in helping the team finish fifth in the league. Romero also played a pivotal role in Argentina's back-to-back Copa América triumph in the summer of 2024. In the new season, he started as Tottenham’s first-choice center-back, but a series of injuries sidelined him for several months. Without his stability at the back, the team has dropped to 15th place in the Premier League.
20. James Rodríguez (Colombia, São Paulo, Rayo Vallecano, Club León)
At the start of the year, it seemed Rodríguez was winding down his career at São Paulo, but the summer of 2024 turned that narrative around. He had a sensational Copa América, playing all six matches and helping Colombia reach the tournament final, earning silver medals.
In those games, Rodríguez scored one goal and delivered six assists, becoming the tournament's top assist provider and best player. His outstanding performances for the national team gave him a second chance in Europe. He signed with Rayo Vallecano but managed only seven appearances and one assist before moving to Club León.
19. Mauro Icardi (Argentina, Galatasaray)
The Argentine striker had an excellent previous season, showcasing his best qualities. Across 47 matches in all competitions, Icardi scored 32 goals and provided 12 assists. He led Galatasaray to the Turkish league title and earned the individual accolade of Super Lig top scorer. He started the current season strongly as well, with six goals and two assists in 14 matches. However, in November, he suffered a severe knee injury, likely ruling him out for the rest of the season.
18. Savinho (Brazil, Girona, Manchester City)
The young talent had a stellar season with Girona, helping the team secure an unprecedented third-place finish and their first-ever qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Last season, he played 41 matches, scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists. Savinho also participated in the 2024 Copa América, playing four matches and scoring one goal, though Brazil’s run ended in the quarterfinals. In the summer of 2024, the Brazilian signed with Manchester City and has already played 27 matches for his new club, contributing one goal and eight assists. At just 20 years old, if he continues to progress at this rate, Savinho could climb significantly higher in future rankings.
17. Ángel Di María (Argentina, Benfica)
At 36 years old, Di María continues to showcase exceptional football, now representing Benfica. Last season, he played 48 matches across all competitions for the Eagles, scoring 17 goals and providing 15 assists. Di María also featured in the 2024 Copa América, contributing one assist and winning another title with the Argentine national team. After the tournament, he announced his retirement from international football but remains a key player for Benfica. This season, he has already played 27 matches, scoring 13 goals and delivering seven assists. He also won the Portuguese League Cup with the team and is rumored to be considering an extension with Benfica.
16. Piero Hincapié (Ecuador, Bayer Leverkusen)
The young defender displayed maturity and reliability last season, making him a standout at Bayer Leverkusen. He played 43 matches across all competitions, scoring one goal, but his defensive solidity was far more significant. Leverkusen had an extraordinary campaign, winning the Bundesliga unbeaten, securing the DFB-Pokal, and reaching the UEFA Europa League final.
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Hincapié also played a pivotal role for Ecuador in the Copa América, featuring in all four matches as they advanced to the quarterfinals. This season, he remains a cornerstone of Leverkusen’s defense, appearing in 25 matches across all competitions and scoring another goal.
15. Moisés Caicedo (Ecuador, Chelsea)
Another Ecuadorian in our rankings, Caicedo made headlines with his big-money move to Chelsea. While the first half of last season was challenging for him, he and Chelsea finished the season strongly, securing European qualification. This season, Caicedo has become indispensable for the Blues, playing a critical role in their midfield. Chelsea has started the campaign strongly and is among the contenders for UEFA Champions League qualification, thanks in part to Caicedo's consistent performances. Last season, he played 48 matches for Chelsea, and this season, he has already appeared in 23 games.
14. Alisson Becker (Brazil, Liverpool)
Alisson began last season as Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper, continuing his consistent role over recent years. However, in February, he suffered a significant injury that sidelined him until April. Overall, he played 32 matches, conceding 32 goals and keeping 11 clean sheets. Alisson was also Brazil's starting goalkeeper at the 2024 Copa América, conceding only two goals in four matches and keeping two clean sheets. Despite his solid performances, Brazil was eliminated in the quarterfinals.
13. Ederson (Brazil, Manchester City)
The undisputed number one goalkeeper for Manchester City in recent seasons, and last year was no exception. Ederson played 43 matches for City, conceding 34 goals and keeping 16 clean sheets. His contributions were crucial in helping the team win the Premier League title. However, he missed the 2024 Copa América due to a serious eye injury. This season, Ederson has once again solidified his place in City's starting lineup, playing 19 matches so far, with four clean sheets.
12. Bruno Guimarães (Brazil, Newcastle)
Newcastle made no mistake in signing Bruno Guimarães, who has become increasingly influential with each passing season. Last season was particularly impressive for the midfielder, as he played 50 matches in all competitions, scoring seven goals and providing ten assists. While Newcastle failed to qualify for European competitions, Guimarães had a standout campaign. He also performed well at the Copa América, although Brazil was knocked out in the quarterfinals. This season, Bruno has already played 27 matches for Newcastle, scoring two goals and delivering eight assists. Newcastle is performing well, and Guimarães' contribution has been significant. Furthermore, he has taken on the role of team captain this season.
11. Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina, Liverpool)
Mac Allister joined Liverpool from Brighton before the start of last season and quickly adapted to his new team. He played 46 matches in all competitions, helping the Reds win the EFL Cup. Along the way, he scored seven goals and provided seven assists. Mac Allister also played a vital role for Argentina at the Copa América, where he recorded two assists and won another trophy with his national team. In the current season, Mac Allister remains a key player under Liverpool's new manager. He has already played 29 matches, scoring three goals and providing three assists. Liverpool currently sits atop the Premier League table, with Mac Allister playing a crucial role as an indispensable part of their midfield.
10. Lionel Messi (Argentina, Inter Miami)
The legendary Argentine footballer delivered yet another remarkable and productive season. Messi featured in the 2024 Copa América, playing five matches, scoring one goal, and providing one assist. He added another trophy to his illustrious collection with the Argentine national team. In the MLS, Messi missed a significant portion of the season due to an injury sustained in the Copa América final. However, during his time on the pitch, he managed to score 23 goals and provide 13 assists in 25 matches. He also helped Inter Miami secure the MLS regular-season title.
9. Julián Álvarez (Argentina, Manchester City, Atlético Madrid)
Álvarez had a packed and eventful last season. He played 54 matches for Manchester City across all competitions, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists. He also contributed to City’s Premier League triumph. In the summer, Álvarez had little rest, representing Argentina at the Copa América, where he played five matches, scored two goals, and provided one assist.
Additionally, he participated in the 2024 Olympic Games, playing four matches and delivering two assists, although Argentina exited in the quarterfinals. Following the summer, Álvarez joined Atlético Madrid and has since played 29 matches, scoring 14 goals and providing two assists for Diego Simeone’s side, where he has become a key player.
8. Luis Díaz (Colombia, Liverpool)
Last season, Díaz established himself as one of Liverpool’s attacking leaders. He featured in 51 matches for the Reds across all competitions, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists. Díaz also helped Liverpool secure the EFL Cup. With Colombia, he participated in the 2024 Copa América, where he was a standout player, scoring two goals and earning a silver medal. This season, Díaz remains a vital figure for Liverpool and has been even more productive. In 28 matches, he has already scored 12 goals and provided three assists, putting him on track to surpass last season's numbers.
7. Gabriel (Brazil, Arsenal)
The center-back who is now nearly synonymous with Arsenal's defense, Gabriel is a true pillar at the heart of the Gunners' backline. Last season, he played 50 matches across all competitions, scoring four goals. With Arsenal, he finished second in the Premier League. Gabriel was part of Brazil's squad for the 2024 Copa América but played only one match during the tournament. This season, he remains Arsenal’s first-choice center-back, with 29 appearances so far across all competitions. Notably, Arsenal has excelled on set pieces, and Gabriel has already scored five goals and provided one assist this season.
6. Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa)
A goalkeeper playing for a team outside the traditional elite but delivering extraordinary performances. Last season, Martínez played 47 matches in all competitions for Aston Villa, keeping 15 clean sheets. His efforts helped Villa secure a top-four finish and return to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 41 years. In the summer, Martínez had a stellar Copa América, featuring in all six matches, saving a penalty shootout, conceding just one goal throughout the tournament, and earning the Best Goalkeeper award alongside the 2024 Copa América gold medal. This season, Martínez continues as Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper, with 28 appearances and seven clean sheets.
5. Rodrygo (Brazil, Real Madrid)
At just 24 years old, the winger plays a crucial role for both his club and country. Last season, Rodrygo featured in 52 matches for Real Madrid, scoring 18 goals and providing nine assists. He contributed to a historic season for Madrid, winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. However, his performances with Brazil have been less impactful, as he failed to register any goal contributions in four Copa América matches. At Real Madrid, though, Rodrygo thrives. This season, he has played 24 matches, scoring seven goals and providing four assists. A highly promising player, he’s expected to climb even higher in future rankings.
4. Raphinha (Brazil, Barcelona)
Last season was not particularly remarkable for the Brazilian winger, but towards the end, he started showing decent form. Across 37 matches, Raphinha scored ten goals and provided 13 assists. At the Copa América, he played all four matches, scoring once, but couldn’t lift the team to greater success. However, this season, Raphinha has been sensational.
In 29 league matches, he has scored 20 goals and provided 11 assists. He has also taken on the captaincy of Barcelona and has become a key figure in their attack. Raphinha helped Barcelona win the Spanish Super Cup, scoring twice in a 5–2 thrashing of Real Madrid in the final. Despite summer transfer rumors, Raphinha’s outstanding performances and leadership qualities have made him indispensable to the team.
3. Federico Valverde (Uruguay, Real Madrid)
A remarkably consistent and vital player in the heart of Real Madrid's midfield, Valverde had an excellent previous season. He featured in 55 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing eight assists. Valverde played a crucial role in Madrid’s triumphs in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
He also had a strong showing at the 2024 Copa América, where he played six matches, scored one goal, and earned a bronze medal with Uruguay. This season, Valverde has already played 30 matches for Real Madrid, scoring eight goals. With Toni Kroos retiring, Valverde has stepped up as a leader in Madrid’s midfield, showcasing his versatility and influence.
2. Vinícius Júnior (Brazil, Real Madrid)
The Brazilian winger is currently the undisputed leader of Real Madrid's attack. Last season, Vinícius played 40 matches for the Royal Club, scoring 25 goals and providing 12 assists. He was instrumental in helping Madrid win the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. In the Champions League, he scored six goals and was among the best forwards of the tournament. This season, Vinícius has played 25 matches, scoring 14 goals and delivering 10 assists. Despite some inconsistencies in Real Madrid’s overall performances, Vinícius has shown remarkable stability on the pitch.
In the Brazil national team, Vinícius hasn’t yet fully realized his potential. At the 2024 Copa América, he played three matches, scoring two goals. However, in the final group stage game, he let his team down by picking up a yellow card, which ruled him out of the quarterfinal, where Brazil was eliminated by Uruguay. At only 24 years old, Vinícius has plenty of opportunities ahead to make a greater impact for his national team.
1. Lautaro Martínez (Argentina, Inter Milan)
According to Dailysports, Lautaro Martínez is the best player in North America. Last season, he played 44 matches for Inter, scoring 27 goals and providing seven assists. Lautaro was named the best striker in Serie A and led his team to the league title. At the 2024 Copa América, he established himself as the leader of the Argentine squad, stepping into Lionel Messi’s shoes in terms of importance to the team.
During the tournament, Lautaro played six matches, scoring five goals, including the golden goal in the Copa América final that secured yet another trophy for Argentina. This season, he has played 26 matches for Inter, scoring nine goals and providing five assists. While Inter had a slow start to the season, Simone Inzaghi’s side is gradually finding its form and is expected to be among the favorites for both the Serie A title and the UEFA Champions League. Lautaro continues to display exceptional and consistent performances for both his club and the Argentine national team.
Luis Torres
Dailysports's expert
