The debate over who is the best player in CONCACAF is as lively as ever, and for good reason. With less than 400 days until the 2026 World Cup, attention is fully focused on the region, especially with the United States, Canada, and Mexico as hosts. The recent CONCACAF Nations League provided another platform for the big stars to shine, and it’s safe to say that Mexico’s triumph has stirred the waters. Now, all eyes are on the Gold Cup, a tournament that will again showcase the best the region has to offer.
Determining who is the best is no easy task. CONCACAF has never had so much depth in terms of talent. For years, the United States and Mexico dominated, but that has changed. The rise of teams like Canada, Panama, and Jamaica has made this debate even more interesting, thanks to their own outstanding players.
Panama, the most unexpected team, defeated the United States and secured their place in the Nations League final against Mexico, although a late penalty thwarted their quest for a title. For their part, Canada left the United States without a chance of redemption by winning the third-place match, snatching the podium from the three-time champions. All four teams will be among the favorites in this summer’s Gold Cup, as they all have some of the best soccer players in the region.
When evaluating the best, several factors come into play, but without a doubt, the main one is form, both at club and international level. The truly great players shine regardless of the jersey they wear, and that’s what sets them apart.
CONCACAF’s Top 7 players
Here’s a look at the top 7 players in CONCACAF right now:
7. Alphonso Davies (Canada): Davies will soon be off this list, but deserves to be mentioned at this time. A torn ACL is a setback, but he’ll be back before the World Cup. At his best, Davies could be the best player in the region.6. Santiago Giménez (Mexico): His attacking partner did the heavy lifting during the Nations League, but El Tri fans have plenty of reason to remain excited about the young AC Milan star. He’s off to a good start in Milan, and they expect more from him in the future.5. Tyler Adams (United States): A healthy Adams is crucial for both Bournemouth and the USMNT. He’s a key player in the USMNT’s backbone and continues to be the team’s best leader. He was also named Player of the Month at Bournemouth in February.4. Antonee Robinson (United States): The assist numbers have dipped in recent months, but there’s no doubt that the American fullback has been elite in the Premier League this season. He continues to perform at a very high level for Fulham.
3. Raul Jiménez (Mexico): When Mexico prepared to lift the CONCACAF Nations League trophy, there was no doubt who would take home the other awards that night at SoFi Stadium. The Mexico star striker was the big winner, taking home both the Golden Boot and the Best Player award.2. Jonathan David (Canada): The Canadian star has been on the verge of becoming a superstar for some time, and everything points to him reaching that level by the time the 2026 World Cup begins. His goal against the USMNT in the Nations League was a true work of art.1. Christian Pulisic (United States): Although he doesn’t seem as secure in his position as he did at the start of the season, especially after the Nations League, Pulisic continues to maintain his lead. David and Jiménez may be hot on his heels, but the American continues to be the best in the region.
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Pulisic has faced difficult moments recently, but he has been the most outstanding player for Milan throughout the campaign. The United States will need him at his best in the coming months.
