Korea’s soccer powerhouses have claimed prominent spots among Asia’s finest talents. The Globe Soccer Awards highlighted the top six players from each continent as the ‘Kings of the Continents’ on March 8.
Son Heung-min Dominates No. 1 Spot
Son Heung-min secures the top position after joining LA FC in the MLS following the 2024-2025 season. He delivered a stellar debut, scoring 9 goals and providing 3 assists in 10 league matches, propelling LA FC into title contention. Across 13 MLS games post-transfer, he netted 12 goals and added 3 assists, revitalizing the league. In the MLS Cup Western Conference semifinals against Vancouver Whitecaps, Son scored twice in a one-man show but exited via penalty shootout. This season, he continues strongly with 2 assists in his first 2 league games.
Kim Min-jae Claims Second Place
Kim Min-jae ranks second, excelling as a premier European center-back since his Napoli days. He featured in 52 matches that season, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists to Napoli’s first league title in 33 years since 1989-1990. Now at Bayern Munich, he remains a top-rated defender in Europe.
Lee Kang-in Enters Top 5 at No. 4
Lee Kang-in lands fourth, earning steady praise at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) despite not being a regular starter. PSG manager Luis Enrique commended him: “Lee Kang-in is a special player unlike others. He stands out in midfield and attack, fits perfectly into our thinking, and plays well. He has a winning mentality regardless of goals. Versatile across positions, physically strong, and technically excellent—we’re happy to have him.”
Japan’s Limited Representation
Japan fields only two players: Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton) at third and Ayase Ueda (Feyenoord) at fifth. Takefusa Kubo misses out, while Uzbekistan’s Abdukodir Khusanov (Manchester City) takes sixth ahead of his Olympic debut.
Europe’s Standouts
In Europe, Kylian Mbappe leads, followed by Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, Pedri, and Jude Bellingham in the top six.
