AI ranks the 15 greatest Liverpool players of all time — with Salah only 5th

November 14, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Grok AI has released its definitive ranking of Liverpool's all-time legends, and there’s plenty for fans to debate. From modern icons like Mohamed Salah to long-standing greats such as Kenny Dalglish and Steven Gerrard, the list spans every era of the club’s storied history. Let’s count down from 15 to 1 — with a quick look at what made each player unforgettable.

15. Sadio Mané — electric engine of Klopp’s frontline

When Sadio Mané signed for Liverpool in 2016, some doubted the move — but the Senegalese forward quickly silenced critics. With 120 goals and 37 assists, his explosive style and relentless work ethic made him a vital part of the club’s domestic and European success.

14. Terry McDermott — midfield dynamo of the '70s

Terry McDermott played a crucial role during Liverpool’s rise in the late '70s and early '80s. Known for his stamina and knack for scoring, his hat-trick against Hamburg in the 1977 European Super Cup was a standout moment in a glittering career.

13. Ray Clemence — the Reds’ greatest-ever goalkeeper

Ray Clemence guarded the net for Liverpool from 1967 to 1982, racking up 665 appearances. He helped the club win five league titles and three European Cups, cementing his place as not only a Liverpool legend but also one of England’s finest shot-stoppers.

12. Kevin Keegan — the superstar before superstardom

Kevin Keegan was a trailblazer during his six seasons at Anfield, winning three league titles and a European Cup. Though his Ballon d'Or wins came after leaving Liverpool, his brilliance in red laid the foundation for European dominance.

11. Jamie Carragher — Mr. Consistent at the back

Georginio Wijnaldum and Jamie Carragher — MDI / Shutterstock.com

With 737 appearances, Jamie Carragher is second only to Ian Callaghan in games played for Liverpool. A versatile and reliable defender, his leadership and game intelligence were crucial during the club’s highs and lows across two decades.

10. Virgil van Dijk — the modern wall of Anfield

Virgil van Dijk transformed Liverpool’s defence almost overnight after joining in 2017. With his strength, calm presence, and aerial dominance, he was pivotal in securing the 2019 Champions League and the long-awaited 2020 Premier League title.

9. Emlyn Hughes — the first to lift the big one

Emlyn Hughes, nicknamed ‘Crazy Horse’, captained Liverpool through the transformative Shankly-to-Paisley years. His 12-year stint included 10 trophies — notably, he was the first Liverpool player to lift the European Cup.

8. Phil Neal — the most decorated Red of all time

No player has won more with Liverpool than Phil Neal, who claimed 22 trophies across the 1970s and '80s. Renowned for his reliability at right-back, his honours include four European Cups and eight league titles in a glittering 650-game career.

7. Graeme Souness — the fierce midfield general

Graeme Souness was as tough as he was talented, captaining Liverpool through their golden era. With 15 trophies to his name, the Scotsman’s combative leadership and midfield dominance made him a feared and respected figure.

6. Alan Hansen — elegance at centre-back

Alan Hansen brought a rare grace to defending, winning eight league titles and three European Cups. Despite only earning 26 caps for Scotland, his calm, composed style made him the best defender of his era in English football.

5. Mohamed Salah — the Egyptian king of Anfield

Since arriving in 2017, Mohamed Salah has redefined expectations at Liverpool. A modern-day icon, his record-breaking goal tallies and key role in both the 2019 Champions League and 2020 Premier League triumphs speak for themselves.

4. John Barnes — flair and finesse from the left

John Barnes changed the face of English football with his creativity and class. Although his trophy cabinet isn’t as full as others, his influence and skill — especially in the late '80s — made him a generational talent.

3. Ian Rush — the club’s ultimate goal machine

Ian Rush scored an astonishing 346 goals for Liverpool, making him the club’s all-time top scorer. With his ruthless finishing and consistency across 660 appearances, he led the line through multiple title-winning campaigns.

2. Kenny Dalglish — the undisputed King Kenny

Kenny Dalglish’s legacy is unmatched, both as a player and a manager. With six league titles and three European Cups as a player, plus managerial success later, the Scotsman is enshrined in Liverpool’s very identity.

1. Steven Gerrard — the heart and soul of Liverpool

No player embodied Liverpool more than Steven Gerrard. The boyhood fan-turned-captain dragged his team to glory in Istanbul in 2005 and remained a symbol of loyalty and leadership, even without a league title to his name.