Top 10 Muslim Footballers in 2026: Leading Players and Their Achievements

The current year has seen some remarkable performances from Muslim football players worldwide. Lamine Yamal leads the pack after an outstanding season with Barcelona, contributing to their La Liga victory and a deep run into the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. Following closely are PSG's Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi, who played crucial roles in their club's Champions League success. Sadio Mané is placed fourth, propelled by his stellar domestic form and Senegal's triumph at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Karim Benzema continues to impress at Al-Hilal. Other notable names include N'Golo Kanté (Fenerbahçe), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Granit Xhaka (Sunderland), and Riyad Mahrez (Al-Ahli).

Criteria for Ranking

The rankings are based on several factors: individual statistics, club and international trophies, and overall performance during the season. The evaluation also considered players' dedication to their faith and their influence as Muslim athletes globally.

Top 10 Muslim Footballers List

• Rank: 10 Player: Ibrahima Konate Club: Liverpool Position: Centre-Back Appearances: 38
• Rank: 9 Player: Granit Xhaka Club: Sunderland Position: Midfielder Appearances: 27
• Rank: 8 Player: N'Golo Kanté Club: Fenerbahçe Position: Midfielder Appearances: 34
• Rank: 7 Player: Karim Benzema Club: Al Hilal Position: Striker Appearances: 25
• Rank: 6 Player: Riyad Mahrez Club: Al Ahli Position: Right-Winger Appearances: 32
• Rank: 5 Player: Mohamed Salah Club: Liverpool Position: Right-Winger Appearances: 31
• Rank: 4 Player: Sadio Mane Club: Al Nassr Position: Left-Winger Appearances: 26
• Rank: 3 Player: Achraf Hakimi Club: PSG Position: Right-Back Appearances: 22
• Rank: 2 Player: Ousmane Dembélé Club: PSG Position: Striker/Right-Winger Appearances: 26
• Rank: 1 Player: Lamine Yamal Club: FC Barcelona Position: Right-Winger Appearances: 36

Profiles of the Top Muslim Footballers

Known as "Ibou," Konate was a key part of Liverpool's Premier League-winning defense last season. His pace, strength, and tackling skills have earned him a spot among the top defenders in England, although recent dips in form and contract issues have affected his current season. He remains a disciplined Muslim and philanthropist, supporting various charities.

• Appearances: 46
• World Cup appearances: 6
• Position: Centre-Back
• Aerial Duels Won (per 90): 2.13
• Goals + Assists: 2 + 0
• Tackles + Interceptions (per 90): 4.20

Xhaka combines playmaking with defensive solidity. His leadership as Sunderland captain and his deep-lying midfield role have been vital to the club's performances. Although not a practising Muslim himself, he comes from a Muslim family background.

• Appearances: 37
• World Cup appearances: 15
• Position: Central Midfielder
• Goals + Assists: 8 + 5
• Progressive Passes in Final 3rd (per 90): 5.61
• Progressive Carries (per 90): 1.00

Kanté's tireless work rate and calmness under pressure have made him one of the best midfielders in the world. Now at Fenerbahce, he remains a symbol of humility and dedication, valued for his defensive and ball-carrying abilities.

• Appearances: 39
• World Cup appearances: 7
• Position: Defensive Midfielder
• Goals + Assists: 2 + 2
• Progressive Passes (per 90): 6.59
• Progressive Carries (per 90): 1.08

Benzema's legacy at Real Madrid is unmatched, boasting numerous trophies and individual awards like the Ballon d’Or in 2022. Currently shining in Saudi Arabia, his scoring record remains impressive as he embraces his Muslim faith more openly.

• Appearances: 21
• World Cup appearances: 5
• Position: Centre Forward
• Expected Goals (xG): 18.15
• Goals: 24
• Assists: 3

Mahrez stands out with his creativity and finishing, known for clutch moments in both Leicester City and Manchester City. Now at Al-Ahli, he continues to inspire with his skill and charitable work.

• Appearances: 42
• World Cup appearances: 3
• Position: Right Winger
• Goals + Assists: 11 + 11
• Shots on Target (per 90): 0.88
• Chance Creation (per 90): 1.98

The Egyptian King, Salah, is famous for his dribbling and finishing. Despite a recent drop in form, his influence in Liverpool’s successes over recent years remains undeniable, especially his resilience during Ramadan fasting periods.

• Appearances: 41
• World Cup appearances: 5
• Position: Right Winger
• Goals + Assists: 16 + 12
• Shots on Target (per 90): 1.18
• Chance Creation (per 90): 2.94

Mane combines pace and precision, having scored consistently for Liverpool before moving to Bayern Munich and then Al Nassr. His off-pitch charity work and contributions to his hometown highlight his commitment beyond football.

• Appearances: 38
• World Cup appearances: 6
• Position: Left Winger
• Goals + Assists: 16 + 13
• Shots on Target (per 90): 1.24
• Chance Creation (per 90): 2.61

Hakimi dazzles with speed, intelligence, and attacking prowess from the right-back position. Named Arab Sportsman of the Year 2022, he is also noted for his religious devotion and has had a stadium named after him in Morocco.

• Appearances: 43
• World Cup appearances: 13
• Position: Right Back
• Aerial Duels Won (per 90): 0.35
• Goals + Assists: 6 + 13
• Tackles + Interceptions (per 90): 1.14

Dembélé’s breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona paved the way for his recent resurgence at PSG, including winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024-25. His versatility and attitude make him one of the standout Muslim footballers.

• Appearances: 39
• World Cup appearances: 14
• Position: Centre Forward
• Expected Goals (xG): 15.43
• Goals: 24
• Assists: 13

The youngest star on the list, Yamal has already made a massive impact with Barcelona, winning multiple Kopa Trophies and leading the club to major domestic success. His faith is evident through his rituals and family statements. With 25 goals and 17 assists this season, he is a rising force among Muslim footballers worldwide.

• Appearances: 43
• World Cup appearances: 3
• Position: Right Winger
• Goals + Assists: 25 + 17
• Shots on Target (per 90): 1.27
• Chance Creation (per 90): 2.81