Top 20 Left-Footed Footballers of All Time – Ranked

July 14, 2025 Oliver Obel

Left-footed players have always held a unique place in world football. Though they are fewer in number, their flair, elegance, and unpredictable style have left an unforgettable mark on the game. From defensive legends to attacking icons, this list celebrates the 20 greatest left-footed footballers ever — starting from number 20 and working our way to the best.

20. Petr Čech

Peter Cech — Photo: Andrew Will / Shutterstock.com

Though goalkeepers are rarely noted for their dominant foot, Petr Čech stands out as one of the greatest left-footed shot-stoppers in history. His influence at Chelsea transformed them into perennial contenders, and his legacy includes multiple FA Cups and a Champions League final appearance.

19. Adriano

Adriano was a powerhouse striker whose left foot struck fear into defenders across Europe. Despite an inconsistent career, his explosive moments at Inter and brilliant international performances, including Golden Ball and Golden Shoe awards, showcased his immense talent.

18. Karl-Heinz Schnellinger

A stalwart of the 1960s, Schnellinger was known as the "Volkswagen" for his reliability and drive. His success at AC Milan, where he won the Serie A and European Cup, established him as one of the finest left backs of his generation.

17. Ruud Krol

The Dutch defender was the perfect embodiment of versatility, able to play anywhere in the back line with grace and strength. A key figure at Ajax and with the Netherlands, Krol lifted multiple European Cups and reached two World Cup finals.

16. Mesut Özil

A modern maestro, Özil dazzled with his vision, touch, and pinpoint passing. His standout performances at the 2010 World Cup and success at Real Madrid and Germany established him as one of the premier playmakers of his era.

15. David Silva

David Silva was the heartbeat of Spain’s golden generation and a catalyst for Manchester City’s rise to dominance. His creativity, composure, and technical brilliance made him one of the most elegant left-footed midfielders the game has seen.

14. Robin van Persie

Van Persie evolved from a left winger into a lethal central striker, known for his silky technique and stunning left-footed finishes. A Premier League Golden Boot winner, he carried Arsenal and later fired Manchester United to a title.

13. Iker Casillas

A rare left-footed goalkeeper among the game’s elite, Casillas was a cornerstone of Spain’s international dominance. Known for his reflexes and leadership, he helped his country win Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup while starring for Real Madrid.

12. Esteban Cambiasso

Cambiasso’s intelligence and positioning made him a standout central midfielder, a role few left-footers excel in. He thrived at Inter Milan, especially under José Mourinho, winning five Serie A titles and a Champions League crown.

11. Patrice Evra

Evra's transition from striker to full-back was a masterstroke, as he became a cornerstone of Manchester United’s defense. With speed and skill, he contributed to five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph.

10. Ashley Cole

Arguably England’s finest left-back, Cole combined defensive acumen with attacking threat. From the Invincibles at Arsenal to his trophy-laden years at Chelsea, he was a consistent force on the flank for club and country.

9. Paolo Maldini

A symbol of class and loyalty, Maldini played 25 years at AC Milan, winning seven Serie A titles and five Champions Leagues. Though ambidextrous, his left foot was key to his precise defending and distribution from the back.

8. Ferenc Puskás

One of football’s deadliest scorers, Puskás combined power and finesse with his magical left foot. He scored over 500 goals in his club career and led Hungary’s Golden Team, also enjoying great success with Real Madrid.

7. Alfredo Di Stéfano

Di_stefano — By Unknown author - El Gráfico magazine, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=22771140

While often remembered for his all-around brilliance, Di Stéfano’s left foot helped power Real Madrid to five consecutive European Cups. He scored 246 goals for the club and played for Argentina, Colombia, and Spain, earning praise as one of the most complete players ever.

6. Raúl González

Raúl’s legendary status at Real Madrid is built on his unmatched work ethic and left-footed finishing. With over 300 goals for the club and three Champions League titles, he was a model of consistency and leadership.

5. Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos transformed the left-back role into an attacking weapon, best known for his blistering free kicks and overlapping runs. A World Cup winner with Brazil and a three-time Champions League champion with Real Madrid, he was a true game-changer.

4. Ryan Giggs

Giggs spent his entire career at Manchester United, thrilling fans with his pace, dribbling, and pinpoint crosses. With 13 Premier League titles and countless individual honors, he remains one of football’s most decorated and enduring left-footed legends.

3. Johan Cruyff

Johan Cruyff was the living embodiment of intelligence, flair, and innovation in football. As the leader of Total Football, he brought artistry to Ajax and Barcelona, winning Ballons d'Or and shaping the game's future with his left-footed brilliance.

2. Diego Maradona

A true footballing icon, Maradona enchanted fans with his left-footed wizardry and unforgettable moments. Leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986, his skill, creativity, and controversial genius made him a legend beyond the sport.

1. Lionel Messi

Topping the list is Lionel Messi, whose left foot has created magic for Barcelona and Argentina. With multiple Ballon d'Ors, Champions League titles, and over 700 career goals, Messi has set the standard for greatness in the modern era.