GOD55 Sports | Alexia Putellas Crowned European Women's Player of the Year 2025-26

What a season it has been for European women's football. The Champions League campaign was certainly a memorable one, with some thrilling ties throughout the knockout stages and an enthralling introduction to the league phase format, with stars aplenty shining on the biggest stage before Barcelona beat Lyon in the final.

Europe's Elite: Alexia Putellas Reigns Supreme in the 2025-26 Season!

The 2025-26 European women's football season delivered breathtaking drama, unforgettable moments, and standout individual performances that will be etched in history. From seasoned veterans defying expectations to prodigious talents announcing their arrival on the biggest stages, the continent's top leagues and the Champions League showcased an unparalleled depth of skill and determination. When the final whistle blew on a spectacular campaign, one player stood head and shoulders above the rest: Barcelona's departing legend, Alexia Putellas.

Key Takeaways from a Stupendous Season:

Alexia Putellas proved why she's a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, leading Barcelona to an historic quadruple in her farewell season.
Khadija Shaw dominated England, driving Manchester City to a WSL title and FA Cup triumph.
Young talents like Melchie Dumornay and Ewa Pajor became undeniable forces, showcasing their world-class potential.
The depth of talent across Europe signals an exciting future for women's football, with fierce competition for every major honor.

This ranking celebrates the players who consistently delivered, influenced games, and inspired their teams to glory across Europe's most competitive leagues.

The Unstoppable Force: Ranking Europe's Top Women Footballers

30. Clara Mateo (Paris FC)

Clara Mateo has been the heartbeat of Paris FC's impressive consistency, steering them to the Championship play-off final after a previous Coupe de France victory. Her astute playmaking, including a crucial flick that set up the winner against Paris Saint-Germain, highlights her 12 direct goal involvements this season. Mateo's leadership and on-pitch contributions are pivotal as PFC increasingly challenge Lyon's dominance in France.

29. Felicia Schroder (Häcken)

Nineteen-year-old Felicia Schroder burst onto the European scene, becoming the top scorer in the inaugural UEFA Women's Europa Cup with eight goals, including all four in Häcken's two-legged final win. Her remarkable form continued domestically, bagging 14 goals and four assists in the final 14 league games to secure the Golden Boot and a title. It's no surprise Chelsea are reportedly pursuing her with a world-record bid.

28. Selina Cerci (Hoffenheim)

Selina Cerci quietly became one of the most coveted talents in the upcoming transfer window. For Hoffenheim, she replicated her 16 Bundesliga goals from last season and significantly boosted her creative output with nine assists, tripling her previous tally. Directly involved in 25 of her team's 48 league goals, Cerci's unparalleled influence makes her a prime target for clubs like Arsenal, the European champions of a year ago.

27. Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal)

While Mariona Caldentey didn't replicate her Ballon d'Or-contending numbers from last season, her shift to a deeper midfield role for Arsenal proved her invaluable. She might not have the flashy stats, but her ability to dictate play and keep the team ticking was evident. Caldentey led the WSL in accurate passes in the final third and ranked second in key passes, showcasing her profound impact even without abundant goals and assists.

26. Merveille Kanjinga (Paris Saint-Germain)

Merveille Kanjinga enjoyed a true breakthrough season in her first full campaign with Paris Saint-Germain. The forward adapted impressively, tallying 15 goals and eight assists across all competitions. Kanjinga's dual threat as a scorer and creator was a rare bright spot for PSG during an otherwise challenging season, positioning her as a future star.

25. Tabitha Chawinga (Lyon)

Despite limited minutes (846 league minutes), Tabitha Chawinga's impact for Lyon was astonishing. Her 13 goals and five assists translated to a direct goal contribution every 47 minutes. Although fitness issues sidelined her for crucial Champions League ties, her standout performances, including a brace in the Championship play-off final, were instrumental in OL securing another domestic treble.

24. Camilla Kuver (Wolfsburg)

Camilla Kuver's season with Wolfsburg was a triumphant return to form after overcoming injury woes. Her reliability and physicality made her a standout, particularly in the Champions League. A highlight was her critical role in Wolfsburg's 1-0 first-leg victory over eventual finalists Lyon, displaying the elite talent that previously linked her to Barcelona.