The 25 Greatest Foreign Premier League Players – Ranked

May 29, 2025 Oliver Obel

Since its inception in 1992, the Premier League has been a magnet for international footballing talent. From elite defenders to world-class strikers, foreign players have played a pivotal role in shaping the league’s global reputation. Here, we count down the 25 greatest non-English players to grace England’s top flight, starting from number 25 all the way to the very best.

25. Alisson

Alisson Becker — Photo: daykung / Shutterstock.com

Alisson transformed Liverpool’s defence when he joined in 2018. His shot-stopping ability and calmness under pressure were crucial in delivering two league titles.

24. Patrice Evra

Evra was a key part of Manchester United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson. With five Premier League titles and nearly 300 appearances, he was one of the most reliable left-backs of his time.

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23. Edwin van der Sar

Van der Sar brought stability to Manchester United’s goal after a long search for a dependable keeper. His presence and consistency helped United win four league titles during his stay.

22. Luis Suarez

Luis Suárez — Fabrizio Andrea Bertani / Shutterstock.com

Suarez’s time at Liverpool was short but spectacular. His ability to score and create goals made him one of the most feared forwards in the league.

21. Yaya Toure

Toure evolved into a dominant figure at Manchester City, particularly during their 2013/14 title-winning season. His goal-scoring from midfield and overall influence were unmatched.

20. Ruud van Nistelrooy

Van Nistelrooy was one of the most clinical strikers the Premier League has seen. He scored 95 goals in just 150 appearances and won the Golden Boot in 2002/03.

19. N’Golo Kanté

Kanté helped Leicester City to an improbable title and then repeated the feat with Chelsea. His energy and ball-winning ability made him a standout player in both campaigns.

18. Eden Hazard

Hazard’s creativity and dribbling ability defined Chelsea’s attacking play for several seasons. With 85 goals and 54 assists, he was instrumental in two league title wins.

17. Petr Čech

Peter Cech — Photo: Andrew Will / Shutterstock.com

Čech holds the Premier League record for most clean sheets. His arrival at Chelsea in 2004 brought a new level of defensive solidity and success.

16. Nemanja Vidić

Nemanja Vidic — LEVANTEMEDIA / Shutterstock.com

Vidić was a cornerstone of Manchester United’s defence during a highly successful period. His physicality and leadership helped secure five league titles.

15. David Silva

Photo: Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

Silva’s vision and passing ability helped reshape Manchester City’s playing style. Over ten seasons, he became one of the most creative midfielders in Premier League history.

14. Cesc Fàbregas

Fàbregas made a major impact at both Arsenal and Chelsea, tallying over 100 assists. His passing range and football intelligence set him apart.

13. Vincent Kompany

Kompany was Manchester City’s leader during their rise to the top of English football. His defensive performances and leadership were vital in four title wins.

12. Peter Schmeichel

Schmeichel was a key figure in Manchester United’s 1990s dominance. Known for his commanding presence, he won five league titles and even scored a goal.

11. Virgil van Dijk

Van Dijk elevated Liverpool’s defence to elite levels upon his arrival. His composure, aerial strength, and reading of the game were central to two league titles.

10. Dennis Bergkamp

Bergkamp brought grace and technical mastery to Arsenal’s attack. Though not the highest scorer, his vision and creativity had a lasting impact.

9. Didier Drogba

Drogba was the ultimate big-game player for Chelsea. His powerful forward play and clutch performances led the club to four Premier League titles.

8. Roy Keane

Keane led Manchester United with unmatched intensity and drive. His influence in midfield helped secure seven league championships.

7. Sergio Agüero

Agüero scored 184 Premier League goals, including the most iconic title-winning goal in history. His consistency over a decade made him City’s all-time great.

6. Patrick Vieira

Vieira was the engine behind Arsenal’s greatest sides, combining physical dominance with technical skill. His rivalry with Roy Keane defined an era.

5. Kevin De Bruyne

De Bruyne redefined playmaking in the modern Premier League era. With six titles and unmatched passing precision, he remains one of the most effective midfielders ever.

4. Mohamed Salah

Salah became a superstar at Liverpool with remarkable consistency and goal numbers. Operating from the wing, he played a key role in ending the club’s 30-year title drought.

3. Eric Cantona

Cantona’s arrival at Manchester United signaled the start of a new dynasty. His flair and influence were instrumental in United’s early Premier League success.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo evolved from a promising teenager into a global superstar at Manchester United. With over 100 goals and three league titles, he left a massive legacy.

1. Thierry Henry

Henry is widely regarded as the best player to ever play in the Premier League. With 175 goals and four Golden Boots, he combined pace, technique, and flair like no other.