A total of 216 Bundesliga players were surveyed to choose the best forward in world football at the moment — and the outcome is quite intriguing.

A group of Bundesliga players took part in an anonymous survey covering various football-related topics, including their pick for the best attacking player in Europe this season.

The yearly survey, conducted by the German publication kicker, gathered responses from 216 players across all 18 Bundesliga clubs. It offered insights into player opinions on some of the game’s biggest talking points.

Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha was voted the biggest underperformer among Bundesliga outfield players, while Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen was seen as the most outstanding, earning 28.2% of the vote.

On the European stage, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal was named the top attacking talent this season. The 16-year-old recorded 18 goals and 25 assists in all competitions and received a commanding 53.7% of the vote. He finished well ahead of Ousmane Dembele (6.9%) and Kylian Mbappe (6%). Fellow Barca forward Raphinha placed fourth with 4.6%.

Premier League stars were also acknowledged. Mohamed Salah, who was recently named the league’s player of the season, ranked fifth with 3.7%, just ahead of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who received 2.8%.

In addition to attackers, Bundesliga players also weighed in on the world’s best defenders and goalkeepers. Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk came out on top among defenders, while PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma led the goalkeeper category—both receiving 27.3% of the votes.

As for coaching, Hansi Flick was selected as Europe’s best manager this season for his accomplishments at Barcelona, earning 31.9% of the vote. He finished ahead of PSG boss Luis Enrique, who won the Champions League against Inter Milan. Others receiving recognition included Xabi Alonso, Pep Guardiola, Arne Slot, Simone Inzaghi, Carlo Ancelotti, and Mikel Arteta.

What are your thoughts on the rankings? Share your opinion in the comments.