25. Andres Iniesta
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Perhaps the greatest midfielder to ever play for Barcelona, if not the world. Andres Iniesta was all about press resistance and high football IQ, exemplified in pivotal matches like the first Clasico of the 15/16 season against Real Madrid and the Copa del Rey final versus Sevilla. In the Clasico, Iniesta’s masterful control of the game was evident as he orchestrated Barcelona’s 4-0 victory, filling the leadership void left by Xavi.
His ability to create space and provide crucial assists, such as Neymar’s goal, demonstrated his skill. Similarly, in the Copa del Rey final, despite being a man down, Iniesta almost single-handedly guided Barcelona to a 2-0 triumph. Outside of his otherworldly talent, his humility and professionalism have earned him the admiration and respect of fans worldwide.
24. Bobby Charlton
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Sir Bobby Charlton’s legacy in football is undeniable, earning him a spot on any list of the top 25 footballers of all-time. Being a Manchester United legend itself is no small feat considering how illustrious the club is. Charlton’s crowning achievement came in 1966 when he played a pivotal role in England’s World Cup victory, earning him the Ballon d’Or award.
His influence extended beyond the pitch, as he played a significant role in elevating English football to prominence on the European stage. Charlton’s contributions not only shaped Manchester United into a global powerhouse but also propelled the English national team to formidable heights, cementing his status as a true football legend.
23. Franco Baresi
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Throughout his 20-year career, Franco Baresi remained a loyal stalwart of the esteemed Italian powerhouse A.C. Milan, where he achieved remarkable success. With six Serie A titles, two European Super Cup trophies, and three Champions League titles under his belt, Baresi’s professional record speaks volumes. Additionally, he played an integral role in Italy’s triumph at the 1982 World Cup. Despite standing at just 5-foot-9, Baresi’s impact transcended his physical stature.
Renowned for his astute reading of the game, he possessed an unparalleled ability to anticipate plays and intercept passes. His tenacity in challenges and impeccable defensive positioning made him a formidable force in the heart of Milan’s defense. Notably, Baresi formed a formidable partnership with Paolo Maldini, contributing significantly to the success of both club and country. In essence, Baresi’s skill set and influence on the game foreshadowed that of Fabio Cannavaro.
22. Lev Yashin
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Although most of us probably weren’t even alive to watch prime Lev Yashin, the wide consensus is he revolutionized the goalkeeping position within the sport. He can be described as a vocal and assertive figure between the posts. He commanded and shouted orders at his players, and came off his line to stop crosses and heavy passes from oncoming attackers (things all modern goalkeepers are required to excel at). This was done at a time when goalkeepers preferred to passively sit in their post for 90 minutes. His impact on the game is undeniable and therefore is one of the greatest players (and goalkeepers) of all-time.
21. Ronaldinho
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They just don’t make players like him anymore. Although his career trajectory is often critiqued for his indulgence in partying and occasional dips in physical condition, his brilliance on the football field was nothing short of magical. He loved slick tricks, making a mockery of his opponent, and generally audacious moves like intentionally using his back to redirect long balls to teammates. On the pitch, he exuded the spirit of futsal, effortlessly maneuvering past defenders in one-on-one situations with finesse and flair that remains unmatched.
20. Gianluigi Buffon
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What a career. He embodies every desirable trait one could seek in a goalkeeper. Buffon’s exceptional positional sense, coupled with his long and flexible frame, has established him as a premier shot-stopper for decades. He instills a sense of calm and confidence in his teammates, a trait that the best modern goalkeepers have. His talent is backed up by an illustrious career with numerous accolades, including Italy’s triumph in the 2006 World Cup, 10 Serie A titles with Juventus, and an astounding 12 Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year Awards.
19. Zico
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The straw that stirred the potent caipirinha. Zico emerged in Brazilian football following the era of icons like Pelé and Garrincha. His dynamic style of play invited comparisons to the legends preceding him, thanks to his mesmerizing creativity as an attacking midfielder. Zico’s knack for orchestrating goal-scoring opportunities was incredible, showcasing vision on the ball. However, his true prowess lay in his set pieces, with reports indicating he netted over 100 direct free kicks during his 20+ year career. Perhaps it’s time to reconsider the phrase “Bending it Like Beckham” to honor Zico’s remarkable contributions to the art of free-kick taking.
18. Kaka
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Kaka is a football legend, pure and simple. He distinguished himself from many of his Brazilian peers with a simplicity in his approach. Every touch he made carried a purpose, driving his team forward with intent and vision. He was also widely known for his shots from afar and precise passing. His exceptional acceleration and speed allowed him to effortlessly glide past opponents, providing endless nightmares for defenders. Kaka’s illustrious career includes triumphs such as the UEFA Champions League, Serie A titles, and a FIFA World Cup victory with Brazil. Good luck imagining an all-time starting lineup without considering him.
17. Gerd Muller
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“Right place, right time.” Despite his household name status, we still think Gerd Muller doesn’t quite get the respect he deserves. When you think of a poacher, there are few better that exemplified that position than Gerd Muller. A master of positioning, he possessed an uncanny knack for finding space and exploiting it ruthlessly. His remarkable goal-scoring prowess transcended domestic leagues, European competitions, and even the World Cup stage.
16. Eusebio
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Before Cristiano Ronaldo graced the footballing world with his presence, Portugal’s footballing icon was undoubtedly Eusebio. Despite his modest height of 5-foot-9, Eusebio played with a towering presence and driven hunger for goals. His tenure with Benfica showcased his scoring ability, amassing an impressive tally of 317 goals in just 301 matches.
Eusebio’s impact extended beyond individual accolades, propelling Benfica to 11 league titles and cementing their status among Europe’s elite clubs that is still upheld today. Despite his stature, he outpaced and outmaneuvered defenders with lightning speed, consistently finding the back of the net with remarkable precision. Eusebio’s skillset transcends generations, making him a timeless talent reminiscent of modern stars like Kylian Mbappe.
15. Garrincha
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Garrincha is a trailblazer for the iconic Brazilian football style characterized by fluidity and exuberance, a culture deeply rooted in joy and creativity on the field. Known for his unusual dribbling skills, he redefined the art of ball control. Garrincha’s audacious style allowed him to navigate through congested defenses effortlessly, exploiting the smallest gaps that appeared on the field. His impact extended to the global stage, where he played a pivotal role in Brazil’s triumph at the 1962 World Cup, cementing his legacy as a true maestro of the beautiful game.
14. Michel Platini
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Michel Platini epitomized the No. 10 role, serving as an orchestrator on the field. With surgical precision, he threaded through passes and weighted deliveries to teammates in dangerous areas, seamlessly transitioning between creator and goal scorer as an attacking midfielder. His set-piece prowess further underscored his versatility and impact.
Dominating both domestically with Nancy and Saint-Etienne and on the international stage with Juventus in Serie A during the ’80s, Platini’s brilliance transcended his lack of elite athleticism, showcasing a strategic approach akin to a chess grandmaster, always anticipating his next move with incredible foresight.
13. Ferenc Puskas
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Perhaps the most legendary Hungarian footballer of all time. His illustrious career spanning from the early 1940s to the mid-60s is a rarity in the world of professional football, where longevity of over two decades is seldom seen. Puskas wasn’t just another player clocking in years — he maintained an elite status for an impressively extended period, both at the club and international level.
Despite his small stature, Puskas wielded a combination of exceptional balance and lightning-quick speed to wreak havoc on opposing defenses. Versatile in his positioning, he proved deadly when initiating attacks from deep positions and driving towards the goal. He boasted an astounding 84 goals in 85 appearances for Hungary’s national team and a staggering 514 goals in 530 matches across stints with Budapest Honved and Real Madrid. Did you read those goal-scoring numbers correctly? Read them again and let that sink in. Wow.
12. Marco van Basten
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Despite his career-limiting injury woes that prompt the question “What if?” as it pertains to his status, van Basten still stands out as an enigmatic figure. Known as a prolific goal-scorer during his impressive stints with Ajax, AC Milan, and the Dutch national team, he possesses a formidable physique coupled with exceptional aerial prowess. His versatility in scoring manifested in various forms, whether through sheer athleticism, technical finesse, long-range strikes, predatory instincts inside the box, or commanding headers. Despite his truncated career, the three-time Ballon d’Or recipient amassed an impressive tally of 282 goals in a mere 379 appearances for club and country.
11. George Best
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“When I die and they lay me to rest, I’m gonna go [for a drink] with Georgie Best!” Hailed as Manchester United’s greatest-ever player, Best dazzled with his skills at both club and country. Quick, smart, and elusive, he could create scoring chances effortlessly. Making his debut for Manchester United at 17, Best displayed his undeniable talent early on. Despite personal challenges, George Best remains a footballing legend today.
10. Paolo Maldini
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Italian footballers are famous for their discipline and resilience, and Paolo Maldini stands out as the epitome of this tradition. For over a decade, he anchored Italy’s defense with versatility, excelling at both left and right-back positions, and transitioning when needed. Maldini not only contributed offensively with his dribbling skills and precise crosses but also demonstrated exceptional defensive prowess, rarely being caught out of position. With A.C. Milan, he amassed an impressive 26 trophies and represented Italy in four World Cup tournaments.
9. Alfredo di Stefano
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Before the era of Pele, Maradona, and Messi, there was Di Stefano. Rising from humble beginnings in the Argentine countryside, Di Stefano became one of the world’s most prolific scorers, leaving his mark on the football world. His tenure with clubs in Argentina and Colombia saw him contribute to six league titles before joining Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid. Over 11 seasons with Real Madrid, Di Stefano secured eight La Liga titles and scored over 300 goals in fewer than 400 matches, boasting an extraordinary goal-per-game average. He excelled in multiple positions, showcasing his prowess as a goal-scorer, central defender, and central midfielder.
8. Franz Beckenbauer
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Perhaps known as the most “complete” center-back, he spent nearly 15 years at Bayern Munich and contributed to the club’s three consecutive European Cup victories. Additionally, as captain of the West German national team, Beckenbauer led his side to a World Cup triumph. Notably, he pioneered the role of the ball-playing central defender, a transition facilitated by his background as a central midfielder. This unique blend of skills, coupled with his defensive prowess and tactical acumen, revolutionized the game and influenced tactics for years to come.
7. Ronaldo
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A must-have on any top-10 list of football legends. Well-known for his lethal scoring ability and speed, he was capable of expertly occupying space in the final third or showcasing his ambidextrous prowess with both feet. His roots in futsal in Rio de Janeiro endowed him with exceptional dribbling skills, captivating audiences worldwide with every touch of the ball. Ronaldo embodies the essence of Brazilian football and is one of the greatest of all-time.
6. Johan Cruyff
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Just an incredible artist with his feet. He relied not on raw athleticism but on skill, inventiveness, confidence, and tactical brilliance both as a player and a manager. His style prioritized ball possession as a defensive strategy and wearing down opponents with precise passing and strategic movement. A legend at Ajax and Barcelona, Cruyff’s influence extends beyond his playing days, with many clubs still implementing his pressing tactics and midfield control to this day.
5. Zinedine Zidane
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A complete midfielder who could do it all. When it comes to Zidane, he excelled at almost everything. Passing, dribbling, tackling – what couldn’t he do? Renowned for his sophistication, he remains unrivaled as the most complete midfielder in football history, blending finesse with aggression and intuitive play. His ability as a player seemingly transitioned into management with ease, as he enjoyed an impressive trophy haul with Real Madrid as manager.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo
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Elite footballers transcend mere athleticism, requiring both technical finesse and tactical prowess to excel. Among these rare talents stands Cristiano Ronaldo, a player who epitomizes the pinnacle of mental and physical capabilities. While his later career has seen him transition into a lethal poacher, primetime CR7 showcased unparalleled threat as a dynamic winger. Known for his remarkable speed and unmatched aerial ability, Ronaldo’s complete skill set sets him apart as a true marvel on the field. His influence extends beyond his own play, shaping the style of emerging talents like Kylian Mbappe.
3. Diego Maradona
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The prodigal son of Argentinian football. Emerging from humble beginnings in the slums, he defied all odds to become a footballing legend. His crowning achievement came in the 1986 World Cup, where he led Argentina to victory with a performance that captivated the world. Maradona’s remarkable skill and tenacity on the field, coupled with his unyielding determination, made him a force to be reckoned with. His low center of gravity and unparalleled touch rendered him virtually unstoppable, striking fear into opponents with every move he made. In addition to his talent, fans will never forget his memorable antics, such as the famous “hand of god” goal or his aggression on the pitch.
2. Pele
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He single-handedly put Brazil on the footballing map. In an era of structured team play, Pele stood out as a beacon of individual brilliance, wowing fans worldwide with his extraordinary skills and creativity. While he was a team player at heart, Pele also took it upon himself to showcase the artistry of the game, delighting fans worldwide with his unmatched talent on the ball. His legacy as a footballing icon will endure for generations to come, shaping the sport’s landscape in ways that continue to resonate.
1. Lionel Messi
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While some may argue for Pele as the greatest footballer of all-time, Messi’s supremacy in the modern game is undeniable. In an era marked by unprecedented physical conditioning and tactical expertise, Messi has thrived under intense scrutiny, consistently outperforming his rivals. With a left boot seemingly kissed by god himself, his mastery of the sport goes beyond mere statistics. He encompasses speed (although understandably declined in his later years), masterful ball control, footballing intelligence, and free kicks that will be replayed by fans until the end of time. Messi is the greatest player in history.
