Brazil’s 10 greatest footballers of all time, ranked from Jairzinho to Pele

November 17, 2025 Kris Isaksen

From dazzling dribblers to World Cup heroes and prolific goal scorers, Brazil has gifted the world some of football’s most unforgettable icons. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 Brazilian players who shaped the game with flair, passion and brilliance.

10. Jairzinho – The World Cup record holder

Jairzinho etched his name into history during Brazil’s 1970 World Cup triumph by scoring in every single match — a record that still stands today. Powerful and versatile, he could operate on either wing or as a striker with equal impact. A key member of the legendary Selecao side, his performances earned him a spot in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team. Though underrated by younger fans, his contribution to Brazilian football was immense.

9. Didi – The midfield maestro

Didi’s calm and elegant style made him the heartbeat of Brazil’s 1958 and 1962 World Cup-winning teams. He was named the best player of the 1958 tournament, even with teammates like Pele and Garrincha sharing the pitch. His invention of the ‘dry-leaf’ free-kick added a whole new layer of danger to set-pieces. Didi’s intelligence and class defined Brazil’s early dominance on the world stage.

8. Zico – Brazil’s midfield genius

Zico is often called the greatest player never to win a World Cup, but his influence on the pitch is unquestionable. He scored over 500 goals for Flamengo and 48 for the national team in just 71 appearances. His touch, vision, and passing range were world-class, and he dominated in both Brazil and Italy. At Udinese, he was named Serie A’s best player — a testament to his ability on any stage.

7. Neymar – Brazil’s top scorer

Neymar stands as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, blending creativity, pace and flair in a modern footballing package. From his early rise at Santos to starring for Barcelona and PSG, his journey has always captured headlines. While injuries have slowed him in recent years, his talent remains undeniable. Now back at Santos, he’s hoping to write a new chapter in his remarkable career.

6. Romario – The clinical finisher

Romario was pure instinct in front of goal, scoring 55 times in 71 matches for Brazil and lighting up the Dutch league with PSV Eindhoven. He was just as prolific for Barcelona, showcasing his skills on the European stage. Small in stature but deadly in the box, his poacher’s instincts helped lead Brazil to World Cup glory in 1994. He’s remembered as one of the greatest natural finishers the game has ever seen.

5. Rivaldo – The master of the left foot

Rivaldo’s left foot could turn a game in an instant, and his impact at both club and country level was enormous. He won the Ballon d’Or in 1999 and played a starring role in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup triumph. Often overlooked due to the star-studded teams he played in, Rivaldo still managed to stand out with technical brilliance and game-changing moments — especially for Barcelona.

4. Ronaldinho – The magician of joy

Ronaldinho was the embodiment of football’s beauty and unpredictability. With outrageous dribbles, no-look passes, and endless flair, he made fans fall in love with the game all over again. At his peak with Barcelona, he won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 and inspired a generation with his creativity. His legacy isn’t just trophies — it’s the joy he brought to the pitch every time he played.

3. Garrincha – The ultimate underdog

Born with physical disabilities, Garrincha overcame incredible odds to become a national hero. His dribbling defied logic, leaving defenders helpless and crowds in awe. In 1962, with Pele injured, he carried Brazil to World Cup glory almost singlehandedly. Garrincha’s story is one of football’s most magical and enduring tales.

2. Ronaldo – The original phenomenon

Ronaldo Nazário — Maxisport / Shutterstock.com

Ronaldo, or R9, was a force of nature. With explosive speed, impeccable technique and lethal finishing, he thrilled fans across the globe. He won two Ballon d’Ors and scored 420 goals despite serious injuries that could have ended lesser careers. From Barcelona to Real Madrid and both Milan clubs, he was simply unplayable at his best.

1. Pele – The king of the game

Pele remains the most iconic name in football history. The only man to win three World Cups, he was the sport’s first true global superstar and a symbol of Brazilian excellence. With 92 caps and over a thousand goals across official and friendly matches, his influence is unmatched. Even in death, Pele’s name stands tall as the face of football's golden legacy.