Best Football Player in Asia 2018: A Look Back at the Year’s Top Talent

The year 2018 saw a surge of exceptional football talent emerge from Asia, captivating fans worldwide with their dazzling skills and fierce competition. While pinpointing a single “best” player is subjective and open to debate, this article revisits some of the standout performers who lit up the Asian football scene in 2018.

Standout Performers of 2018

Several names dominated conversations about the best Asian footballer in 2018, each leaving their mark on prestigious tournaments and leagues.

• Son Heung-min (South Korea): Already a global star, Son further solidified his place as one of Asia’s greatest with his performances for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League and the South Korean national team, particularly during their impressive Asian Games gold medal run.

• Alireza Jahanbakhsh (Iran): The Iranian winger was unstoppable in the 2017-2018 Eredivisie season, finishing as the top scorer with AZ Alkmaar and subsequently earning a move to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. His performances fueled Iran’s ambitions during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

• Makoto Hasebe (Japan): The veteran Japanese midfielder demonstrated his timeless class, leading by example as captain of both Eintracht Frankfurt and the Japanese national team. His contributions were pivotal in Frankfurt’s surprising DFB-Pokal victory and Japan’s captivating performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The Criteria for “Best”

Determining the “best” footballer is inherently subjective, influenced by factors like individual brilliance, team achievements, and overall impact on the game.

• Individual Awards: While not the sole indicator, awards like the Asian Footballer of the Year offer insights into players recognized for their exceptional talent and contribution to the sport.

• Team Success: Players who spearheaded their teams to significant victories, league titles, or deep runs in tournaments often garner recognition for their leadership and ability to elevate their teammates.

• Statistical Dominance: Goal-scoring records, assists, clean sheets, and other key metrics offer quantifiable measures of a player’s impact, though they don’t always capture the complete picture of their overall contribution.

The Legacy of 2018

The year 2018 showcased the rising strength and undeniable talent within Asian football. These players, along with many other rising stars, continue to inspire a new generation of footballers across the continent and captivate audiences globally with their skill, passion, and dedication.