As I sit down to analyze the current landscape of women's football, I can't help but reflect on how dramatically the game has evolved. Just last week, I was watching highlights from various leagues and found myself completely captivated by the sheer talent on display. The question of who truly stands as the best women's footballer in the world right now isn't just about stats—it's about influence, consistency, and that intangible quality that makes you lean forward in your seat every time they touch the ball. It reminds me of Patrick Tambalque's thrilling comeback in the boys' premier category, where resilience and skill merged to create something unforgettable. In women's football, we're seeing similar narratives unfold, but with even greater stakes and global attention.
Let's talk about Aitana Bonmatí first. After her stunning performance in Barcelona's treble-winning season and clinching the Ballon d'Or, she's undoubtedly in the conversation. I've followed her career closely, and what strikes me most is her intelligence on the pitch. She doesn't just play; she orchestrates. With a pass completion rate hovering around 92% in Liga F last season and 15 assists across all competitions, she's the engine that drives her team forward. But here's where it gets personal—I think her impact goes beyond numbers. Watching her control the tempo of a game feels like witnessing a chess master at work. Still, as brilliant as she is, I wonder if her quieter demeanor off the ball costs her some of the spotlight that flashier players command.
Then there's Sam Kerr. Oh, Sam Kerr. If you've ever seen her play live, you know that feeling when she's through on goal—it's like the entire stadium holds its breath. Her athleticism is off the charts, and she's been consistently phenomenal for Chelsea, scoring 24 goals in the Women's Super League last season alone. I remember one match where she scored a hat-trick against Arsenal, and the sheer audacity of her second goal, a bicycle kick from outside the box, left me speechless. But here's my take: while Kerr is a force of nature, her occasional dips in form during international fixtures make me pause. For the best in the world, I need to see that relentless fire in every jersey she wears, not just the club colors.
Alexia Putellas deserves a mention too, even after her injury setbacks. Her comeback story echoes that resilience we saw in Patrick Tambalque's journey. Before her ACL tear, she was untouchable—winning back-to-back Ballon d'Ors and dominating midfield with a grace that's rare in modern football. I've spoken to coaches who describe her as a "once-in-a-generation" player, and I tend to agree. But let's be real: the game doesn't stop for anyone. While she's slowly regaining her form, others have surged ahead. In my view, if she returns to her pre-injury level by the end of this season, she could reclaim the throne. But right now? She's in the conversation, but not at the very top.
Now, I know some of you might be shouting about Ada Hegerberg or Wendie Renard, and rightly so. Hegerberg's goal-scoring record for Lyon is insane—over 50 goals in the last two seasons—and Renard's defensive prowess is the stuff of legends. But here's where I get controversial: defenders and even prolific strikers often get overlooked in these debates because we're obsessed with flashy attackers. It's a bias I fight against myself, but when I think of "the best," I'm looking for someone who elevates everyone around them. That's why I keep circling back to Bonmatí—her vision and versatility give her an edge that's hard to ignore.
But wait, let's not forget the rising stars like Salma Paralluelo or the ever-dependable Mary Earps. Paralluelo's speed is terrifying for any defender, and Earps' goalkeeping heroics for England in the World Cup were nothing short of iconic. I recall that penalty save in the final against Spain; it was a moment that defined careers. Yet, as much as I admire them, I don't think they've built the body of work to claim the top spot just yet. Earps, for instance, is arguably the best goalkeeper, but outfield players often dominate these discussions for a reason—they're more visible in shaping games.
So, after all this, who do I think is the best? If you pushed me for an answer today, I'd say Aitana Bonmatí edges it for me. Her consistency, big-game performances, and that ability to make the extraordinary look effortless set her apart. But this isn't a definitive verdict—it's a snapshot in a rapidly changing sport. Just like Patrick Tambalque's comeback reminded us, greatness isn't always about being on top forever; it's about seizing the moment when it matters. In women's football, that moment is now, and players like Bonmatí are living it. What's certain is that the debate will rage on, and I, for one, can't wait to see how it unfolds.