10+ best soccer players of all time (Updated 2024)

Soccer is more than just a sport; it’s a global phenomenon that unites people across continents. The best soccer players of all time have left indelible marks on the game, becoming legends through their skill, dedication, and passion. But how do we determine the greatest? Is it their skill, the number of trophies, or the impact they’ve had on the game? Let’s explore.

Soccer, known as football outside of North America, is the world’s most popular sport. It is played by two teams of eleven players on a rectangular field with a goal at each end. The objective is to score by getting the ball into the opposing goal. Soccer is governed by a set of rules known as the Laws of the Game, which are maintained by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).

The Basics of Soccer

The Field

A standard soccer field, or pitch, is a rectangle between 100 and 130 yards long and 50 to 100 yards wide. It has a goal at each end, measuring 8 feet high and 8 yards wide. The field is marked with lines for the penalty area, goal area, and center circle.

The Ball

Soccer is played with a spherical ball, typically made of leather or another durable material. The standard size for adult play is a size 5 ball, which has a circumference of 27-28 inches and weighs 14-16 ounces.

Players and Positions

Each team has eleven players, including one goalkeeper. The other ten players are usually divided into defenders, midfielders, and forwards, each with specific roles on the field:

Goalkeeper: The only player allowed to use their hands, within the penalty area, to stop shots on goal.
Defenders: Positioned near their own goal to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
Midfielders: Play both defensive and offensive roles, often covering the most ground during a game.
Forwards: Primary attackers, responsible for scoring goals.

Gameplay

Starting the Game

A soccer match begins with a kickoff from the center circle. Teams try to maintain possession, advance the ball, and create scoring opportunities while defending against their opponent’s attacks.

Scoring

A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line between the goalposts and beneath the crossbar. Each goal is worth one point. The team with the most goals at the end of the match wins.

Duration

A standard soccer match consists of two 45-minute halves, with a 15-minute halftime interval. If the match is tied at the end of regulation, various tie-breaking methods may be used, such as extra time or penalty shootouts, depending on the competition rules.

The Rules of Soccer

Offside Rule

A player is offside if they are nearer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent when the ball is played to them, unless they are in their own half of the field. The offside rule prevents players from lingering near the opponent’s goal for easy scoring opportunities.

Fouls and Misconduct

Fouls are awarded for unfair play, such as tripping, pushing, or handling the ball (except by the goalkeeper within their area). Misconduct can result in yellow or red cards, indicating a caution or sending off, respectively.

Free Kicks and Penalties

Free kicks are awarded for fouls or infractions, and can be direct (can score directly) or indirect (must touch another player before scoring). Penalty kicks are awarded for fouls committed within the penalty area, giving a free shot from the penalty spot against the goalkeeper.

Top 10 best soccer players of all time

1. Pelé

Full Name: Edson Arantes do Nascimento
Date of Birth: October 23, 1940
Place of Birth: Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)
Position: Forward

Career Highlights:

Club Career: Pelé played for Santos FC in Brazil (1956-1974) and later for New York Cosmos in the NASL (1975-1977).
International Career: Represented Brazil national team (1957-1971), winning three FIFA World Cup titles in 1958, 1962, and 1970.
Total Goals: Scored over 1000 career goals, including unofficial and exhibition matches.
Achievements: Named FIFA World Cup Best Young Player in 1958 and awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament in 1970.

Notable Achievements:

Led Santos FC to numerous domestic and international titles, including consecutive Copa Libertadores in 1962 and 1963.
Scored a record-setting 1,283 goals in official matches during his career.
Recognized as one of the greatest footballers of all time for his exceptional dribbling, finishing, and athleticism.

Legacy:

Pelé’s influence extends beyond his playing career, serving as a global ambassador for football and humanitarian causes.
Inducted into the FIFA World Cup Dream Team in 2002 and named FIFA Player of the Century alongside Diego Maradona in 2000.

2. Diego Maradona

Full Name: Diego Armando Maradona
Date of Birth: October 30, 1960
Place of Birth: Lanús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Height: 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in)
Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder

Career Highlights:

Club Career: Maradona played for clubs including Argentinos Juniors (1976-1981), Boca Juniors (1981-1982), Barcelona (1982-1984), Napoli (1984-1991), Sevilla (1992-1993), and Newell’s Old Boys (1993-1994).
International Career: Represented Argentina national team (1977-1994), winning the FIFA World Cup in 1986 and reaching the final in 1990.
Notable Clubs: Led Napoli to their first-ever Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990.
Total Goals: Scored over 300 career goals for club and country.

Achievements:

FIFA World Cup 1986: Captained Argentina to victory, scoring the famous “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” against England in the quarter-finals.
Golden Ball: Awarded the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament in 1986.
Club Honors: Won domestic titles with Boca Juniors, Barcelona, and Napoli, becoming a cult figure at each club.

Legacy:

Maradona is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his exceptional dribbling, vision, and playmaking ability.
His impact on Napoli remains legendary, elevating the club to unprecedented success in Italian football.
Despite controversies and personal challenges, Maradona’s skill and charisma continue to inspire generations of football fans worldwide.

3. Lionel Messi

Full Name: Lionel Andrés Messi
Date of Birth: June 24, 1987
Place of Birth: Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
Position: Forward

Career Highlights:

Club Career: Messi spent his entire senior career at FC Barcelona (2000-2021) before moving to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021.
International Career: Represents Argentina national team (2004-present), winning the Copa America in 2021 and reaching multiple Copa America and FIFA World Cup finals.
Notable Achievements: Numerous records including most goals scored for FC Barcelona and Argentina national team.

Achievements:

Ballon d’Or: Seven-time Ballon d’Or winner (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021), the most in history.
Champions League: Four-time UEFA Champions League winner with FC Barcelona.
La Liga: Ten-time La Liga winner with FC Barcelona.
Olympic Gold Medal: Won Olympic gold with Argentina in 2008.

Legacy:

Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his exceptional dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring prowess.
His loyalty and impact at FC Barcelona, where he broke numerous records and led the team to unprecedented success, are unparalleled.
Messi’s ability to consistently deliver match-winning performances and his humility off the pitch have earned him admiration globally.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro
Date of Birth: February 5, 1985
Place of Birth: Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Height: 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in)
Position: Forward

Career Highlights:

Club Career: Ronaldo has played for Sporting CP (2002-2003), Manchester United (2003-2009), Real Madrid (2009-2018), Juventus (2018-2021), and returned to Manchester United in 2021.
International Career: Represents Portugal national team (2003-present), winning the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and UEFA Nations League in 2019.
Notable Achievements: Multiple records including most goals scored in UEFA Champions League history.

Achievements:

Ballon d’Or: Five-time Ballon d’Or winner (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017).
Champions League: Five-time UEFA Champions League winner with Manchester United and Real Madrid.
Domestic Titles: Won league titles in England, Spain, and Italy with his respective clubs.
Goal-Scoring Records: Holds numerous records for goals scored at club and international levels.

Legacy:

Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his athleticism, goal-scoring ability, and dedication to fitness.
His impact on the modern game includes setting new standards for physical conditioning and goal-scoring consistency.
Ronaldo’s marketability and global influence extend beyond football, making him one of the most recognizable athletes worldwide.

5. Johan Cruyff

Full Name: Hendrik Johannes Cruijff
Date of Birth: April 25, 1947
Place of Birth: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder

Career Highlights:

Club Career: Cruyff played for Ajax (1964-1973, 1981-1983), Barcelona (1973-1978), Los Angeles Aztecs (1979-1980), Washington Diplomats (1980-1981), and Levante (1981).
International Career: Represented Netherlands national team (1966-1977), reaching the FIFA World Cup final in 1974.
Notable Achievements: Three-time Ballon d’Or winner (1971, 1973, 1974).

Achievements:

Ajax Amsterdam: Won numerous Eredivisie titles and three consecutive European Cups (1971-1973).
FC Barcelona: Led Barcelona to their first La Liga title in 14 years in 1974 and laid the foundation for their future success.
Innovative Style: Pioneered the concept of “Total Football,” emphasizing fluidity, creativity, and attacking play.

Legacy:

Cruyff is regarded as one of the greatest footballers and influential figures in the history of the sport, known for his vision, technique, and tactical acumen.
His philosophy and playing style revolutionized football, influencing generations of players, coaches, and clubs worldwide.
The Johan Cruyff Foundation continues his legacy, promoting sports education and healthy lifestyles for children globally.

6. Franz Beckenbauer

Full Name: Franz Anton Beckenbauer
Date of Birth: September 11, 1945
Place of Birth: Munich, Germany
Height: Approximately 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in)
Position: Sweeper (Libero)

Playing Career:

Club Career:
Beckenbauer’s career was primarily associated with Bayern Munich, where he achieved tremendous success.
He later played for New York Cosmos in the NASL, contributing to the growth of football in the United States.
International Career:
Germany: Beckenbauer represented West Germany in 103 matches, notably leading the team to victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup as captain.

Managerial Career:

Following his playing career, Beckenbauer transitioned into coaching and management.
He coached various clubs and the German national team, achieving notable success, including guiding West Germany to the 1990 World Cup title as manager.

Achievements:

1. As a Player:

FIFA World Cup: Winner in 1974; Runner-up in 1966.
UEFA European Championship: Winner in 1972.
UEFA Champions League: Winner in 1974, 1975, and 1976 with Bayern Munich.

2. Individual Awards:

Ballon d’Or: Winner in 1972 and 1976.
FIFA World Cup Best Young Player Award: 1966.

Legacy:

Beckenbauer is revered for revolutionizing the sweeper position, known for his elegance, tactical acumen, and ability to initiate attacks from defense.
He continues to be celebrated as a football icon worldwide, with a lasting impact on the sport’s development and strategy.

7. Zinedine Zidane

Full Name: Zinedine Yazid Zidane
Date of Birth: June 23, 1972
Place of Birth: Marseille, France
Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position: Attacking Midfielder

Career Highlights:

1. Club Career:

AS Cannes (1989-1992): Zidane began his professional career at AS Cannes.
Girondins de Bordeaux (1992-1996): He moved to Bordeaux where he showcased his talents in Ligue 1.
Juventus (1996-2001): Zidane’s career reached new heights at Juventus, winning multiple Serie A titles.
Real Madrid (2001-2006): He joined Real Madrid, becoming a global superstar and winning numerous trophies.

2. International Career:

France National Team (1994-2006): Zidane represented France, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000.
Achievements: He played a key role in France’s 1998 World Cup triumph on home soil.

Notable Achievements:

Ballon d’Or: Winner in 1998.
World Cup: Winner with France in 1998; Runner-up in 2006.
UEFA European Championship: Winner with France in 2000.

Legacy:

Zidane is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, known for his exceptional technique, vision, and creativity.
His performances in major tournaments for France solidified his status as a football legend.
Zidane’s impact extends beyond his playing career, having achieved success as a coach, notably leading Real Madrid to multiple UEFA Champions League titles.

8. Michel Platini

Full Name: Michel François Platini
Date of Birth: June 21, 1955
Place of Birth: Jœuf, France
Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
Position: Attacking Midfielder

Career Highlights:

1. Club Career:

Nancy (1972-1979): Platini began his professional career at AS Nancy in France.
Saint-Étienne (1979-1982): He moved to AS Saint-Étienne, where he continued to excel in Ligue 1.
Juventus (1982-1987): Platini’s career peaked at Juventus, winning multiple Serie A titles and European trophies.

2. International Career:

France National Team (1976-1987): Platini represented France and captained them to victory in the UEFA European Championship in 1984.
Achievements: He led France to their first major international trophy and was a key player in their success during the 1980s.

Notable Achievements:

Ballon d’Or: Winner in 1983, 1984, and 1985.
UEFA European Championship: Winner with France in 1984.
Club Titles: Multiple domestic league and cup titles with Juventus.

Legacy:

Platini is revered for his exceptional playmaking ability, vision, and goal-scoring prowess from midfield.
He is considered one of the greatest midfielders of all time and was known for his intelligence on the pitch.
After retiring, Platini served in various administrative roles in football, including as the president of UEFA.

9. Ronaldo Nazário

Full Name: Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima
Date of Birth: September 18, 1976
Place of Birth: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Height: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Position: Forward

Career Highlights:

Club Career:

Cruzeiro (1993-1994): Ronaldo started his professional career at Cruzeiro in Brazil.
PSV Eindhoven (1994-1996): He moved to Europe and impressed at PSV, showcasing his goal-scoring abilities.
FC Barcelona (1996-1997): Ronaldo’s prolific scoring continued at Barcelona, where he gained global recognition.
Inter Milan (1997-2002): He joined Inter Milan and further solidified his reputation as one of the best strikers in the world.
Real Madrid (2002-2007): Ronaldo enjoyed success at Real Madrid, winning multiple trophies including the UEFA Champions League.
AC Milan (2007-2008): He later played for AC Milan before returning to Brazil to end his career.

International Career:

Brazil National Team (1994-2011): Ronaldo represented Brazil in multiple World Cups and is one of the country’s all-time leading goal scorers.
Achievements: He won the FIFA World Cup with Brazil in 1994 and 2002, playing a key role in both tournaments.

Notable Achievements:

FIFA World Cup: Winner with Brazil in 1994 and 2002.
Ballon d’Or: Winner in 1997 and 2002.
Golden Shoe: Winner for leading goal scorer in European leagues.

Legacy:

Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his explosive pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing.
He overcame serious injuries to return to the top of the game, showcasing resilience and determination.
Ronaldo’s impact on football extends beyond his playing career, influencing a generation of strikers with his style and achievements.

10. George Best

Full Name: George Best
Date of Birth: May 22, 1946
Place of Birth: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Career Highlights:

1. Club Career:

Manchester United (1963-1974): Best is best remembered for his time at Manchester United, where he became a global superstar.
Other Clubs: He had brief stints at several clubs after leaving Manchester United, including spells in the North American Soccer League (NASL) and other clubs in England.

2. International Career:

Northern Ireland National Team: Best represented Northern Ireland internationally, making 37 appearances and scoring 9 goals.

Notable Achievements:

Best was known for his incredible dribbling skills, balance, and ability to score spectacular goals.
He won the Ballon d’Or in 1968, recognizing him as the best player in Europe that year.
Best won numerous trophies with Manchester United, including the First Division title and the European Cup in 1968.

Legacy:

George Best is considered one of the most naturally gifted footballers of all time, known for his flair and creativity on the ball.
He was a cultural icon during the 1960s and 1970s, admired for his off-field charisma and style as much as his on-field talent.
Best’s career was unfortunately marred by personal struggles with alcoholism, which affected his later years and post-football life.

Conclusion

The debate over the greatest soccer players of all time will never be definitively settled. Each of these legends brought something unique to the game, leaving legacies that inspire future generations. Soccer continues to evolve, but the impact of these players will forever be remembered.

FAQs

Who is considered the greatest soccer player of all time?
- Opinions vary, but Pelé and Maradona are often mentioned as the top contenders.
Has any player won more than three World Cups?
- No, Pelé is the only player to have won three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970).
Who has scored the most goals in a single calendar year?
- Lionel Messi holds the record for most goals in a calendar year, scoring 91 goals in 2012.
Which player has won the most Ballon d’Or awards?
- Lionel Messi has won the most Ballon d’Or awards, with a total of seven.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo the top scorer in UEFA Champions League history?
- Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo is the all-time top scorer in UEFA Champions League history.