The 25 Best PSG Players of the 21st Century – Ranked
Paris Saint-Germain has become one of Europe’s most dominant clubs since the turn of the millennium. The arrival of QSI in 2011 ushered in a new era of star power, silverware, and global attention. Here’s our ranking of the 25 greatest players to represent PSG in the 21st century, starting from number 25.
25. Salvatore Sirigu
The Italian goalkeeper was a cornerstone of PSG’s early QSI era, setting a Ligue 1 clean-sheet record in just his second season. Though later replaced by Kevin Trapp, Sirigu’s consistency helped PSG lift multiple domestic trophies, including a domestic treble in 2014-15.
24. Nene
The Brazilian playmaker lit up Parc des Princes before the Qatari takeover transformed the club. Ligue 1’s top scorer in 2011-12, he carried PSG through a transitional era before leaving in 2013.
23. Lionel Messi
Messi’s time in Paris may not be remembered as his peak, but his numbers were still spectacular: 67 goal contributions in 75 games. In his second season, he hit 21 goals and 20 assists, earning another Ballon d’Or before leaving for Inter Miami.
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22. Christophe Jallet
Initially a squad player, Jallet became a dependable starter and eventually PSG captain under Carlo Ancelotti. Renowned for his consistency and professionalism, he made close to 150 appearances during the club’s transition to the QSI era.
21. Ezequiel Lavezzi
Signed from Napoli at his peak, Lavezzi was a key figure in PSG’s first Ligue 1 title win in 19 years. While he was sometimes inconsistent on the pitch, his energy and personality made him a fan favourite.
20. Gianluigi Donnarumma
Arriving as a Euro 2020 hero, Donnarumma’s first seasons in Paris saw him battle Keylor Navas for the No.1 spot. Now firmly established as first-choice, the Italian has already kept clean sheets in a quarter of his matches and is set to be PSG’s long-term goalkeeper.
19. Ronaldinho
Before becoming a global superstar at Barcelona, Ronaldinho dazzled PSG fans with his tricks, flicks, and outrageous skills. In 77 games, he racked up 42 goal contributions, offering flashes of the genius that would soon dominate world football.
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18. Gabriel Heinze
The Argentine defender was a rock at the back, making 132 appearances and starring in PSG’s 2004 Coupe de France triumph. His performances earned him a move to Manchester United, where he continued to shine.
17. Jay-Jay Okocha
The Nigerian magician thrilled fans with dazzling dribbles and audacious skill moves during his four years in Paris. Though he left in 2002 with only an Intertoto Cup to show, Okocha’s style left a lasting impression on PSG supporters.
16. Javier Pastore
One of the first marquee signings of the QSI era, Pastore won fans over with his elegance and creativity. Persistent injuries curtailed his impact, but his 17 assists in 2014-15 and moments of magic ensured he became a cult hero.
15. Presnel Kimpembe
A rare homegrown success story, Kimpembe has racked up over 250 appearances despite injuries. The tough-tackling defender symbolizes PSG’s commitment to integrating academy talent alongside superstar signings.
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14. Achraf Hakimi
Since arriving from Inter, Hakimi has been one of the best attacking full-backs in Europe. His 37 goal contributions in 128 games underline his importance in both defence and attack for PSG.
13. Maxwell
The definition of consistency, Maxwell won Ligue 1 in each of his first four seasons in Paris. The Brazilian left-back became one of football’s most decorated players and remains a beloved figure at the club.
12. Keylor Navas
Signed from Real Madrid, Navas brought world-class pedigree and stability to PSG’s goal. Despite later losing his place to Donnarumma, he departed with multiple titles and the respect of supporters.
11. Thiago Motta
An elegant yet tough defensive midfielder, Motta was a key cog in PSG’s post-takeover dominance. He made more than 230 appearances and won five Ligue 1 titles before retiring at the club.
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10. Blaise Matuidi
Matuidi was the engine of PSG’s midfield, combining relentless energy with a knack for scoring big goals. Nearly 300 appearances and 16 trophies made him one of the most reliable players of the QSI era.
9. Ángel Di María
The Argentine winger was a creative force for seven seasons, recording 212 goal contributions in 295 games. He delivered in clutch moments, including PSG’s Champions League semi-final win in 2020.
8. Marco Verratti
Verratti was PSG’s heartbeat for more than a decade, making 416 appearances and winning 22 trophies. His mix of grit, technique, and vision made him one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.
7. Pauleta
PSG’s pre-QSI talisman, Pauleta scored 109 goals and won the hearts of fans during a difficult period for the club. He was Ligue 1’s top scorer three times and ended a six-year trophy drought in 2004.
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6. Marquinhos
The ultimate PSG leader, Marquinhos has played more games for the club than anyone in history. A consistent performer and captain, he has been crucial in both domestic success and European campaigns.
5. Thiago Silva
“O Monstro” was the rock at the heart of PSG’s defence for nearly a decade. Over 300 appearances and seven Ligue 1 titles made him one of the greatest defenders of the modern era.
4. Edinson Cavani
With 200 goals in 300 games, Cavani was PSG’s ultimate goal machine until Mbappé overtook him. His work rate, passion, and consistency cemented him as a club legend.
3. Neymar
The most expensive player in history brought unmatched flair and star power to Paris. Despite injuries and drama, Neymar delivered 195 goal contributions in 173 matches and countless moments of magic.
2. Zlatan Ibrahimović
The man who announced PSG’s new era, Zlatan scored 156 goals in 180 games and won Ligue 1 every season he played. His charisma, leadership, and outrageous goals made him a true icon.
1. Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé is PSG’s greatest player of the 21st century, becoming their all-time top scorer with 256 goals and 108 assists. His pace, finishing, and consistency made him the face of the club, even if the Champions League title eluded him.
