Football’s Finest: Ranking the Top 30 Players Since 2000
The world of football has seen countless extraordinary talents since the turn of the millennium. While opinions on the “best” players may vary, this list represents our perspective on the top 20 footballers who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From goalkeepers to forwards, these players have dazzled fans, rewritten records, and defined eras. Let’s dive into their incredible careers.
30. Fernando Torres
Fernando Torres was one of the most electrifying forwards of his era. Known for his blistering pace and clinical finishing, Torres shone brightest during his time at Liverpool, where he scored 81 goals in 142 appearances. On the international stage, he delivered one of Spain’s most iconic moments by scoring the winning goal in the Euro 2008 final. His success continued with Chelsea, where he won the Champions League and Europa League, cementing his legacy.
29. Paul Scholes
Paul Scholes was the epitome of midfield brilliance during his illustrious career with Manchester United. Renowned for his vision, pinpoint passing, and thunderous long-range shots, Scholes was a pivotal figure in United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson. With 11 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, and over 700 appearances for the club, Scholes remains one of the most admired midfielders of his generation.
28. Marcelo
Marcelo redefined the role of a left-back with his flair, technical skill, and attacking contributions. The Brazilian was a key player in Real Madrid’s golden era, winning five Champions League titles and numerous domestic trophies. Known for his dribbling, creativity, and ability to influence games from deep, Marcelo’s unique style and consistency made him one of the greatest full-backs in history.
Read also: The 25 Best Strikers in World Football Right Now - Ranked from Lowest to Highest
27. Didier Drogba
Didier Drogba was a big-game player like no other, delivering clutch performances when it mattered most. His decisive penalty in the 2012 Champions League final secured Chelsea’s first-ever title in the competition. The Ivorian striker combined power, precision, and leadership to become one of the Premier League’s all-time greats, scoring 104 goals for Chelsea in the league. Drogba’s influence extended beyond the pitch, becoming a cultural icon in Africa.
26. Andrea Pirlo
Andrea Pirlo was a midfield maestro whose elegance and intelligence on the ball set him apart. Known for his pinpoint long passes and stunning free kicks, Pirlo was instrumental in Italy’s 2006 World Cup triumph. At the club level, he enjoyed success with both AC Milan and Juventus, winning numerous Serie A titles and two Champions League trophies. Pirlo’s composure and vision earned him the nickname “The Architect.”
25. Gerard Piqué
Gerard Piqué was a cornerstone of Barcelona’s and Spain’s dominance throughout the 2010s. A defender with excellent technical ability and tactical awareness, Piqué played a vital role in Spain’s historic treble of Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012. At Barcelona, he won multiple La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies, solidifying his place among football’s great defenders.
24. Dani Alves
Dani Alves is the most decorated player in football history, having won over 40 trophies during his illustrious career. A dynamic right-back, Alves was known for his attacking prowess, exceptional crossing, and defensive reliability. He was a key part of Barcelona’s legendary team under Pep Guardiola, winning three Champions League titles. Alves’ contributions to Brazil’s national team, including Copa América triumphs, further highlight his extraordinary career.
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23. David Villa
David Villa was one of Spain’s most prolific strikers and a crucial figure in their golden generation. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement were on full display during Spain’s Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 triumphs, where he was the top scorer in both tournaments. Villa enjoyed a stellar club career with Valencia, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid, winning league titles and the Champions League. He retired as Spain’s all-time leading scorer.
22. Neymar
Neymar has dazzled the football world with his extraordinary flair, skill, and creativity. Bursting onto the scene with Santos in Brazil, Neymar became a global superstar at Barcelona, forming the iconic “MSN” trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. He won the Champions League in 2015 and multiple domestic titles with Barcelona and PSG. Neymar’s exceptional dribbling and goal-scoring ability have made him one of the most exciting players of his generation.
21. Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema has established himself as one of the finest strikers in modern football. A key figure in Real Madrid’s unprecedented run of five Champions League titles between 2014 and 2022, Benzema evolved from a supporting player to the team’s main attacking star. His technical skill, vision, and lethal finishing earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2022. Benzema’s consistency and clutch performances define his remarkable career.
20. Gianluigi Buffon
Gianluigi Buffon is a true icon of modern goalkeeping. With a career spanning over two decades, Buffon has represented clubs like Parma, Juventus, and PSG, winning numerous league titles and cups. Known for his reflexes, composure, and leadership, he helped Italy lift the 2006 FIFA World Cup and was awarded the tournament’s Lev Yashin Award. Buffon’s longevity and consistency have cemented him as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history.
19. Arjen Robben
Few players have been as predictable yet unstoppable as Arjen Robben. The Dutch winger, famous for cutting inside from the right flank to unleash his lethal left foot, enjoyed a glittering career at clubs like Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. Robben was instrumental in Bayern’s treble-winning season in 2013, scoring the decisive goal in the Champions League final. His speed, dribbling, and precision made him a nightmare for defenders.
18. Franck Ribéry
Franck Ribéry was a key part of Bayern Munich’s dominance in the 2010s, forming a legendary partnership with Arjen Robben. Ribéry’s creativity, flair, and work ethic made him one of the most dynamic wingers of his generation. He won multiple Bundesliga titles and the Champions League in 2013, narrowly missing out on the Ballon d’Or the same year. Ribéry’s ability to deliver in big moments defined his career.
17. Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos epitomizes midfield elegance and precision. With five Champions League titles and numerous domestic trophies, the German maestro has been a vital part of Real Madrid’s success. Kroos’ passing range, tactical intelligence, and calmness under pressure make him one of the most complete midfielders of all time. His contribution to Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup triumph, where he was a standout performer, solidifies his legacy.
16. Carles Puyol
Carles Puyol embodied leadership, grit, and passion. The Barcelona and Spain captain was the defensive anchor behind some of the most dominant teams in football history. Puyol led Spain to glory at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2008, while also winning numerous trophies with Barcelona, including three Champions League titles. His commitment on the pitch and sportsmanship off it made him a beloved figure in world football.
Read also: The 20 Best Goalkeepers in the World Right Now - Ranked
15. Iker Casillas
“San Iker” is one of the most decorated goalkeepers in football history. A symbol of Real Madrid and Spain’s dominance, Casillas won five La Liga titles, three Champions League trophies, and captained Spain to their historic treble: Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2012. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and crucial saves, Casillas delivered when it mattered most.
14. Manuel Neuer
Manuel Neuer revolutionized the goalkeeper position with his “sweeper-keeper” style. His fearless forays outside the box and impeccable shot-stopping skills redefined the role of modern goalkeepers. Neuer was instrumental in Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup victory and has been a key player for Bayern Munich, winning multiple Bundesliga titles and two Champions League trophies.
13. Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos is the epitome of a big-game player. The Spanish defender, known for his aggression and aerial dominance, has scored crucial goals in some of football’s biggest moments, including the 2014 Champions League final. With over 20 major trophies for Real Madrid and Spain, including two Euros and a World Cup, Ramos’ leadership and winning mentality have made him one of the greatest defenders in history.
12. Zlatan Ibrahimović
Zlatan Ibrahimović is a larger-than-life figure, both on and off the pitch. Known for his acrobatic goals and unmatched confidence, Zlatan has won league titles in four different countries. From Ajax to Milan, PSG, and beyond, he’s been a consistent match-winner. Despite never lifting a Champions League trophy, his individual brilliance and iconic moments make him a football legend.
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11. Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney is Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer and one of England’s greatest players. Renowned for his versatility, power, and creativity, Rooney won five Premier League titles and a Champions League with United. His fiery passion and ability to deliver in clutch moments ensured his status as a Premier League icon.
10. Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski is a goal machine, consistently among the top scorers in Europe. The Polish striker has dominated both the Bundesliga and the Champions League, notably scoring 41 goals in the 2020/21 Bundesliga season to break a decades-old record. His finishing, positioning, and football intelligence are unparalleled.
9. Kaká
Kaká was a symbol of grace and class during his peak years at AC Milan. The Brazilian playmaker won the 2007 Ballon d’Or and was pivotal in Milan’s Champions League triumph that same year. Known for his dribbling, vision, and humility, Kaká’s prime remains one of the finest in football history.
8. Xavi Hernández
Xavi Hernández was the heartbeat of Barcelona’s tiki-taka system and Spain’s golden generation. His unparalleled passing and ability to control games earned him numerous trophies, including four Champions League titles and two European Championships. Xavi redefined the role of the deep-lying playmaker.
7. Luka Modrić
Luka Modrić is a midfield maestro who has aged like fine wine. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner led Croatia to their first World Cup final and has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s Champions League dominance. His technical skills, work rate, and leadership set him apart as one of the all-time greats.
6. Andrés Iniesta
Andrés Iniesta was the man for the biggest moments, scoring Spain’s winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final. A midfield genius, he was crucial to both Barcelona and Spain’s success, winning numerous trophies with his vision, control, and ability to dictate the game.
5. Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry was a striker who could do it all—dribble, pass, and score in spectacular fashion. Arsenal’s record scorer and an invincible in 2003/04, Henry also shone for France, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. His elegance and efficiency make him one of the best forwards ever.
4. Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho brought joy to football with his incredible skill and creativity. The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner was a key figure in Barcelona’s revival, winning two La Liga titles and the 2006 Champions League. His no-look passes, dribbles, and smile made him a global fan favorite.
3. Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane combined elegance with power like no other. The French legend won the 1998 World Cup, Euro 2000, and starred in Champions League finals, including his iconic volley in 2002. As both a player and a coach, Zidane remains a football icon.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is a relentless goal machine, winning five Ballon d’Or titles and countless trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. Known for his incredible athleticism and clutch performances, Ronaldo’s drive for success has kept him at the top for over two decades.
1. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time. With 7 Ballon d’Or titles, four Champions League trophies, and a historic World Cup victory in 2022, Messi’s career is unparalleled. His dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring abilities make him a once-in-a-lifetime talent.
What’s your take on this list? Let us know who makes your top 20!
