The 16 Most Decorated Footballers in History – Ranked
In football, greatness is often defined not only by skill but by silverware. From legends who spent decades at one club to globetrotting icons who conquered every league they touched, these are the most decorated players the sport has ever seen – ranked from 16 to 1 based on trophies won.
16. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 32 Trophies
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was a serial winner who lifted trophies in five different countries, including Italy, Spain, and France. Despite never winning the Champions League, his relentless drive and confidence ensured a glittering career filled with domestic success.
15. Luka Modric – 33 Trophies
Luka Modric achieved legendary status at Real Madrid, winning six Champions League titles and dominating Europe with his elegance. Before his Madrid days, he had already collected silverware with Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia.
14. Xavi – 33 Trophies
Xavi was the architect of Barcelona’s midfield during their most successful period, lifting every major club title available. He also led Spain to historic back-to-back European Championship victories and a World Cup win.
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13. Karim Benzema – 33 Trophies
Karim Benzema’s trophy haul is headlined by five Champions League titles with Real Madrid. His combination of longevity and clutch performances made him a central figure in one of football’s most successful modern dynasties.
12. Thomas Muller – 34 Trophies
Thomas Muller has been a key figure at Bayern Munich for over a decade, winning 13 Bundesliga titles and two Champions Leagues. His creative output and unorthodox style earned him a reputation as one of football’s most intelligent attackers.
11. Toni Kroos – 34 Trophies
Toni Kroos retired in 2024 after a career defined by control and consistency, winning major trophies with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. He also helped Germany secure the World Cup in 2014, adding a golden international chapter to his legacy.
10. Ryan Giggs – 35 Trophies
Ryan Giggs was the embodiment of Manchester United’s success under Sir Alex Ferguson, claiming a record 13 Premier League titles. His adaptability and longevity made him one of the most decorated British players of all time.
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9. Kenny Dalglish – 35 Trophies
Kenny Dalglish enjoyed success both in Scotland with Celtic and in England with Liverpool, where he won three European Cups. Revered by fans across two nations, he remains a symbol of footballing excellence on and off the pitch.
8. David Alaba – 36 Trophies
David Alaba collected a decade’s worth of titles at Bayern Munich before continuing his winning ways at Real Madrid. His versatility and leadership have made him a consistent presence in championship-winning sides.
7. Cristiano Ronaldo – 36 Trophies
Cristiano Ronaldo’s career spans Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and international glory with Portugal. His five Champions League wins and record-breaking scoring feats are matched by his insatiable hunger for titles.
6. Sergio Busquets – 37 Trophies
Sergio Busquets was the defensive midfield general of both Barcelona and Spain, quietly winning everything from La Liga to the World Cup. Even in the MLS, he continued to add silverware late into his career.
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5. Gerard Pique – 37 Trophies
Gerard Pique won it all at Barcelona, including four Champions League titles and nine La Liga championships. His contributions to Spain’s World Cup and Euro victories cemented his legacy as one of the game's great defenders.
4. Andres Iniesta – 37 Trophies
Andres Iniesta delivered unforgettable moments on the biggest stages, most notably his 2010 World Cup-winning goal. Beyond his brilliance with Spain, he was a serial winner during his decorated years with Barcelona.
3. Hossam Ashour – 39 Trophies
Hossam Ashour may be lesser known globally, but his loyalty to Al Ahly yielded one of the most impressive trophy hauls in football history. With 13 Egyptian league titles and multiple African continental wins, he is Africa’s most decorated player.
2. Dani Alves – 43 Trophies
Dani Alves stands as the most decorated defender ever, with success in Brazil, Spain, France, and Italy. His explosive style and relentless competitiveness saw him lift three Champions League trophies and two Copa Americas.
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1. Lionel Messi – 46 Trophies
Lionel Messi tops the list after a remarkable career filled with triumphs for club and country. From Barcelona and PSG to Inter Miami and Argentina, he has won nearly every trophy imaginable, including the World Cup and Copa America.
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