Top 10 Best Football Players in the World

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In the illustrious realm of football, where passion converges with skill, and competition unfolds like an epic saga on the pitch, a select group of players transcend the boundaries of excellence to etch their names in the annals of the sport. The beautiful game has been graced by the presence of extraordinary talents, each possessing a unique blend of skill, athleticism, and an innate understanding of the intricacies that make football the global spectacle that it is today.

As we delve into the world of football’s finest, this article embarks on a journey to unveil the individuals who stand as paragons of the sport, celebrated not only for their prowess with the ball but also for the indelible mark they leave on the collective imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide. From the dazzling dribbles that defy gravity to the clinical precision of goal-scoring prowess, these players represent the zenith of footballing excellence, capturing the hearts and admiration of fans across continents.

Join us as we explore the achievements, the magic, and the sheer brilliance of the best football players in the world, delving into their compelling narratives that have shaped the landscape of the beautiful game and left an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Top 10 Best Football Players Of Our Time

Player	Year of Birth	Country	Total Goals	Ballon d’Or
Lionel Messi	1987	Argentina	821	8
Cristiano Ronaldo	1985	Portugal	857	5
Neymar	1992	Brazil	136	9 nominations, 0 Ballons
Karim Benzema	1987	France	353	1 and 12 nominations
Luka Modric	1985	Croatia	91	1
Robert Lewandowski	1988	Poland	187	8 nominations, 0 Ballons
Sadio Mane	1992	Senegal	214	2 nominations, finished at 2nd and 4th places
Kylian Mbappé	1998	France	306	6 nominations, 0 Ballons
Kevin De Bruyne	1991	Belgium	143 and 285 assists	1 nomination in 2022
Mohamed Salah	1992	Egypt	322	5 nominations in row, 0 Ballons

Lionel Messi

• Year of Birth: 1987
• Year of Professional Debut: 2004
• Country: Argentina
• Current Team: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
• Previous Teams: FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, recently secured his eighth Ballon d’Or, setting a new record. His remarkable career boasts numerous accolades, including seven FIFA World Player of the Year awards, nine La Liga Player of the Year titles, and six European Golden Shoes. Messi’s international success reached its pinnacle when he led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, earning him the prestigious World Cup Golden Ball for the second time.

Beyond international triumphs, Messi’s 21-year association with FC Barcelona stands as a testament to his unparalleled impact on club football. During his tenure, he amassed an impressive list of records, including scoring the most goals for Barcelona (672), winning 10 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Rey titles, and clinching 4 UEFA Champions League titles. Messi’s enduring legacy is etched not only in individual awards but also in his significant contributions to the success of both Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo

• Year of Birth: 1985
• Year of Professional Debut: 2002
• Country: Portugal
• Current Team: Al Nassr
• Previous Teams: Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus

Ballon d’Or Awards: Ronaldo has won the prestigious Ballon d’Or six times.

FIFA World Player of the Year: He has been named the FIFA World Player of the Year on two occasions (2008, 2014).

UEFA Best Player in Europe Award: Ronaldo won the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award three times (2014, 2016, 2017).

European Golden Shoe: Ronaldo is a four-time winner of the European Golden Shoe, awarded to the top goal-scorer in domestic leagues (2007–08, 2010–11, 2013–14, 2014–15).

UEFA Champions League Titles: Ronaldo has won the UEFA Champions League five times with Manchester United and Real Madrid.

UEFA European Championship: Ronaldo led Portugal to victory in the UEFA European Championship in 2016.

UEFA Nations League: He captained Portugal to win the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

Awards:

• PFA Players’ Player of the Year: Ronaldo received the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award twice during his time with Manchester United (2006–07, 2007–08).
• Serie A MVP: In Italy, Ronaldo was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of Serie A in the 2018–19 season.
• FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: Ronaldo earned the FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball for the best player in the tournament in 2014.
• UEFA Champions League Final Man of the Match: Ronaldo has been named the Man of the Match in multiple UEFA Champions League finals, demonstrating his impact in crucial moments.

Neymar

• Year of Birth: 1992
• Year of Professional Debut: 2009
• Country: Brazil
• Current Team: Al Hilal SFC
• Previous Teams: Santos, FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

Most Expensive Football Transfer: Neymar’s transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017 set a world record for the most expensive football transfer, with a fee of €222 million.

UEFA Champions League: Neymar won the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona in the 2014-2015 season.

La Liga Titles: While at Barcelona, Neymar clinched multiple La Liga titles.

Copa del Rey: Neymar contributed to Barcelona’s success in the Copa del Rey during his tenure at the club.

Domestic League Success with PSG: Since joining Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar has helped the club secure multiple Ligue 1 titles.

Olympic Gold Medal: Neymar played a crucial role in Brazil’s triumph in men’s football at the 2016 Rio Olympics, securing a gold medal.

FIFA Confederations Cup: Neymar won the FIFA Confederations Cup with Brazil in 2013.

FIFA Club World Cup: Neymar has been part of teams that won the FIFA Club World Cup with both Barcelona and PSG.

Awards:

• South American Footballer of the Year: Neymar has been honored as the South American Footballer of the Year multiple times.
• FIFA Puskás Award: Neymar received the FIFA Puskás Award in 2011 for his goal against Flamengo.
• UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: Neymar has been named in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season for his standout performances.
• FIFA World XI: Neymar has been included in the FIFA World XI, recognizing him as one of the best players globally.
• FIFA Ballon d’Or: Neymar has consistently been a Ballon d’Or nominee, reflecting his status as one of the top footballers in the world.

Karim Benzema

• Year of Birth: 1987
• Year of Professional Debut: 2004
• Country: France
• Current Team: Real Madrid
• Previous Teams: Lyon

Throughout his tenure at Real Madrid, he became the club’s second-highest scorer of all time, amassing 353 goals. Initially playing a supporting role to Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema transitioned into the main attacking force after Ronaldo’s departure, showcasing remarkable consistency by scoring over 60 goals in the subsequent three seasons. The 2021/22 season proved pivotal for Benzema, winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or at the age of 34 and finishing as the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League with 15 goals. His creativity, unselfish playmaking, and significant contributions to Real Madrid’s successes, including five UEFA Champions League titles, underline his status as one of the premier strikers of his era.

Beyond his club endeavors, Benzema represented France with distinction, earning 97 caps and scoring 37 goals. His international achievements include winning the 2021 UEFA Nations League. Benzema’s illustrious career, characterized by adaptability and longevity, has left an indelible mark on the footballing world, solidifying his position as one of the greats, culminating in accolades such as the UEFA Men’s Player of 2022 and the Ballon d’Or.

Luka Modric

• Year of Birth: 1985
• Year of Professional Debut: 2003
• Country: Croatia
• Current Team: Real Madrid
• Previous Teams: Dinamo Zagreb

Modric has carved out a remarkable football legacy as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. His professional journey began in Croatia with Dinamo Zagreb, where his exceptional skills and vision quickly attracted attention. Modric then made a significant move to the English Premier League, joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2008, where he showcased his playmaking abilities.

However, it was his transfer to Real Madrid in 2012 that truly elevated Modric to legendary status. At Real Madrid, he became an integral part of the team’s midfield, contributing to their unprecedented success. Modric played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s dominance in the UEFA Champions League, helping secure four titles in five seasons (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018). His standout performances were particularly highlighted during the 2017/18 season, where he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s third consecutive Champions League triumph.

Individually, Modric’s impact reached its zenith in 2018 when he was awarded the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, recognizing him as the tournament’s best player as he led Croatia to the World Cup final. This achievement was a testament to his exceptional ball control, passing accuracy, and football intelligence. Moreover, Modric’s influence extended beyond his club and national team success, as he clinched the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2018, breaking the decade-long duopoly of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Luka Modric’s football legacy is marked by his elegance on the ball, leadership qualities, and the ability to orchestrate play from the midfield, making him a true maestro and an enduring figure in football history.

Robert Lewandowski

• Year of Birth: 1988
• Year of Professional Debut: 2005
• Country: Poland
• Current Team: Bayern Munich
• Previous Teams: Znicz Pruszków, Lech Poznań, Borussia Dortmund

That striker whose prolific goal-scoring prowess has left an indelible mark on the football world. His professional journey began in Poland with Znicz Pruszków and later Lech Poznań, where he garnered attention for his goal-scoring abilities. In 2010, Lewandowski made a significant move to the German Bundesliga, joining Borussia Dortmund, under the management of Jürgen Klopp.

At Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski quickly established himself as one of Europe’s premier strikers. He played a crucial role in Dortmund’s back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2011 and 2012. However, his crowning moment came in the 2012/13 UEFA Champions League campaign. In the semi-final against Real Madrid, Lewandowski etched his name in history by scoring four goals in a single match, showcasing his clinical finishing and goal-scoring instinct on the grandest stage.

In 2014, Lewandowski embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining Bayern Munich, where he continued his goal-scoring exploits. He became a linchpin for Bayern, leading them to numerous Bundesliga titles and consistently finishing as the league’s top scorer. One of his most remarkable achievements occurred in 2015, when he scored five goals in just nine minutes against VfL Wolfsburg, setting multiple records and solidifying his status as one of the most lethal strikers in the game. Lewandowski’s legacy is defined by his incredible goal-scoring consistency, clinical finishing, and his ability to perform at the highest level for both club and country, cementing his place among football’s all-time greats.

Sadio Mane

• Year of Birth: 1992
• Year of Professional Debut: 2011
• Country: Senegal
• Current Team: Liverpool
• Previous Teams: Metz, Red Bull Salzburg, Southampton

His professional journey gained prominence at Red Bull Salzburg, where his standout performances earned him a move to the English Premier League with Southampton in 2014. Mané’s dynamic playing style quickly captured attention, and he further elevated his career by joining Liverpool in 2016.

At Liverpool, Mané played a pivotal role in the club’s successes, contributing significantly to their UEFA Champions League triumph in 2019 and their first-ever Premier League title in 2020. His lethal partnership with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino formed Liverpool’s formidable attacking trio, known as “The Holy Trinity.” Individually, Mané received accolades such as the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and the Premier League Golden Boot for his goal-scoring exploits during the 2018-2019 season. Beyond his on-field achievements, Sadio Mané is admired for his philanthropy, including significant contributions to the development of his hometown in Senegal, reflecting his impact both as a football star and a positive force off the pitch.

Kylian Mbappé

• Year of Birth: 1998
• Country of Birth: France
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

Kylian Mbappé, the Paris Saint-Germain striker and captain of the French national team, has firmly established himself as one of the top contenders for The Best – FIFA Player of the Year 2023 award. Celebrating a remarkable milestone in his career, Mbappé recently notched a hat-trick in a match, bringing his total career goals to an impressive 300. In an interview with TF1 after the match, Mbappé, ever-humble, downplayed the achievement, considering it merely a step in his ongoing journey of improvement. With 46 goals for the national team and 254 for his clubs, he acknowledged the significance of the 300-goal mark while emphasizing the need to keep evolving and enhancing his performance both at the club and national levels.

Over the past 12 months, Kylian Mbappé has solidified his status among football’s elite, assuming the role of France’s captain, becoming Paris Saint-Germain’s all-time leading scorer and earning the Ligue 1 Player of the Year title for the fourth consecutive season. Despite facing contractual uncertainties and a temporary absence from the first team due to a standoff with his club, Mbappé’s return showcased his prolific goal-scoring ability, averaging more than a goal per game in the league. As another contractual standoff looms and the prospect of his participation in the Olympics arises, Mbappé’s journey continues to captivate, potentially culminating in a farewell from his home city with an Olympic appearance.

Kevin De Bruyne

• Year of Birth: 1991
• Country of Birth: Belgium
• Role: Midfielder
• Football Club: Manchester City

In the 2022-23 season, Kevin De Bruyne showcased his influential role for Manchester City, contributing significantly to their success. He played a crucial part in a pivotal match against Arsenal, scoring a brace and providing an assist in a 4-1 victory that narrowed the gap in the league table. De Bruyne continued his remarkable performance in the Champions League semi-finals, scoring the equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid. Despite a setback in the final with a hamstring injury, he played a role in Manchester City’s triumph over Inter Milan, securing their continental treble.

De Bruyne’s outstanding contributions earned him a nomination for the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award alongside Lionel Messi and teammate Erling Haaland. The 2023-24 season, however, started on a challenging note for De Bruyne as he suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury in the opening league game, leading to a four to five-month absence. Amidst these challenges, De Bruyne took on a new responsibility as Belgium’s captain, marked by a notable performance against Germany, where he scored a goal and provided two assists in a historic 3-2 away win.

Mohamed Salah

• Year of Birth: 1992
• Country of Birth: Egypt
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Liverpool

Mohamed Salah’s impactful journey with Liverpool continued in the 2022-23 season, marked by significant milestones and records. Salah extended his contract with Liverpool, becoming the highest-paid player. His remarkable goal-scoring prowess was evident in various competitions, from the FA Community Shield victory against Manchester City to a historic Champions League hat-trick against Rangers. Salah surpassed Kenny Dalglish on Liverpool’s all-time top scorers’ list and emerged as the top goalscorer in European competitions for the club.

Notably, he became Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League and achieved the feat of scoring in nine successive games at Anfield. Despite narrowly missing UEFA Champions League qualification, Salah garnered widespread acclaim for his exceptional performances. In the 2023-24 season, Salah rejected a lucrative offer from Al-Ittihad, reaffirming his commitment to Liverpool. Adopting a playmaker role, Salah continued his prolific form, scoring his 200th and 201st league goals against Everton and breaking Thierry Henry’s record as the highest-scoring Premier League player in European competitions. Salah’s impact extended to international play, securing his 50th goal for Egypt and becoming the country’s highest goalscorer in World Cup qualification matches with a four-goal display against Djibouti.

Top 7 Best Football Players In 2023

In this section, we have collected the players who turned out to be the best in 2023. These are mostly young talents who have not yet achieved the status of a world-class legend (like Ronaldo). But those who have every chance of achieving this.

Erling Haaland

• Year of Birth: 2000
• Country of Birth: Norway
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Manchester City F.C. 

In 2023, Erling Haaland emerged as a football phenomenon, dominating headlines and establishing himself as the No. 1 player in the world. Signed by Manchester City to fill the void left by Sergio Agüero, Haaland’s impact was immediate and monumental. Aged just 23, he shattered records with a staggering goal-scoring spree, notching an unprecedented 36 goals in 35 Premier League appearances, setting a new league record. His prolific season, which concluded with a total of 52 goals, marked a historic achievement, breaking records untouched since 1995 and propelling him to the 12th spot on Manchester City’s all-time top scorer list.

Haaland’s influence extended beyond domestic competitions, showcasing his prowess on the grand stage of the UEFA Champions League. In this elite tournament, he demonstrated exceptional scoring prowess, amassing 40 goals in 35 games, a feat that places him just one goal behind Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero, achieved in significantly fewer matches. Haaland’s prolific performances were instrumental in City’s triumphant Champions League campaign, where they secured the elusive European trophy. His adaptability, from ruthless finishes inside the box to creative contributions for his teammates, highlighted a remarkable evolution, making Erling Haaland an unparalleled force in the footballing world in 2023.

Jude Bellingham

• Year of Birth: 2003
• Country of Birth: England
• Role: Midfielder
• Football Club: Real Madrid

In 2023, Jude Bellingham, the 20-year-old English midfielder, emerged as the recipient of the prestigious Golden Boy award, a testament to his exceptional talent as the world’s brightest football prospect under the age of 21. Bellingham’s journey began when he left Birmingham for Borussia Dortmund in 2020, where he quickly blossomed into one of Europe’s finest midfield talents. His remarkable performances caught the attention of Real Madrid, leading to a high-profile move in June 2023. Despite the transition, Bellingham expressed gratitude to Borussia Dortmund, emphasizing the lasting impact of his time with the club.

Bellingham’s accomplishments are highlighted by his role as the third-youngest player to captain a Champions League side, achieving the feat in October 2022 during Dortmund’s 4-1 victory against Sevilla. He further etched his name in the competition’s history by becoming the youngest captain to score in a Champions League fixture. Notably, in the 2022/23 season, Bellingham scored in each of his first four Champions League appearances, joining the ranks of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland as only the third teenager to achieve such a feat. His dynamic contributions extended to the domestic front, where he was named the Bundesliga Player of the Season despite Dortmund narrowly missing out on the title in the 2022/23 season.

Upon his move to Real Madrid, Bellingham seamlessly transitioned into the team, becoming the fourth player in the 21st century to score on both his La Liga and Champions League debut for the club. His impactful performances included scoring a crucial equalizer and the winning goal in his first Clásico against Barcelona, a 2-1 success on October 28, 2023. Bellingham’s exceptional achievements were further recognized as he secured the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the world’s top U21 player, affirming his commitment to contributing to the success of both Real Madrid and the England national team.

Harry Kane

• Year of Birth: 1993
• Country of Birth: England
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Bayern Munich

In a transformative 2023, Harry Kane made headlines as the most expensive signing in Bundesliga history, joining Bayern Munich for a staggering €110 million. Before this move, Kane concluded his final season at Tottenham Hotspur remarkably. Breaking records, he became Tottenham’s all-time top scorer, surpassing Jimmy Greaves with 270 goals, including 200 in the Premier League. Kane’s goal-scoring prowess extended to the 2022/23 Premier League season, where he secured the remarkable feat of being the first player to score 30 goals in two separate 38-game seasons, finishing second only to Erling Haaland. Despite a contractual standoff with Tottenham and reported interest from Real Madrid, Kane eventually transferred to Bayern Munich in August 2023 for a reported fee exceeding €100 million, embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career.

In his debut season with Bayern Munich, the 2023-24 campaign, Kane wasted no time making a significant impact. He scored his first goal for the club on the opening day of the Bundesliga season, contributing to a 4-0 victory over Werder Bremen. Kane’s prolific goal-scoring continued, marking several milestones, including his 300th career club goal in a draw against Bayer Leverkusen.

Notably, he achieved a hat-trick in a 7-0 victory against VfL Bochum, setting a new club record for most goals by a player in his first five Bundesliga appearances. Kane’s goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga continued with impressive records, including becoming the top-scoring Englishman in a single season, surpassing Kevin Keegan and Jadon Sancho. His achievements also extended to the international stage, where he became England’s all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing Wayne Rooney’s record with a remarkable goal rate of 0.7 goals per game.

Rodri

• Year of Birth: 1996
• Country of Birth: Spain
• Role: Midfielder
• Football Club: Manchester City

In a stellar 2023 season, Spain’s Rodri solidified his status as a football powerhouse, earning acclaim as the 2023 UEFA Nations League Player of the Finals. Notably, Rodri played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s historic UEFA Champions League triumph, scoring the decisive goal in the final against Inter Milan and earning the coveted title of the tournament’s MVP. The Spanish midfielder showcased his versatility by seamlessly transitioning from the club’s continental triumph to donning the Spain jersey for the Nations League campaign. In this international competition, Rodri’s outstanding performances continued, with notable achievements such as being named Man of the Match in two out of three finals, including the decisive encounter against Italy where he displayed both defensive prowess and a scoring touch, contributing to Spain’s Nations League victory.

Rodri’s journey in 2023 highlighted his evolution into one of the world’s premier defensive midfielders. Beyond his international success, he played a crucial role in Manchester City’s triumphant season, contributing to their continental treble. His significance was further underscored by his first Champions League goal against Bayern Munich and the decisive match-winner against Inter Milan. Despite a brief setback with a red card in a Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, Rodri’s overall impact on both the club and international stages earned him recognition as a finalist for The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023 Award, underscoring his consistent excellence and pivotal role in Manchester City’s formidable lineup alongside other standout players.

Vinícius Júnior

• Year of Birth: 2000
• Country of Birth: Brazil
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Real Madrid

In a dynamic football journey, Vinícius made a resounding impact in the 2022-23 season for Real Madrid and beyond. The Brazilian forward played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s victory in the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup final, scoring a brace and earning the tournament’s best player award. His standout performances continued in the UEFA Champions League, notably contributing two crucial first-half goals in Real Madrid’s comeback win against Liverpool in the round of 16.

Despite a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the semi-final against Manchester City, Vinícius showcased his talent with a remarkable long-range goal. However, Real Madrid’s journey for the Champions League title concluded with a 4-0 defeat in the second leg. In the aftermath of Eden Hazard’s departure, Vinícius assumed the iconic No. 7 jersey for Real Madrid in the 2023-24 season, signifying a significant role in the team. His contributions included a decisive goal in a La Liga match against Almería, and despite a brief injury, Vinícius made a triumphant return, scoring in the Champions League against Napoli. Real Madrid extended his contract until 2027, reflecting the club’s confidence in his prowess. Renowned figures, including Neymar, lauded Vinícius, with FourFourTwo ranking him as the second-best left-winger globally, cementing his status as a rising star in world football.

Victor Osimhen

• Year of Birth: 1998
• Country of Birth: Nigeria
• Role: Forward
• Football Club: Napoli

In the 2022-23 season, Victor Osimhen delivered outstanding performances for Napoli, contributing significantly to their success. Notably, on January 13, 2023, he played a pivotal role by scoring two goals and assisting another in Napoli’s impressive 5-1 victory over Juventus. Osimhen continued his goal-scoring spree, reaching a milestone of 100 career goals on February 17 in a 2-0 win against Sassuolo, simultaneously setting a Napoli record by scoring in seven consecutive league games. In the Champions League round of 16 against Eintracht Frankfurt, Osimhen’s three goals over two legs contributed to Napoli’s 5-0 aggregate victory, securing their qualification to the quarter-finals for the first time.

His crucial equalizer against Udinese on May 4 confirmed Napoli as Serie A champions after 33 years, with Osimhen ending the season as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals. This achievement also made him the joint-highest-scoring African in Serie A, alongside George Weah. Osimhen extended his contract with Napoli until 2026 on December 23, 2023, with a new release clause set at €130 million. Additionally, in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers, Osimhen showcased his goal-scoring prowess for Nigeria, finishing as the top scorer with 10 goals, including two international hat-tricks, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s victories in the tournament.

Bernardo Silva

• Year of Birth: 1994
• Country of Birth: Portugal
• Role: Midfielder
• Football Club: Manchester City

During the recent season, Bernardo Silva underwent a remarkable transformation from primarily providing width on the right for Manchester City to becoming the ultimate utility player. Despite being functionally positioned as a central midfielder, he displayed versatility by spending time at both center forward, where he scored against Manchester United and defensive midfield. His adaptability was showcased with a notable contribution of 13 goals and 7 assists in all competitions. On May 17, 2023, Silva played a pivotal role, scoring a brace in a 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg, securing Manchester City’s qualification to their second-ever Champions League final.

In the final against Inter Milan on June 10, he provided a crucial assist to Rodri, leading to the match-winning goal and securing Manchester City’s historic first Champions League trophy, completing a continental treble. Silva’s outstanding performances earned him a place in the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League team of the tournament. On August 23, 2023, he extended his contract until 2026. In October 2022, Silva was named in Portugal’s preliminary 55-man squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and made appearances in all of Portugal’s matches during the tournament, which concluded with a quarter-final exit to Morocco, marking the latter’s historic advancement to the semi-finals as the first CAF nation to achieve this feat.

The Best Football Players In All Time

Each name on this list represents more than just individual brilliance; they embody eras, redefine playing styles, and leave an indelible imprint on the sport’s very essence. Their achievements resonate far beyond statistics and trophies, as they are the architects of unforgettable moments and the custodians of football’s timeless allure. In exploring the narratives of these football legends, we delve into the rich tapestry of a sport that, through their contributions, has become a global phenomenon and an integral part of our collective cultural heritage.

Pelé (Brazil):

• Year of Birth: 1940
• Years of Active Career: 1956–1977

Achievements: Three-time FIFA World Cup champion (1958, 1962, 1970), scored over 1,000 career goals, and won multiple domestic titles with Santos and New York Cosmos. 

Pelé’s importance to football history is unparalleled, as he not only personifies the artistry and joy of the game but also boasts an exceptional record, winning three World Cups and achieving remarkable goal-scoring feats. His influence transcends eras, making him a symbol of football’s global appeal and magic.

Diego Maradona (Argentina):

• Year of Birth: 1960
• Years of Active Career: 1976–1997

Achievements: Led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup, renowned for the ‘Hand of God’ and the ‘Goal of the Century’ in the same tournament.

Maradona’s impact on football history is immortalized by his mesmerizing skill, leadership, and the iconic moments that defined his career. From single-handedly guiding Argentina to World Cup glory to leaving an indelible mark with his extraordinary talents, Maradona is a legend whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

Johan Cruyff (Netherlands):

• Year of Birth: 1947
• Years of Active Career: 1964–1984

Achievements: Three-time Ballon d’Or winner, a key figure in Ajax’s three consecutive European Cup victories (1971–1973), influential as a player and later as a coach. 

Johan Cruyff’s significance lies not only in his mastery of the field but also in his revolutionary influence on the tactical and philosophical aspects of the game. As a player, coach, and visionary, Cruyff’s imprint on football history endures through the enduring principles of ‘Total Football’ and his role in shaping modern football ideologies.

Franz Beckenbauer (Germany):

• Year of Birth: 1945
• Years of Active Career: 1964–1983

Achievements: Two-time FIFA World Cup winner as a player (1974) and coach (1990), UEFA European Championship winner (1972), won multiple Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich.

Beckenbauer, known as “Der Kaiser,” is a linchpin in football history, having excelled as a player and coach. His elegant style of play, leadership on the pitch, and tactical acumen contributed to Germany’s footballing success. Beckenbauer’s legacy extends beyond his playing days, making him a revered figure in the sport’s annals.

Alfredo Di Stéfano (Argentina/Spain):

• Year of Birth: 1926
• Years of Active Career: 1945–1966

Achievements: Five-time Ballon d’Or nominee, led Real Madrid to five consecutive European Cup titles (1956–1960), scored over 400 career goals.

Di Stéfano’s impact on football history is epitomized by his versatility, leadership, and pivotal role in Real Madrid’s dominance during the 1950s and 1960s. His influence reached beyond borders, shaping the landscape of European football and setting a standard for excellence that transcended nationalities.

Zinedine Zidane (France):

• Year of Birth: 1972
• Years of Active Career: 1988–2006

Achievements: Won the FIFA World Cup with France (1998), two-time UEFA European Championship winner (2000), and three-time FIFA World Player of the Year. 

Zidane’s importance in football history lies in his ability to orchestrate moments of brilliance on the grandest stages. His artistry with the ball, vision, and leadership propelled France to international success. Zidane’s legacy is etched in the collective memory of fans worldwide, defining an era with his extraordinary skills.

Michel Platini (France):

• Year of Birth: 1955
• Years of Active Career: 1972–1987

Achievements: Three-time Ballon d’Or winner, led France to victory in the UEFA European Championship (1984), prolific scorer and playmaker. 

Michel Platini’s mark on football history is characterized by his elegant playmaking, goal-scoring prowess, and leadership. As a captain of the French national team and a key figure in Juventus’ success, Platini’s influence is embedded in the rich tapestry of European football, leaving an enduring legacy.

George Best (Northern Ireland):

• Year of Birth: 1946
• Years of Active Career: 1963–1984

Achievements: Won the English First Division title with Manchester United (1967), Ballon d’Or winner in 1968, renowned for his flair and dribbling ability. 

George Best’s importance to football history lies in his status as a footballing maverick. Renowned for his flair, creativity, and goal-scoring ability, Best captured the imagination of fans globally. His impact transcended the pitch, symbolizing the free-spirited and glamorous side of the beautiful game.

Ferenc Puskás (Hungary):

• Year of Birth: 1927
• Years of Active Career: 1943–1966

Achievements: Captained Hungary’s “Golden Team,” scored over 700 career goals, and won three European Cups with Real Madrid.

Puskás’ significance in football history is defined by his prolific goal-scoring record and leadership on the pitch. A legendary figure for both Hungary and Real Madrid, he played a pivotal role in the development of attacking football. Puskás remains an enduring symbol of footballing excellence.

Bobby Charlton (England):

• Year of Birth: 1937
• Years of Active Career: 1956–1975

Achievements: Won the FIFA World Cup with England (1966), Manchester United’s all-time leading goal scorer, played a key role in the club’s European Cup victory in 1968.

Bobby Charlton’s importance to football history is underscored by his instrumental role in England’s only World Cup triumph in 1966 and his prolific career with Manchester United. As a goal-scoring midfielder, Charlton’s contributions spanned decades, leaving an indelible legacy in English and European football.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of football is graced by a constellation of exceptional talents, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history. From prolific goal-scorers and creative playmakers to midfield maestros and defensive stalwarts, these players have shaped the beautiful game with their skill, dedication, and achievements. The annual Ballon d’Or ceremonies stand testament to the fierce competition among these footballing giants, as they vie for recognition as the best player on the planet. Beyond individual accolades, these athletes contribute to the success of their respective clubs and national teams, lifting trophies and etching their names in football lore. As the sport evolves, the narratives of these players continue to captivate fans worldwide, showcasing the enduring magic and universal appeal of the world’s most beloved game.

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