The 25 Greatest Liverpool Players of All Time

September 18, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Liverpool Football Club is one of the most storied institutions in football. Founded in 1892, the Reds have won 20 league titles, six European Cups, and countless other trophies. But more than silverware, it is the players, the icons who wore the famous red shirt, who have defined the club’s history.

From the legendary “King” Kenny Dalglish to the inspirational Steven Gerrard, from record-breaking goalscorers like Ian Rush and Mohamed Salah to loyal warriors such as Jamie Carragher, the list of greats is endless. Each generation has had its heroes, players who captured the hearts of the Kop and left an indelible mark on Anfield.

Here, ranked by impact, legacy, and fan recognition, are the 25 greatest Liverpool players of all time.

25. Sadio Mané (2016–2022)

Sadio Mané was Jürgen Klopp’s first big signing, and he helped ignite Liverpool’s modern renaissance. In 269 games, the Senegalese forward scored 120 goals and added 40 assists, forming one of the most feared attacking trios in football history alongside Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.

Mané’s pace, work rate, and knack for scoring in crucial moments made him vital in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph in 2019 and their long-awaited Premier League title in 2020. His goals often set the tone in high-pressure games, whether against Manchester City, Bayern Munich, or Real Madrid.

Equally admired for his humility and charitable work, Mané left Liverpool as a beloved figure. Though he later moved to Bayern Munich and Al-Nassr, his Anfield legacy remains secure.

24. Michael Owen (1996–2004)

Michael Owen burst onto the scene as a teenager, scoring on his debut at just 17. His blistering pace and clinical finishing quickly made him one of Europe’s most feared strikers.

In 2001, Owen led Liverpool to a famous cup treble and won the Ballon d’Or, the last Englishman to do so. His two goals in the FA Cup final against Arsenal are still remembered as one of the competition’s great individual performances.

Although his move to Manchester United soured relations with Liverpool fans, Owen’s brilliance in his prime was undeniable. His goals kept Liverpool competitive at a time when they were chasing the country’s top sides.

23. Roberto Firmino (2015–2023)

Photo: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Roberto Firmino was the heartbeat of Liverpool’s attack under Klopp. While not always prolific, his selfless style allowed Salah and Mané to flourish. He scored 111 goals in 362 games but contributed far more through pressing, link-up play, and relentless energy.

Firmino’s “no-look” finishes and samba celebrations made him a cult hero, while his defensive work epitomized Klopp’s gegenpressing. His role in the Champions League win of 2019 and Premier League triumph of 2020 cannot be overstated.

By the time he left in 2023, Firmino was loved as much for his personality as his football. His impact will be remembered for generations.

22. Alisson Becker (2018–present)

The signing of Alisson Becker in 2018 transformed Liverpool. Finally, the Reds had a world-class goalkeeper to match their ambitions. His reflexes, calmness, and ball-playing ability brought instant stability.

He produced one of the most iconic goals in club history when he scored a stoppage-time header against West Brom in 2021. But more importantly, his saves have been season-defining — from keeping Liverpool alive against Napoli in 2018 to shutting down Tottenham in the 2019 Champions League final.

Alisson remains a pillar of Klopp’s side and is widely considered Liverpool’s greatest-ever goalkeeper.

21. Trent Alexander-Arnold (2016–2025)

Trent Alexander-Arnold was once destined to be Liverpool’s captain and all-time great. A local lad with extraordinary talent, he revolutionized the right-back role with his creativity and crossing. He holds the Premier League record for most assists by a defender.

Trent was instrumental in the Champions League win of 2019 and the Premier League triumph in 2020, producing moments like his famous quick corner against Barcelona.

But his move to Real Madrid in 2025 left fans divided. While his legacy of trophies and records is assured, some supporters view his departure as a betrayal.

20. Sammy Lee (1976–1986)

Sammy Lee may not have been the tallest or most glamorous, but his energy and determination made him vital to Liverpool’s success in the 1980s. A tireless midfielder, he was known for his pressing and knack for scoring key goals.

He won three league titles and two European Cups during his time at Anfield. Bob Paisley once joked that if Lee were taller, they would make him mayor of Liverpool.

Though often overshadowed by bigger names, Lee’s influence on the pitch and his connection with the fans made him unforgettable.

19. Jamie Carragher (1996–2013)

Jamie Carragher epitomized loyalty. A one-club man with 737 appearances, he was the bedrock of Liverpool’s defense for nearly two decades.

Never the most stylish, Carragher compensated with grit, intelligence, and unmatched commitment. His legendary performance in the 2005 Champions League final, where he battled through cramp to help Liverpool complete their miracle comeback, is etched into Anfield folklore.

Carragher’s devotion to Liverpool, both as a player and now as a pundit, makes him one of the club’s most beloved figures.

18. Ray Kennedy (1974–1982)

Ray Kennedy’s versatility made him invaluable. Signed as a striker, he later excelled as a left midfielder under Bob Paisley. Strong, composed, and intelligent, he contributed goals and creativity in equal measure.

Kennedy won five league titles and three European Cups with Liverpool. His quick throw-in to Alan Kennedy in the 1981 European Cup final set up the winning goal against Real Madrid.

Though often underrated, Kennedy was a quiet force during one of Liverpool’s most dominant eras.

17. Ronnie Whelan (1979–1994)

Ronnie Whelan was a midfield dynamo for over a decade. His passing, shooting, and adaptability made him a crucial part of Liverpool’s 1980s dominance.

He won six league titles, an FA Cup, and the 1984 European Cup, often popping up with goals in big matches. His consistency and reliability made him a manager’s dream.

While not as flashy as Barnes or Dalglish, Whelan’s importance to Liverpool’s golden era was immense.

16. Tommy Smith (1962–1978)

Nicknamed “The Anfield Iron,” Tommy Smith was Liverpool’s hard man. Known for his uncompromising tackles, he was the backbone of Bill Shankly’s team.

Smith made over 600 appearances, winning four league titles, two FA Cups, two UEFA Cups, and the club’s first European Cup in 1977. In that final, he scored a thunderous header at age 32 to help Liverpool lift the trophy.

Bill Shankly famously said, “Tommy Smith wasn’t born, he was quarried.” That summed him up perfectly.

15. Robbie Fowler (1993–2001, 2006–2007)

Known to the fans as “God,” Robbie Fowler was one of the most natural goalscorers Liverpool has ever produced. Blessed with instinctive finishing, he scored 183 goals in two spells at the club.

Fowler could score from anywhere — long-range volleys, poacher’s tap-ins, or stunning free-kicks. His ability to embarrass defenders made him a Kop favorite.

Though injuries cut into his career, Fowler’s connection with the fans was unmatched. His mural still stands near Anfield, a reminder of his iconic status.

14. Emlyn Hughes (1967–1979)

Nicknamed “Crazy Horse,” Emlyn Hughes was Liverpool’s inspirational captain during the 1970s. His energy, tackling, and leadership drove the team forward.

He captained Liverpool to their first European Cup in 1977 and lifted it again in 1978. Hughes also won four league titles, two UEFA Cups, and an FA Cup.

A symbol of passion and resilience, Hughes remains one of the club’s greatest captains.

13. Virgil van Dijk (2018–present)

Virgil van Dijk’s arrival in 2018 changed everything. He brought authority, calmness, and dominance to Liverpool’s defense, transforming them into champions.

Van Dijk helped deliver the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020, finishing runner-up for the Ballon d’Or in the same period.

Even after serious injury, his presence remains vital. He is already regarded as one of the best defenders in Liverpool’s history.

12. John Barnes (1987–1997)

John Barnes was a magician on the wing. With his pace, dribbling, and creativity, he was one of the finest players of his generation.

Barnes won two league titles and two FA Cups with Liverpool. His elegance and flair lit up Anfield, even as he faced disgraceful racist abuse.

For many, Barnes is the most naturally talented player to ever wear the red shirt.

11. Kevin Keegan (1971–1977)

Kevin Keegan was Liverpool’s first superstar of the modern era. Signed from Scunthorpe, he became a relentless forward known for his energy and charisma.

Keegan won three league titles, two UEFA Cups, and a European Cup before leaving for Hamburg, where he won two Ballon d’Ors.

His partnership with John Toshack was legendary, and he set the stage for the club’s dominance in the late 1970s.

10. Ray Clemence (1968–1981)

Ray Clemence was Liverpool’s rock in goal during their first European dynasty. With 323 clean sheets in 665 games, he remains one of England’s greatest keepers.

Clemence won five league titles, three European Cups, and countless domestic honors. His calm presence and reliability were priceless.

Bruce Grobbelaar once said: “Clemence was the best in the world at having nothing to do for 89 minutes and then making a save in the 90th.”

9. Alan Hansen (1977–1991)

Alan Hansen was the Rolls-Royce of Liverpool’s defense. Smooth on the ball and intelligent in positioning, he redefined the center-back role.

He won eight league titles and three European Cups in 14 years. As captain, Hansen led with calm authority, complementing tougher defenders like Mark Lawrenson.

His elegance and composure made him one of Liverpool’s greatest leaders.

8. Ian Callaghan (1959–1978)

Liverpool’s all-time appearance maker with 857 games, Ian Callaghan embodied loyalty and endurance. Nicknamed “Marathon Man,” he played through the Shankly and Paisley eras.

Callaghan won five league titles, two FA Cups, and two European Cups. His journey from second division football to European dominance mirrored Liverpool’s rise.

No player symbolizes longevity and commitment more than Callaghan.

7. Roger Hunt (1958–1969)

Sir Roger Hunt was Liverpool’s main striker during their climb from the second tier to the top of English football. He scored 285 goals in 492 appearances, a record that stood for decades.

Hunt helped win two league titles and the club’s first-ever FA Cup in 1965. He was also part of England’s World Cup-winning squad in 1966.

For years, Liverpool was built on Hunt’s goals, and fans adored his gentlemanly character.

6. Graeme Souness (1978–1984)

Graeme Souness was Liverpool’s midfield enforcer and leader during their golden age. Hard in the tackle but silky with the ball, he controlled matches with authority.

He won five league titles and three European Cups in just six years at the club. His fiery personality and technical quality made him one of the most complete midfielders Liverpool ever had.

Souness remains one of the club’s most iconic captains.

5. Ian Rush (1980–1996)

Liverpool’s all-time leading scorer, Ian Rush struck 346 goals in 660 games. Deadly in the box, he was the ultimate finisher.

His partnership with Kenny Dalglish was devastating, leading Liverpool to five league titles, three FA Cups, and two European Cups.

Rush’s consistency and knack for scoring in big games, especially against Everton, made him a Kop hero.

4. Billy Liddell (1938–1961)

Before modern legends, there was Billy Liddell. So dominant was he in post-war Liverpool that the club was often called “Liddellpool.”

He scored 228 goals in 534 appearances, carrying the team through difficult years and inspiring supporters. His loyalty, despite interest from elsewhere, made him a symbol of devotion.

For older generations, Liddell remains the original Liverpool superstar.

3. Mohamed Salah (2017–present)

The “Egyptian King” has become one of Liverpool’s most iconic players. Since 2017, Salah has scored over 200 goals and broken countless records, including the Premier League single-season scoring mark.

He has delivered Champions League and Premier League glory, as well as FA Cup and League Cup titles. His consistency and professionalism have made him one of the best players in the world.

Salah is already a legend — and he’s not finished yet.

2. Steven Gerrard (1998–2015)

Steven Gerrard was the beating heart of Liverpool for over a decade. A complete midfielder, he inspired his team with leadership, goals, and unmatched drive.

His greatest moment came in 2005, when he led the miracle comeback in Istanbul to win the Champions League. Gerrard also lifted two FA Cups, three League Cups, and a UEFA Cup.

Though he never won the Premier League, his loyalty and passion ensure his place as one of Liverpool’s all-time greats.

1. Kenny Dalglish (1977–1990)

Kenny “King Kenny” Dalglish is Liverpool’s greatest ever player. Signed from Celtic in 1977, he replaced Kevin Keegan and instantly became the club’s talisman.

Dalglish scored 172 goals in 515 games and won six league titles and three European Cups. His partnership with Ian Rush was legendary.

Beyond his playing career, Dalglish managed Liverpool to further glory and became a symbol of dignity during the Hillsborough tragedy. For the Kop, there is only one King — Kenny Dalglish.