Ranking the 20 Greatest Portuguese Players of All Time

June 9, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Portugal has produced some of the most technically gifted and charismatic footballers in history. From iconic legends to modern stars, here’s a countdown of the 20 greatest Portuguese players ever.

20. João Pinto

Joao Pinto — By Adzio92 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25373324

A creative and tenacious forward, João Pinto was a key figure in Portugal’s 1990s “Golden Generation.” Known for his vision and flair, he earned over 80 caps and scored in major tournaments.

19. Nené

A prolific striker in the 1970s and ’80s, Nené was a loyal Benfica legend who also delivered for the national team. He scored 22 goals in 65 appearances for Portugal.

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18. José Águas

Jose aguas — By Jack de Nijs for AnefoNationaal Archief, Den Haag, Rijksfotoarchief: Fotocollectie Algemeen Nederlands Fotopersbureau (ANEFO), 1945-1989 – negatiefstroken zwart/wit, nummer toegang 2.24.01.05, bestanddeelnummer 913-8531 – Nationaal Archief Fotocollectie Anefo, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29825792

A goal machine for Benfica in the 1950s and early 1960s, Águas was the captain of their first European Cup-winning team. He had a short but effective national team career.

17. Rúben Dias

One of the best defenders of the modern era, Dias has become Portugal’s rock at the back. Calm, composed, and a leader at Manchester City, his rise has been rapid and remarkable.

16. José Torres

Nicknamed “The Blonde Bombshell,” Torres was a dominant aerial presence and scored crucial goals for Portugal, including during their historic 1966 World Cup run.

15. Fernando Gomes

A two-time European Golden Shoe winner, Gomes was a lethal striker with exceptional instincts in the box. He remains a Porto icon and scored regularly for the national team.

14. Fernando Peyroteo

One of football’s most overlooked legends, Peyroteo had an unbelievable goal record in the 1930s and ’40s. He scored over 500 goals in fewer than 350 games.

13. Bruno Fernandes

With his eye for goal and creative passing, Bruno has become a midfield leader for Portugal and Manchester United. His influence continues to grow at both club and international level.

12. Pauleta

Before Ronaldo broke all records, Pauleta was Portugal’s top scorer. Known for his poacher’s instincts, he scored 47 goals in 88 appearances, including World Cup and Euro goals.

11. Bernardo Silva

One of the most elegant and intelligent midfielders of his generation, Bernardo is a maestro for both Portugal and Manchester City. His vision and dribbling make him world-class.

10. Nani

Often in Ronaldo’s shadow, Nani was still vital for Portugal, especially during Euro 2016 where he scored three goals. His flair and work ethic earned him 112 caps and a major title.

9. Ricardo Carvalho

A classy center-back, Carvalho was part of Mourinho’s legendary Porto and Chelsea defenses. He won major honors and was a Euro 2016 champion with Portugal.

8. Paulo Futre

A thrilling winger in the ’80s and ’90s, Futre finished second in the 1987 Ballon d’Or. Injuries limited his impact, but his talent was undeniable, winning trophies in Portugal and Spain.

7. Pepe

A defensive warrior with longevity few can match, Pepe earned over 140 caps and starred in Euro 2016. He won Champions League titles with Real Madrid and left a fierce legacy.

6. Deco

A Brazilian-born playmaker, Deco was the heartbeat of Mourinho’s Porto and later starred for Barcelona. He played at three major tournaments for Portugal and brought creativity and grit.

5. Rui Costa

A master playmaker with grace and vision, Rui Costa lit up Serie A with Fiorentina and Milan. He earned 94 caps and scored in Euro 2004 before retiring on the international stage.

4. Mário Coluna

Mario Coluna — By Nationaal Archief, Den Haag, Rijksfotoarchief: Fotocollectie Algemeen Nederlands Fotopersbureau (ANEFO), 1945-1989 – negatiefstroken zwart/wit, nummer toegang 2.24.01.05, bestanddeelnummer 922-0864 – cropped from Nationaal Archief Fotocollectie Anefo, CC BY-SA 3.0 nl, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25683387

A dominant midfielder in the 1960s, Coluna captained Portugal to third place in the 1966 World Cup. He also won two European Cups with Benfica and is remembered as a true leader.

3. Luís Figo

Luis Figo — Photo: OSCAR GONZALEZ FUENTES / Shutterstock.com

A Ballon d’Or winner in 2000, Figo was a Galáctico who starred for both Barcelona and Real Madrid. With over 120 caps and elite playmaking, he defined an era of Portuguese football.

2. Eusébio

Eusebio — Panini, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

A national hero, Eusébio won the Ballon d’Or in 1965 and was top scorer at the 1966 World Cup. His pace, power, and finishing made him one of the most feared strikers of all time.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

The greatest Portuguese player ever, Ronaldo holds nearly every record imaginable – most goals, most caps, and Euro 2016 glory. With over 900 goals and five Ballon d’Ors, he’s a once-in-a-generation legend who redefined greatness.