10 Asian Footballers Dominating Football

Asian football is no longer sitting quietly on the sidelines. From South Korea to Iran, Japan to Uzbekistan, players from the continent are stepping into the spotlight in Europe, America, and the Middle East. 

They’re scoring goals, breaking records, and showing the world that Asia is a true force in the game. Here are some of the biggest names making waves right now.

Son Heung-min – South Korea

Often called the face of Asian football, Son Heung-min is a global star. After years of shining at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, he made the switch to Los Angeles FC in 2025. 

He remains the only Asian player to ever win the Premier League Golden Boot, proving his place among the world’s elite forwards.

Lee Kang-in – South Korea

A creative midfielder, Lee Kang-in plays for Paris Saint-Germain. Once a child prodigy on Korean TV, he grew into a top dribbler in Europe. With awards like the FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Ball already in his cabinet, the 24-year-old is a rising leader for both PSG and South Korea.

Mehdi Taremi – Iran

Taremi is a striker known for his sharp finishing. After stints with Inter Milan, he now plays for Olympiacos in Greece. Twice named Iran’s Player of the Year, he has represented his country at two World Cups and remains one of Asia’s most experienced forwards.

Salem Al-Dawsari – Saudi Arabia

Salem Al-Dawsari is a household name in Saudi football. A loyal Al Hilal star for most of his career, he was crowned Asian Footballer of the Year in 2022. Known for his attacking flair, he continues to shine in both the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League.

Kim Min-jae – South Korea

Nicknamed “The Monster,” Kim Min-jae is one of the best defenders in Europe. Playing for Bayern Munich, he brings strength and leadership to the backline. His journey from the K League to the Bundesliga has made him a role model for many young Asian players.

Kaoru Mitoma – Japan

Brighton fans know how special Kaoru Mitoma is. A tricky winger with blistering pace, he has become one of the Premier League’s most exciting players. Mitoma’s skill and direct style make him a constant threat on the pitch for both club and country.

Kyōgo Furuhashi – Japan

Kyōgo made his name at Celtic, scoring goals for fun and even winning the Scottish Premiership Golden Boot in 2023. In 2025, he joined Birmingham City in England. Known for his sharp movement and finishing, he’s one of Japan’s top strikers abroad.

Hwang Hee-chan – South Korea

Nicknamed “The Bull,” Hwang Hee-chan plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. A powerful forward, he is loved by Wolves fans for his work rate and ability to score important goals. He has also been a regular face for South Korea on the international stage.

Sardar Azmoun – Iran

Sardar Azmoun has played across Europe, from Russia to Germany and Italy. Now with Shabab Al Ahli in the UAE, he continues to lead Iran’s attack. He remains one of the youngest Iranians ever to score in the UEFA Champions League, a record that underlines his talent.

Abdukodir Khusanov – Uzbekistan

The youngest on this list, Khusanov is a rising star at Manchester City. At just 21, he became the first player from Uzbekistan to play in the Premier League. He also helped his national team qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, making him one of Asia’s brightest prospects.