Brazil’s 20 Greatest Footballers Ever – Ranked

August 12, 2025 Oliver Obel

Brazil is a nation synonymous with football excellence. From Pele to Neymar, the country has produced some of the most extraordinary players the sport has ever seen. This list celebrates the 20 greatest Brazilian footballers to ever grace the game, ranked according to their longevity, international and club success, technical ability, and goal-scoring feats.

20. Taffarel

Cláudio Taffarel — Celil Kirnapci / Shutterstock.com

Claudio Taffarel is a Brazilian goalkeeper who carved out an illustrious career between the posts. He earned his place as Brazil’s number one during the 1994 World Cup, where he led his country to victory in a tense penalty shootout against Italy. Taffarel was also a key figure at clubs like Parma and Galatasaray, bringing his experience to Europe and further cementing his legacy.

19. Marcelo

Marcelo's silky skills and attacking mentality made him one of the finest left-backs of his generation. He was a key part of Real Madrid's dominant run in European football, winning five Champions League titles. Marcelo’s graceful style of play, combined with his ability to bomb down the flank, made him a crucial player for both club and country.

18. Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos is widely regarded as one of the greatest left-backs to ever play the game. His powerful free kicks, like the iconic strike against France, became part of football folklore. Playing for legendary clubs like Real Madrid, Roberto Carlos was instrumental in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup win and is celebrated for his incredible technique and fearless attacking runs down the left wing.

17. Gerson

Gerson was the cerebral midfielder known as ‘The Brain’ behind Brazil’s iconic 1970 World Cup-winning side. His calm, calculated style and ability to control the pace of a game made him an indispensable part of that legendary team. Gerson’s remarkable vision and passing ability helped define the beautiful football that Brazil became known for globally.

16. Rivelino

Rivelino was a master of technique and flair, blending his passing ability with a wicked shot that became one of his trademarks. A star of Brazil’s 1970 World Cup squad, he was instrumental in their attacking play. His innovative style, including his contribution to Ronaldinho’s ‘flip-flap’ move, ensured his place among Brazil’s greatest footballers.

15. Falcao

Falcao may not have received as much spotlight as his compatriots Socrates or Zico, but his contribution to Brazil’s midfield was undeniable. His time at Roma in Italy saw him lead the team to their only Serie A title in decades. Known for his regal playmaking skills, Falcao is remembered as a footballing genius who earned the title of "The Eighth King of Rome."

14. Carlos Alberto

Carlos Alberto is regarded as one of the best defenders in Brazil's football history, but he was much more than that. As captain of the legendary 1970 World Cup team, he scored one of the most famous goals in World Cup history, showcasing his attacking prowess. His leadership and defensive skills were pivotal to Brazil’s success during his career.

13. Cafu

Cafu holds the record as Brazil's most-capped player of all time, and his presence in two World Cup-winning teams solidifies his legendary status. Known for his tireless runs up and down the right flank, Cafu became the epitome of a modern full-back. His leadership on the pitch and his consistency in both defense and attack made him an irreplaceable figure for both Brazil and Roma.

12. Kaka

Kaka was at the peak of his powers when he won the Ballon d'Or in 2007, leading AC Milan to Champions League glory. His graceful playing style and ability to glide past defenders made him one of the most exciting attacking midfielders in football. Though his time at Real Madrid was less successful, Kaka's brilliance on the ball remains a hallmark of his career.

11. Socrates

Socrates, both on and off the pitch, was a figure of great influence in Brazilian football. His unique style of play, combining elegance with a fierce intelligence, helped him captain Brazil in the 1982 World Cup. Despite their heartbreaking elimination, Socrates and his team are remembered for playing some of the most beautiful football ever seen in a World Cup.

10. Jairzinho

Jairzinho was the star of Brazil's 1970 World Cup campaign, becoming the first player to score in every game of the tournament. His versatility allowed him to excel both as a winger and a forward, contributing to Brazil’s attacking prowess. Known for his explosive pace and technical ability, Jairzinho left a lasting legacy in the football world.

9. Didi

Didi's mastery of the ball was unmatched during his career, and he played a pivotal role in Brazil’s 1958 World Cup triumph. Known for his free-kick technique, which later influenced the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Didi was the creative genius behind many of Brazil’s greatest moments in football history. His calm demeanor on the ball and leadership in midfield were essential to Brazil's success during his era.

8. Zico

Zico is often referred to as the greatest player never to win a World Cup, and his influence on Brazilian football is immeasurable. A legend of Flamengo, he scored over 500 goals in club football and was known for his vision, technique, and incredible free-kick ability. Zico’s ability to orchestrate play in the midfield made him a key figure for Brazil during the 1980s.

7. Neymar

Neymar has become Brazil's all-time top scorer and is one of the most exciting talents of his generation. From his early days at Santos to his time at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar has dazzled fans with his flair, dribbling, and playmaking abilities. Though injuries have hindered his career at times, his impact on the pitch remains undeniable.

6. Romario

Romario was one of the most prolific goal scorers in Brazilian football history, with an incredible strike rate both for Brazil and in club football. He was instrumental in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup victory, contributing key goals throughout the tournament. Known for his natural finishing ability, Romario was a nightmare for defenders and a player who could change a game in an instant.

5. Rivaldo

Rivaldo was a key figure in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning team, contributing both goals and assists to one of the most famous forward trios in football history. His creativity, vision, and technical ability set him apart, and his performances at Barcelona earned him the Ballon d'Or in 1999. Rivaldo’s brilliance was often overshadowed by the star power around him, but his skill was undeniable.

4. Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho brought joy to millions with his playful approach to the game and his dazzling tricks. A two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, he was a magician with the ball, capable of turning any match into a spectacle. His time at Barcelona was especially remarkable, where he helped the club win numerous titles, including the Champions League.

3. Garrincha

Garrincha’s story is one of the greatest underdog tales in football history. Born with physical deformities, including crooked legs, Garrincha overcame adversity to become one of the most skillful wingers to ever play the game. His dribbling was unmatched, and his performances at the 1962 World Cup were crucial to Brazil’s success in defending their title.

2. Ronaldo

Ronaldo Nazário — Maxisport / Shutterstock.com

Ronaldo, often referred to as "O Fenomeno," was one of the most complete strikers the world has ever seen. With two Ballon d'Or awards and over 400 goals to his name, Ronaldo’s career was filled with highlights despite being marred by injuries. His ability to finish with both feet, his dazzling dribbles, and his speed made him a nightmare for defenders worldwide.

1. Pele

Pele is, without question, Brazil's greatest footballer of all time. The only player to win three World Cups, Pele’s legacy is unmatched in the sport. From his dazzling displays for Santos to his role in Brazil’s World Cup triumphs, Pele’s influence on football cannot be overstated, and his status as a global icon endures long after his playing days.