25 Greatest Liverpool Players of All Time (Ranked)

September 22, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From King Kenny to Salah's stardom, these icons have defined the Anfield legacy.
Liverpool’s story is inseparable from the stars who’ve lit up Anfield across the decades. From relentless goal-scorers to defensive titans and midfield maestros, these 25 legends have helped build one of the most iconic clubs in football history. Here’s our countdown from 25 to 1 of the greatest players ever to wear the famous red shirt.

25. Sadio Mané

Mané played a transformative role in Jurgen Klopp’s rebuild, scoring 120 goals and winning both the Premier League and Champions League. His class extended beyond the pitch, becoming a beloved figure for his humility and philanthropy.

24. Michael Owen

Owen burst onto the scene with blistering pace and won the Ballon d’Or in 2001. Though his legacy is complicated by a move to Manchester United, his impact at Liverpool during the early 2000s remains undeniable.

23. Roberto Firmino

The glue in Klopp’s front three, Firmino was as selfless as he was stylish. His pressing, creativity, and flair helped Liverpool reach their modern peak, lifting major silverware in the process.

22. Alisson Becker

Alisson redefined Liverpool’s goalkeeping standards, becoming a cornerstone of their recent success. From world-class saves to a historic headed goal, he’s been as vital as any outfield player.

21. Trent Alexander-Arnold

A local lad turned world-class playmaker, Trent broke assist records for defenders and lifted multiple major trophies. His controversial move to Real Madrid in 2025 left fans torn, but his talent is indisputable.

20. Sammy Lee

Lee was a tireless midfielder whose energy and grit powered Liverpool through a dominant 1980s run. His contributions were often quiet, but crucial to the club’s domestic and European success.

19. Jamie Carragher

Georginio Wijnaldum and Jamie Carragher — MDI / Shutterstock.com

Carragher’s 737 appearances speak to his dedication and passion. A no-nonsense defender, he played through pain and led from the back during Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League triumph.

18. Ray Kennedy

Versatile and vital, Kennedy shifted from forward to midfield and helped secure five league titles and three European Cups. His quick thinking set up the winner in the 1981 European Cup final.

17. Ronnie Whelan

Whelan was a consistent, intelligent midfielder who delivered in big moments. His ability to control games and score long-range goals earned him six league titles and a European Cup.

16. Tommy Smith

Nicknamed “The Anfield Iron,” Smith was Liverpool’s enforcer through the ’60s and ’70s. Tough as they come, he famously scored in the 1977 European Cup final, solidifying his warrior reputation.

15. Robbie Fowler

Dubbed “God” by fans, Fowler was a natural goal-scorer with an unerring eye for the net. His 183 goals and connection with supporters made him a permanent icon at Anfield.

14. Emlyn Hughes

“Crazy Horse” was a fiery leader with unmatched energy and heart. He captained Liverpool through an era of dominance, lifting two European Cups and leading by fearless example.

13. Virgil van Dijk

Since arriving in 2018, Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool’s defence with composure and class. His presence has anchored two Premier League titles and a Champions League win.

12. John Barnes

A trailblazer and technical genius, Barnes dazzled with skill and vision from the wing. He overcame adversity to become one of the most beloved players of the late ’80s and ’90s.

11. Kevin Keegan

Before becoming a Ballon d’Or winner abroad, Keegan was the heartbeat of Liverpool’s rise in the 1970s. His partnership with John Toshack and tireless play earned him “King of the Kop” status.

10. Ray Clemence

One of England’s best-ever goalkeepers, Clemence won everything with Liverpool while keeping 319 clean sheets. His reliability made him the backbone of a trophy-laden era.

9. Alan Hansen

The calm, ball-playing centre-back set the standard for modern defenders. Hansen’s elegance and consistency led Liverpool to eight league titles and three European Cups.

8. Ian Callaghan

Callaghan’s journey from second division obscurity to European champion is Liverpool folklore. With 857 appearances, no one has worn the red shirt more often than “Cally.”

7. Roger Hunt

A World Cup winner and clinical finisher, Hunt was Liverpool’s top scorer for eight straight seasons. His 285 goals helped lift the club from mediocrity to championship glory.

6. Graeme Souness

Souness brought steel and style to Liverpool’s midfield, winning five league titles and three European Cups. His leadership and fierce competitiveness made him a legend.

5. Ian Rush

Rush’s 346 goals remain unmatched in Liverpool history. His lethal finishing and partnership with Dalglish powered the club through its most successful decade.

4. Billy Liddell

Liddell carried Liverpool through post-war struggles, earning the nickname “Liddellpool.” A loyal servant, his pace and power made him a beacon during tough times.

3. Mohamed Salah

Salah has broken records and led Liverpool’s modern golden era with explosive goals and unmatched consistency. A Champions League and two-time league winner, he’s a living legend.

2. Steven Gerrard

No one embodied Liverpool’s spirit like Gerrard. His thunderous goals, leadership, and Istanbul heroics etched his name into club history despite never winning the league.

1. Kenny Dalglish

The ultimate Red, Dalglish was both genius player and title-winning manager. “King Kenny” delivered on the biggest stages and remains Liverpool’s most revered figure to this day.