World Best Football Players Of All Time

Top 10 Best Footballers Of All Time

10. Michel Platini

In our 10th rank of our list of Best Football Players of All Time, Michel Platini, one of the most gifted and influential midfielders in football history, born in 1955 in Jœuf, France, has left a legacy of undeniable brilliance and impact.

9. Franz Beckenbauer

Franz Beckenbauer, known as “Der Kaiser,” is one of football’s greatest defenders and a pioneering figure in the evolution of the game. Born in 1945 in Munich, Germany, Beckenbauer began his professional career with Bayern Munich, where he became synonymous with success. Renowned for his leadership, elegance on the ball, and tactical intelligence, Beckenbauer transformed the role of the sweeper, or libero, into a crucial attacking position in football.

8. Alfredo Di Stefano

Alfredo Di Stéfano is regarded as one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game, known for his incredible versatility and influence on the pitch. Born in 1926 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he began his career with River Plate, before moving to Millonarios in Colombia, where he established himself as a rising star. In 1953, Di Stéfano joined Real Madrid, where his impact would be felt for over a decade, becoming the backbone of the club’s golden era.

Known for his all-around ability, Di Stéfano could play almost every position on the field with exceptional skill. His leadership and tireless work ethic helped Real Madrid win 5 consecutive European Cups from 1956 to 1960, and he played a pivotal role in each victory. His unique ability to both create and score goals made him a revolutionary figure in football.

Internationally, Di Stéfano represented Argentina, Colombia, and Spain, but never played in a World Cup, which many consider one of football’s great “what ifs.” He retired in 1966, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire players today. His name is synonymous with Real Madrid’s success, and his influence remains unmatched.

Career Achievements:

• 5 European Cups with Real Madrid (1956–1960)
• 8 La Liga titles with Real Madrid (1954–1964)
• 2 Ballon d’Ors (1957, 1959)
• Super Ballon d’Or (1989)
• Top scorer in La Liga (5 times)
• Real Madrid’s second-highest all-time scorer at the time of his retirement

7. Zinedine Zidane

In our list of Greatest Footballers of All Time, Zinedine Zidane, often called “Zizou,” is renowned for his elegance, vision, and composure on the ball, with brilliance and influence truly unmatched.

6. Ronaldo Nazario

Ronaldo Nazário, also known as “The Phenomenon,” is celebrated for his explosive speed, skillful dribbling, and clinical finishing. Born in 1976 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he began his career at Cruzeiro before moving to PSV Eindhoven in 1994, where he showcased his prodigious talent. In 1996, he joined Barcelona and had a sensational season, scoring 47 goals in 49 games. His performances earned him his first FIFA World Player of the Year award.

5. Johan Cruyff

In our 5th rank of our list of Best Football Players of All Time, Johan Cruyff’s impact on football is immeasurable.

Johan Cruyff, one of football’s most influential figures, redefined the game with his intelligence, skill, and vision. Born in 1947 in Amsterdam, Cruyff began his professional career at Ajax in 1964. During his time there, he helped the club win 8 Eredivisie titles and 3 consecutive European Cups (1971, 1972, 1973). His innovative style of play was key to the development of “Total Football,” a tactical system that emphasized versatility and fluid movement.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is a testament to dedication, athleticism, and goal-scoring excellence. Born in 1985 in Madeira, Portugal, he began his professional career at Sporting CP before making his mark with Manchester United in 2003. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, he won 3 Premier League titles and a Champions League title in 2008, establishing himself as one of the best players in the world.

3. Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona, often hailed as one of football’s most gifted players, was a symbol of skill, passion, and charisma. Born in 1960 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Maradona began his professional career with Argentinos Juniors at 15. He quickly rose to stardom, showcasing extraordinary dribbling, vision, and creativity. After a brief stint at Boca Juniors, he moved to Barcelona in 1982, where injuries and challenges limited his success.

Maradona’s most iconic period came at Napoli (1984–1991), where he led the club to their first-ever Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990, forever cementing his legendary status in Italy. His greatest triumph, however, was leading Argentina to the 1986 FIFA World Cup title, with his legendary “Hand of God” goal and the stunning “Goal of the Century” against England defining his genius.

Despite personal struggles, Maradona’s brilliance on the pitch remains unmatched. He finished his career with Boca Juniors in 1997. His legacy endures as a player who combined flair, grit, and an unyielding love for the game.

Career Achievements:

• 1986 FIFA World Cup Winner
• 2 Serie A titles with Napoli (1987, 1990)
• UEFA Cup with Napoli (1989)
• 1 Copa del Rey with Barcelona (1983)
• Golden Ball for Best Player of the 1986 World Cup
• Argentine Primera División title with Boca Juniors (1981)
• Scored the “Goal of the Century” in 1986

2. Pele

Pelé, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, had a career marked by extraordinary talent, consistency, and success. Born in 1940 in Brazil, he began his professional journey with Santos FC at just 15. Over an illustrious 18-year spell with the club, Pelé scored over 1,000 goals and won multiple trophies, including 6 Brazilian league titles and 2 Copa Libertadores titles.

1. Lionel Messi