Top 20 Football Players Of All Time

[NOTE: The term “football” in this post refers to Soccer, not American Football.] The debate surrounding the greatest footballers is ongoing, and for good reason, given the enormous number of players and the worldwide popularity of ‘the beautiful game’. It’s remarkable that FIFA boasts more member nations than the United Nations. Played across the globe, I present this list, which I anticipate will invite critique, but constructive feedback is always welcome – so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts!

20. Lillian Thuram CB, RB

Renowned as one of France’s greatest defenders, Thuram is celebrated for scoring two crucial goals in the 1998 World Cup semi-final against Croatia, leading France to a 2-1 comeback victory. France went on to win the World Cup, defeating Brazil 3-0 in the final. Throughout his club career, he showcased his talent at AS Monaco, Juventus, and FC Barcelona.

19. Roberto Carlos LWB

Roberto Carlos spent eleven remarkable years with Real Madrid, securing four league titles, three UEFA Champions League trophies, and two Intercontinental Cups. He is among the elite group of six players to have appeared in over a hundred Champions League matches. He is best remembered for his incredible 35-meter free kick against France on June 3, 1997, where he struck the ball from the centre-right channel and found the back of the net.

18. David Beckham RMF, CMF

David Beckham, a renowned English footballer, has achieved global fame both on and off the pitch. His career with Manchester United captivated fans, and his marriage to Spice Girls star Victoria Adams in July 1999 turned them into one of Britain’s most iconic couples. Beckham is celebrated for his exceptional free kicks and powerful long-range shots, with his right foot often hailed as a national treasure of England.

17. Oliver Kahn GK

Oliver Kahn stands as one of Germany’s most accomplished players, securing eight German championships, six German cups, the UEFA Cup (1996), the UEFA Champions League, and the Intercontinental Cup (both 2001). His outstanding performances earned him four consecutive UEFA Best European Goalkeeper awards, three IFFHS World’s Best Goalkeeper of the Year titles, and two German “Footballer of the Year” honors.

16. Zico OMF

Known as the White Pelé, Zico is widely regarded as one of the finest dribblers and finishers in football history, arguably the best player in the world during the early 1980s. He was also celebrated as one of the greatest free kick specialists, renowned for his ability to curve the ball with speed and precision, coupled with an incredibly powerful shot.

15. Lev Yashin GK

An exceptional goalkeeper, arguably the greatest in football history, Lev Yashin was a Soviet sports icon. He dedicated his entire playing career to Moscow Dynamo, later transitioning to a coaching role with the club. Yashin’s dominance in goal was instrumental in Dynamo securing five league titles and three cup victories. His performances were pivotal in the Soviet national team’s gold medal triumph at the 1956 Olympics, and he represented the team in three World Cups. Yashin remains the only goalkeeper to be named European Footballer of the Year and was honored as the world goalkeeper of the 20th century. Affectionately nicknamed the Black Spider due to his all-black goalkeeper attire.

14. Ronald Koeman DMF

Koeman, primarily a central defender, was also renowned for his powerful right-footed free kicks and set-piece expertise, scoring numerous crucial goals for his teams. His free-kick secured FC Barcelona’s winning goal in the 1992 European Cup final. With 193 league goals in 503 matches, Koeman outscored Daniel Passarella (182 goals in 556 matches) and holds the record for the most goals by a defender in football history.

13. Luis Figo RW

Figo, a football legend, started his professional journey in his homeland, Portugal, before gaining fame in Spain with top clubs FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. He later joined Inter Milan in 2005. Renowned for his skillful stop-and-go dribbling and assertive playing style, Figo excelled as a playmaker rather than a goal scorer. His career peaked in 2000 when he guided Portugal to the Euro 2000 semifinals and was crowned European Footballer of the Year. That same year, he made headlines with a record-breaking $56 million transfer from FC Barcelona to Real Madrid.

12. Alvaro Recoba OMF, LW

Recoba is celebrated for his exceptional dribbling, technical skills, speed, and a powerful, precise left-footed shot. A master of free kicks, he has netted some spectacular goals, including two memorable strikes on his Inter debut and numerous highlights during his stint at Venezia. While few players can match his natural talent, Recoba’s mental fortitude has often been questioned during critical moments.

11. Alfredo di Stefano FW, OMF

Known as Saeta rubia (Blond Arrow), Alfredo di Stefano was a dynamic forward celebrated for his incredible stamina and tactical adaptability. He was versatile enough to play in any position on the field and, despite his reputation as a forward, excelled defensively. He ranks as the third-highest scorer in the history of Spain’s top division, netting 228 goals in 329 matches. Di Stefano also holds the record as Real Madrid’s all-time leading league scorer, with 216 goals in 282 league appearances.

10. Raul Gonzalez FW, SS

Known as the ‘Angel of Madrid’ and simply called Raúl, he is a legendary Spanish striker who represented La Liga giants Real Madrid. A three-time UEFA Champions League winner, Raúl is the second-highest scorer in official UEFA competitions, trailing only Filippo Inzaghi with 64 goals. He assumed the captaincy of Real Madrid following Fernando Hierro’s departure in 2003, proving himself as a natural and respected leader on and off the pitch.

9. Michael Platini OMF

Platini was a key figure in the French national team’s triumph at the 1984 European Championship, earning the titles of best player and top scorer. Alongside Alain Giresse, Luis Fernández, and Jean Tigana, he formed the legendary “carré magique” (magic square), the midfield core that drove France’s success in the 1980s. Widely regarded as one of the finest passers and free-kick specialists in football history, Platini also holds the record for the most goals scored in European Championship finals.

8. Carlos Alberto Torres WB

A legendary Brazilian footballer, Carlos Alberto is celebrated as one of the greatest defenders in history. He led Brazil to victory in the 1970 World Cup and is honored as a member of the World Team of the 20th Century and the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame. His iconic goal against Italy in the 1970 World Cup final is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular goals ever scored in the tournament’s history.

7. Ronaldo FW

Ronaldo, a gifted and dynamic forward, emerged as one of the brightest stars of international football in the 1990s and Brazil’s most celebrated player since Pelé. Known as “The Phenomenon,” he showcased his talent at clubs like Cruzeiro, Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and AC Milan, earning numerous titles and records. A global icon, Ronaldo has been a key figure for the Brazilian national team since 1994, contributing to World Cup victories in 1998 and 2002, where he was the tournament’s leading scorer.

6. Gerd Müller FW

Müller, despite his short stature, stocky build, and lack of conventional speed, defied expectations to become one of football’s most lethal strikers. His explosive acceleration over short distances, exceptional heading ability, and unmatched scoring instincts set him apart. He could pivot with perfect balance in tight spaces at speeds that left defenders stumbling. Known for scoring in improbable situations, Müller set national records with 68 goals in 62 international matches, 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga games, and an international record of 66 goals in 74 European Club matches, cementing his status as the most prolific striker of his era.

5. Johann Cruyff OMF, ST

Cruyff, a legendary Dutch footballer and coach, was awarded the title of European Footballer of the Year three times. In 1999, he was honored as the European Player of the Century by the IFFHS and ranked second, behind Pelé, in the World Player of the Century poll. Renowned for his technical skills, speed, and acceleration, Cruyff’s greatest strength was his exceptional vision and ability to anticipate his teammates’ movements during attacks. Many believe he surpassed all previous players in his capacity to bring out the best in those around him.

4. Franz Beckenbauer SW, DMF

Franz Beckenbauer, a German football icon, is credited with revolutionizing the attacking sweeper role. Known as “Der Kaiser,” he is the only individual to both captain and coach World Cup-winning teams (1974 and 1990). He spent the majority of his career at Bayern Munich, guiding the club to three European Cup victories and four national championships. Beckenbauer was named European Footballer of the Year in 1972 and 1976 and is widely regarded as the greatest German footballer of all time, as well as one of the sport’s all-time legends.

3. Zinedine Zidane OMF, CMF

Known affectionately as Zizou, Zinedine Zidane is a retired French midfielder whose illustrious career includes triumphs in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Euro 2000, and the 2002 UEFA Champions League. He is one of only two players to have won the FIFA World Player of the Year award three times. Zidane also earned the Golden Ball as the MVP in both the 1998 and 2006 World Cups. Starting his professional journey with Cannes, he quickly ascended to prominence. His legacy was cemented by scoring two goals in the 1998 World Cup final, leading France to its first-ever World Cup victory over Brazil. A passionate and inspirational leader, Zidane topped an online poll conducted by UEFA.

2. Pele born 1940

Pele, known as “the Black Pearl,” is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. With an astounding career total of 1,280 goals, he became one of the world’s most beloved athletes and was named Athlete of the Century by the global National Olympic Committees in 1999, despite never competing in the Olympics. In March 2002, the jersey he wore during the 1970 World Cup final was auctioned for $220,850. Pelé also served as Brazil’s Minister of Sports from 1995 to 1998.

1. Diego Maradona FW

Maradona is a national icon in Argentina, revered for elevating his team to unprecedented success and earning the nickname “San Diego” among fans. He also revolutionized sports salaries, commanding record-breaking paychecks throughout his career. However, his struggles with cocaine addiction led to an early retirement. Maradona’s legacy includes two unforgettable goals against England: one famously scored with his hand, dubbed the “Hand of God,” and another where he weaved through multiple defenders with unmatched skill.

+ Claudio Gentile

Regarded by many as the finest man-marker in football history, Gentile’s defining moment occurred on July 11, 1982, when he delivered a flawless defensive performance alongside Gaetano Scirea, helping Italy secure a 3-1 victory over West Germany to win the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain. Gentile gained international recognition during the second-phase match against defending champions Argentina, where he effectively neutralized Diego Maradona through relentless physical play. In Italy’s subsequent match against Brazil, he made headlines for a harsh tackle on Zico and tearing the Brazilian’s shirt during a heated exchange.

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