CONCACAF Player Power Rankings: Balogun, David Shine in November

CONCACAF Player Power Rankings Take Shape Amid November Absences

CONCACAF player power rankings have undergone a dramatic reshuffle heading into the November international break, with Folarin Balogun of the USMNT and Canada’s Jonathan David leading the charge. With several big names missing from the squads of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the spotlight falls on emerging talent and revitalized veterans who are seizing their opportunities as 2025 comes to a close.

World Cup Stakes High for CONCACAF’s Co-Hosts and Challengers

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup expands to 48 teams, the CONCACAF region finds itself with three direct qualifying spots and two intercontinental playoff places still open. While the U.S., Mexico, and Canada have already booked their places as co-hosts, the race is on for Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Honduras—favorites for the remaining berths—to secure their tickets. Yet, the narrative is far more compelling: Haiti, a nation absent from the World Cup since 1974, remains in contention, thanks largely to the heroics of Duckens Nazon.

Duckens Nazon Keeps Haiti’s World Cup Hopes Alive

Nazon’s six-goal tally in regional qualifying, highlighted by a sensational hat trick against Costa Rica, has reignited hope for Les Grenadiers. Haiti currently sits third in Group C, trailing Costa Rica and Honduras, but competitive fixtures against Costa Rica (played in Curaçao for safety reasons) and Nicaragua could potentially tip the scales. Nazon’s leadership and goal-scoring prowess have transformed Haiti from longshots to genuine contenders—a storyline that epitomizes the unpredictable nature of CONCACAF football.

Canada’s Jonathan David and Tajon Buchanan Lead the Charge

Jonathan David, with 37 goals in 71 national team appearances, continues to assert himself as arguably the best striker in the region. Although his club form with Juventus has yet to reach the heights of his time with Lille, David remains Canada’s most lethal forward and key to their ambitions next summer. Adding further excitement, Promise David—a physically dominant presence at 6’5″—is poised to complement Jonathan’s speed and movement, potentially forming a formidable strike partnership.

Tajon Buchanan’s resurgence after a career-threatening injury has caught the attention of fans and pundits alike. Now thriving at Villarreal, Buchanan’s versatility makes him invaluable to Jesse Marsch’s Canadian squad. His recent hat trick and strong Gold Cup performances showcase a player ready to reclaim his spot as one of Canada’s brightest stars, especially with upcoming matches against Ecuador and Venezuela.

USMNT’s Folarin Balogun and Sergino Dest Step Up

Folarin Balogun, thrust into leadership with Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and Chris Richards all unavailable, is now the focal point of the USMNT attack. His performances since September have demonstrated why he’s the team’s top striker, and despite an odd red card with Monaco, Balogun’s form remains crucial as the U.S. faces key fixtures in November.

Sergino Dest, returning after missing the October window, is the region’s premier attacking fullback when fit. Dest’s elite dribbling—boasting a 55.5 percent success rate in Europe with PSV—and tactical awareness make him a vital asset as the USMNT seeks to solidify its squad ahead of next year’s tournament.

Mexico’s Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez Remain Key Figures

Edson Alvarez, despite a perceived decline at 28, retains his status as one of CONCACAF’s top defensive midfielders. His ability to disrupt opposition play and contribute offensively—shown in Mexico’s Gold Cup victory—will be under scrutiny as Javier Aguirre considers younger alternatives.

Veteran forward Raul Jimenez, battling age and form issues at Fulham, continues to deliver for El Tri. With eight goals in 12 international appearances this year, Jimenez remains Mexico’s most reliable attacking threat. Chasing Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez’s all-time scoring record, Jimenez’s experience could prove invaluable as Mexico prepares for the World Cup on home soil.

CONCACAF’s Evolving Player Rankings Set the Stage for 2026

As the final international window of the year closes, managers Mauricio Pochettino (U.S.), Jesse Marsch (Canada), and Javier Aguirre (Mexico) face tough decisions in assembling their top squads. With limited preparation time before the World Cup, November’s player power rankings offer critical insights into which stars are ready to lead their national teams into the next era of CONCACAF football.

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Opinion: Fresh Faces Bring Optimism to CONCACAF’s Power Rankings

The reshuffled CONCACAF player rankings highlight a dynamic mix of experience and emerging talent. Balogun and David’s rise signals a new era for North American football, while stories like Nazon’s provide hope for smaller nations. As managers finalize their squads, fans should feel optimistic—these rankings suggest the region is more competitive and entertaining than ever.