The Best Soccer Players of All Time

August 14, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Lionel Messi

Often hailed as the greatest of all time, Lionel Messi’s artistry with the ball has set a new benchmark. With record-breaking goal tallies, countless assists, and seven Ballon d’Or wins, his vision and balance are unmatched. From Barcelona to PSG and now Inter Miami, Messi has made magic wherever he’s played, capping it off with a World Cup win for Argentina in 2022.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo combines athleticism, precision, and sheer willpower like no other. With five Ballon d’Or titles and over 800 career goals, he’s conquered England, Spain, and Italy. Known for his aerial dominance and clutch performances, Ronaldo has made his mark on club and international football, becoming Portugal’s all-time top scorer.

Ronaldinho

With his ever-present smile and dazzling footwork, Ronaldinho brought joy to fans across the world. A World Cup winner and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, his no-look passes, elasticos, and freekicks were the stuff of legend. For a glorious few years, the Brazilian playmaker was simply untouchable.

Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona’s legacy is equal parts brilliance and controversy. His solo goal against England in 1986 is widely considered the greatest ever. That same match also featured his infamous “Hand of God” moment. Despite his struggles off the pitch, Maradona led Argentina to World Cup glory and inspired generations.

Pelé

Pele — By Unknown author - El Gráfico, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=95449751

Before Messi and Ronaldo, there was Pelé. The Brazilian icon burst onto the scene at 17 and remains the only player to win three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970). With over 1,000 career goals, Pelé was the face of global football in the 20th century and set the standard for greatness.

Zinedine Zidane

Zidane’s calm demeanor and flawless technique made him one of football’s classiest midfielders. The Frenchman won the World Cup in 1998, the Champions League with Real Madrid, and multiple league titles. His famous volley in the 2002 UCL Final remains one of the most iconic goals in football history.

Johan Cruyff

Johan Cruyff revolutionized football both as a player and thinker. As the leader of “Total Football,” he guided the Netherlands to a World Cup final and dazzled at Ajax and Barcelona. His intelligence and movement reshaped how the game is played, and his legacy lives on through modern tactics.

Neymar

Neymar’s flair, trickery, and explosive pace make him a constant threat. Bursting onto the scene in Brazil before shining at Barcelona and PSG, he’s one of the most technically gifted players of his generation. Though often overshadowed by Messi and Ronaldo, Neymar remains one of the sport’s brightest stars.

Andrés Iniesta & Xavi

These two Spanish midfielders defined an era of dominance for both Barcelona and Spain. Xavi’s passing range and control combined perfectly with Iniesta’s composure and creativity. Together, they won everything, from World Cups to Champions Leagues, and redefined the role of the central midfielder.

Goalkeeping Legends & Defensive Icons

petr cech, Manuel Neuer, Peter Schmiechel — Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.com, photoyh / Shutterstock.com, Mikolaj Barbanell / Shutterstock.com

While attackers often steal the spotlight, defenders and goalkeepers like Gianluigi Buffon, Peter Schmiechel, Manuel Neuer, Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos and Petr Čech and have left an indelible mark. Buffon’s longevity, Neuer’s sweeper-keeper style, and Ramos’ leadership make them some of the finest in their roles. Great teams are built from the back, and these legends proved why.