Top 35 Best Footballers in The World of All Time

Lionel Messi Best Footballer In The World ©(@TheEuropeanLa) Twitter

A top football player embodies the pinnacle of skill, strategy, and athleticism in the sport. Their importance extends beyond just scoring goals or making assists; they often become the central figures around whom a team’s tactics revolve. Such players can inspire and elevate their teammates, influence the outcome of crucial matches, and attract global attention. Their ability to perform under pressure and their consistent excellence set them apart as key assets for both their clubs and national teams. The presence of a standout player often defines a team’s success and resonates with fans, enhancing the overall appeal and excitement of football.

Who is the best soccer player in the world?

Determining who is the best soccer player in the world is a subjective debate, often centered around Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi, known for his extraordinary dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability, has won seven Ballon d’Or awards and achieved numerous records with Barcelona and Argentina. Ronaldo, celebrated for his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and versatility, has five Ballon d’Or awards and a record-breaking career across multiple top European clubs.

However, the emergence of younger talents like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland has intensified the debate. Mbappé’s speed, technical skill, and World Cup victory with France mark him as a future star. Haaland’s incredible goal-scoring rate and physical dominance make him another strong contender. Ultimately, the title of the best player varies depending on individual preferences and the criteria used, but Messi and Ronaldo remain the most iconic figures in modern football.

Top 35 Best Footballers in the World 2024

Here’s an in-depth look at the 35 best footballers in the world, with a detailed description of each player’s unique qualities and contributions to the sport.

1. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is often regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. His extraordinary dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability have made him a football legend. Lionel Messi’s ability to change the course of a game with a single touch or pass is unmatched. He spent over two decades at FC Barcelona, where he won numerous titles, including 10 La Liga and four UEFA Champions League trophies. His seven Ballon d’Or awards are a testament to his consistent brilliance. In 2021, Messi added an international trophy to his resume by leading Argentina to victory in the Copa América. Now at Inter Miami, Messi continues to influence the game on a global scale.
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2. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most prolific goal-scorers in football history. His physical prowess, combined with incredible technical ability, has made him a dominant force in every league he’s played in. Ronaldo’s career has seen him succeed at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr, winning league titles in England, Spain, and Italy. He has won five Ballon d’Or awards and is the all-time directing goal scorer in the UEFA Champions League. Ronaldo’s work ethic, versatility, and knack for scoring in crucial moments set him apart from his peers. His impact on the game extends beyond the pitch, making him a global icon.
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3. Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé is widely regarded as the future of football. The French forward’s explosive speed, technical skills, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most exciting players to watch. Mbappé burst onto the scene with AS Monaco before making a high-profile shift to Paris Saint-Germain, where he has continued to excel. He played a important role in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup victory, becoming the second teenage after Pelé to score in a World Cup final. Mbappé’s ability to change games with his pace and creativity has already earned him numerous accolades, and he is seen as a future Ballon d’Or winner.
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4. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski is known for his incredible goal-scoring consistency. The Polish striker has been a dominant force in European football, particularly during his time at Bayern Munich. Lewandowski’s ability to score from almost any position, combined with his physical strength and intelligence, makes him one of the most feared forwards in the world. In the 2020-2021 season, he broke Gerd Müller’s long-standing Bundesliga record for most goals in a single season. Lewandowski has also won multiple league titles, the UEFA Champions League, and has been named FIFA Best Men’s Player. His move to Barcelona has only added to his legacy as one of the best strikers of his generation.
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5. Kevin De Bruyne

Kevin De Bruyne is regarded one of the best playmakers in the world. The Belgian midfielder is known for his outstanding vision, passing accuracy, & ability to dictate the tempo of a match. De Bruyne has been a important participant for Manchester City, helping them win multiple Premier League titles & reach the UEFA Champions League final. His versatility allows him to play in various midfield roles, and his knack for scoring long-range goals adds another dimension to his game. De Bruyne’s intelligence on the field and his ability to deliver precise passes in tight spaces make him a nightmare for defenders. His influence on the game continues to grow as he consistently performs at the highest level.
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6. Neymar Jr.

Neymar Jr. is known for his flair, originality, and exceptional dribbling skills. The Brazilian ahead of time has been a key player for Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazilian national team, where his ability to produce moments of magic has made him one of the most entertaining players to watch. Neymar’s career has seen him win numerous league titles, domestic cups, and a UEFA Champions League with Barcelona. His skill set includes not only his dribbling but also his ability to score from free-kicks, his vision, and his playmaking ability. Despite facing several injuries throughout his career, Neymar remains one of the top talents in world football, capable of turning a game on its head with his brilliance.

7. Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah has become one of the most lethal forwards in European football since joining Liverpool. The Egyptian winger is known for his incredible pace, dribbling, and finishing ability, which have helped him become a consistent goal-scorer in the Premier League. Salah played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s 2019 UEFA Champions League triumph and their 2020 Premier League title win, ending a 30-year drought for the club. His ability to score in essential moments, combined with his work ethic and resolve, has made him a fan favorite at Anfield. Salah’s influence extends beyond the pitch, as he is also a national hero in Egypt, inspiring a generation of young footballers.

8. Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema has been one of the most consistent and underrated forwards in world football. The French striker has been a important player for Real Madrid for over a decade, contributing to the club’s multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. Benzema is known for his intelligence on the field, his ability to link up play, and his clinical finishing. After Cristiano Ronaldo departed from Real Madrid, Benzema stepped up as the team’s primary goal scorer, leading them to further success, including the 2022 Champions League victory. His performances have earned him individual accolades, including the 2022 Ballon d’Or, further solidifying his place among the elite players in football history.

9. Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk is widely considered as one of the best center-backs in the world. The Dutch defender’s combination of physical strength, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball has made him a key player for Liverpool. Van Dijk’s arrival at Anfield transformed Liverpool’s defense, helping them secure the 2019 UEFA Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title. His leadership on the field and ability to read the game make him a important asset to any team. Van Dijk’s performances have earned him numerous individual awards, and he is often praised for his ability to remain calm under pressure, making him one of the most respected defenders in the game.

10. Sadio Mané

Sadio Mané is known for his incredible work rate, speed, and goal-scoring ability. The Senegalese forward has been a key player for Liverpool, contributing to their success in both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. Mané’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, and his ability to press opponents and create chances has made him a crucial part of Jürgen Klopp’s system. In addition to his club success, Mané has also been a standout performer for the Senegal national team, leading them to their first Africa Cup of Nations title in 2022. His humility and dedication on and off the pitch have made him a beloved figure among fans.

11. Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland is one of the most thrilling young talents in world football. The Norwegian striker is known for his incredible physicality, speed, and goal-scoring instinct. Haaland burst onto the scenario with Red Bull Salzburg before making a high-profile move to Borussia Dortmund, where he continued to score goals at an astounding rate. His ability to find the back of the net from almost any position, combined with his strength and composure, has made him one of the most feared forwards in Europe. In 2022, Haaland joined Manchester City, where he has continued to excel, breaking numerous goal-scoring records and establishing himself as one of the best strikers in the world.

12. Luka Modrić

Luka Modrić is a midfield maestro known for his vision, obtaining accuracy, and ability to control the tempo of a game. The Croatian midfielder has been a important player for Real Madrid, helping them win multiple UEFA Champions League titles and La Liga championships. Modrić’s ability to dictate play from deep positions, combined with his intelligence and technical skills, makes him one of the most complete midfielders in the world. In 2018, he won the Ballon d’Or, breaking the decade-long dominance of Messi and Ronaldo. Modrić also led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, further solidifying his status as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

13. Joshua Kimmich

Joshua Kimmich is one of the most adaptable and intelligent players in world football. The German midfielder is known for his exceptional work rate, passing ability, and tactical awareness. Kimmich’s versatility allows him to play in various positions, including right-back and defensive midfield, making him a important player for both Bayern Munich & the German national team. His leadership qualities & ability to read the game have earned him comparisons to legendary midfielders like Philipp Lahm. Kimmich has won multiple Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League with Bayern, and he continues to be a driving force in their midfield.

14. Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes has become one of the most influential midfielders in the Premier League since joining Manchester United. The Portuguese playmaker is known for his creativity, vision, and goal-scoring ability, which have made him a key player at Old Trafford. Fernandes’ ability to deliver precise passes, take on defenders, and score from set pieces has earned him numerous individual accolades. His impact on Manchester United has been significant, helping them compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions. Fernandes’ leadership and passion on the field have also made him a fan favorite, and he continues to be one of the top midfielders in world football.

15. Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos is one of the most successful and influential defenders in football history. The Spanish center-back is known for his physicality, aerial ability, and leadership on the field. Ramos spent the majority of his career at Real Madrid, where he won numerous La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles. His knack for scoring important goals, especially in big games, has made him one of the most feared defenders in the world. Ramos’ leadership qualities have also been evident in his role as captain for both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, where he led Spain to victory in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two UEFA European Championships.

16. Jan Oblak

Jan Oblak is widely thought of as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. The Slovenian shot-stopper has been a key player for Atlético Madrid, where his exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, & command of the penalty area have earned him numerous accolades. Oblak’s consistency and ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations have made him one of the most reliable goalkeepers in Europe. He has won multiple Zamora Trophies for the best goalkeeper in La Liga and played a crucial role in Atlético’s 2020-2021 La Liga title win. Oblak’s calmness under pressure and leadership at the back make him a vital asset for both club and country.

17. Alisson Becker

Alisson Becker is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. The Brazilian shot-stopper has been a crucial part of Liverpool’s success, helping them win the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. Alisson is known for his exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and distribution, which make him an integral part of Liverpool’s build-up play. His ability to make crucial saves in one-on-one situations and his command of the penalty area has earned him numerous individual accolades, including the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper in the world. Alisson’s influence extends beyond his goalkeeping, as he is also known for his leadership and composure on the field.

18. Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut Courtois is one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in world football. The Belgian shot-stopper is known for his incredible reflexes, shot-stopping ability, & command of the penalty area. Courtois has been a key player for Real Madrid, helping them win multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. His performances in the 2021-2022 season, particularly in the Champions League, earned him widespread acclaim, as he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s 14th European title. Courtois’ ability to make decisive saves in essential moments has made him one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the world.

19. Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos is one of the most technically gifted midfielders in world football. The German playmaker is known for his exceptional passing accuracy, vision, & ability to dictate the tempo of a game. Kroos has been a important player for Real Madrid, where he has won multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. His ability to deliver precise passes, control the midfield, and take on defensive duties makes him one of the most complete midfielders in the game. Kroos’ intelligence on the field and his ability to perform in big matches have earned him numerous individual accolades, and he continues to be a vital part of Real Madrid’s success.

20. Romelu Lukaku

Romelu Lukaku is one of the most powerful and prolific strikers in world football. The Belgian forward is known for his physical strength, speed, and goal-scoring ability. Lukaku has enjoyed success at various clubs, including Inter Milan, where he played a important role in their 2020-2021 Serie A title win. His ability to score from almost any position, combined with his intelligence and work rate, makes him one of the most feared forwards in Europe. Lukaku’s performances for the Belgian national team have also been outstanding, as he has become their all-time leading goal scorer. His return to Chelsea in 2021 further cemented his status as one of the top strikers in the world.

21. Harry Kane

Harry Kane is one of the most complete forwards in world football. The English striker is known for his exceptional finishing, positioning, and ability to create chances for his teammates. Kane has been the focal point of Tottenham Hotspur’s attack for several years, consistently scoring goals and providing assists at a high level. His ability to score with both feet, his aerial prowess, and his vision make him a versatile and dangerous forward. Kane’s performances for the England national team have also been outstanding, as he won the Golden Boot at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Despite not yet winning a major trophy, Kane’s brilliance continues to be recognized as one of the best in the world.

22. N’Golo Kanté

N’Golo Kanté is widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. The French midfielder is known for his incredible work rate, tackling ability, and intelligence on the field. Kanté played a crucial role in Leicester City’s historic Premier League title win in 2015-2016 before moving to Chelsea, where he has continued to excel. His performances in Chelsea’s 2021 UEFA Champions League triumph earned him widespread acclaim, as he was instrumental in their success. Kanté’s ability to cover ground, break up opposition attacks, and start counter-attacks makes him one of the most valuable players in world football.

23. Son Heung-min

Son Heung-min is one of the most exciting and versatile forwards in world football. The South Korean forward is known for his incredible speed, dribbling, and finishing ability. Son has been a key player for Tottenham Hotspur, where his ability to score and create chances from various positions has made him a fan favorite. His partnership with Harry Kane has been one of the most productive in the Premier League, with the duo consistently contributing goals and assists. Son’s performances for the South Korean national team have also been outstanding, as he led them to the 2018 Asian Games gold medal. His work ethic, humility, and consistency make him one of the best forwards in the game.

24. Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling is known for his incredible pace, dribbling, and ability to score goals from various positions. The English forward has been a key player for both Manchester City and the England national team. Sterling played a crucial role in Manchester City’s multiple Premier League titles, where his ability to stretch defenses and create chances has been invaluable. His performances for England in the 2020 UEFA European Championship, where he was one of the exceptional players, further solidified his status as one of the top forwards in world football. Sterling’s versatility and ability to perform in big matches make him a vital asset for any team.

25. Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba is one of the most talented and versatile midfielders in world football. The French midfielder is known for his physicality, vision, & ability to score goals from midfield. Pogba has enjoyed success at Juventus, where he won multiple Serie A titles, and at Manchester United, where he has been a key player in their midfield. His performances for the French national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their 2018 FIFA World Cup victory. Pogba’s ability to control the midfield, deliver precise passes, and contribute defensively makes him one of the most complete midfielders in the game.

26. Antoine Griezmann

Antoine Griezmann is one of the most creative and intelligent forwards in world football. The French forward is known for his ability to find space, link up play, and score goals from various positions. Griezmann has enjoyed success at both Atlético Madrid and FC Barcelona, where his versatility and work rate have made him a key player. His performances for the French national team have been exceptional, as he played a crucial role in their 2018 FIFA World Cup victory. Griezmann’s ability to perform in big matches, combined with his vision and creativity, makes him one of the best forwards in the game.

27. Eden Hazard

Eden Hazard is known for his incredible dribbling, creativity, and ability to change the course of a game with a single moment of brilliance. The Belgian forward has enjoyed success at Chelsea, where he won multiple Premier League titles, and at Real Madrid, where he has continued to showcase his talent. Hazard’s ability to take on defenders, deliver precise passes, and score goals from various positions makes him one of the most exciting players to watch. Despite struggling with injuries in recent years, Hazard’s talent and ability to produce moments of magic on the field make him one of the top forwards in world football.

28. Jadon Sancho

Jadon Sancho is one of the most gifted young individuals in world football. The English winger is known for his incredible dribbling, creativity, and ability to score and create goals. Sancho made a name for himself at Borussia Dortmund, where his performances earned him a high-profile move to Manchester United. His ability to take on defenders, deliver precise crosses, and score goals from various positions makes him one of the most exciting young players in the game. Sancho’s vision, intelligence, and flair on the field have made him a key player for both club and country, and he is seen as a future star in world football.

29. Phil Foden

Phil Foden is widely regarded as one of the most talented young players in world football. The English midfielder is known for his exceptional dribbling, vision, and ability to score goals from midfield. Foden has been an important player for Manchester City, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to take on defenders, deliver precise passes, and contribute defensively makes him one of the most complete young players in the game. Foden’s performances for the England national team have also been outstanding, and he is seen as a future star in world football.

30. Pedri

Pedri is one of the most promising young talents in world football. The Spanish midfielder is known for his outstanding vision, passing ability, & intelligence on the field. Pedri has been a key player for FC Barcelona, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to command the midfield, deliver precise passes, & contribute defensively makes him one of the most complete young players in the game. Pedri’s performances for the Spanish national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their run to the semifinals of the 2020 UEFA European Championship. Pedri is seen as a future star in world football.

31. Federico Chiesa

Federico Chiesa is one of the most exciting and dynamic young forwards in world football. The Italian winger is known for his incredible speed, dribbling, and ability to score goals from various positions. Chiesa has been a key player for Juventus, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to take on defenders, deliver precise crosses, and score goals from almost any position makes him one of the most exciting young players in the game. Chiesa’s performances for the Italian national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their victory at the 2020 UEFA European Championship.

32. Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka is one of the most promising young talents in world football. The English winger is known for his incredible dribbling, creativity, and ability to score and create goals. Saka has been a important player for Arsenal, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to take on defenders, deliver precise crosses, and score goals from various positions makes him one of the most exciting young players in the game. Saka’s performances for the England national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their run to the final of the 2020 UEFA European Championship. Saka is seen as a future star in world football.

33. Mason Mount

Mason Mount is one of the most talented young midfielders in world football. The English midfielder is known for his exceptional vision, passing ability, & intelligence on the field. Mount has been a important player for Chelsea, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to command the midfield, deliver precise passes, and contribute defensively makes him one of the most complete young players in the game. Mount’s performances for the England national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their run to the final of the 2020 UEFA European Championship. Mount is seen as a future star in world football.

34. Declan Rice

Declan Rice is one of the many promising young defensive midfielders in world football. The English midfielder is known for his incredible work rate, tackling ability, and intelligence on the field. Rice has been an important player for West Ham United, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to break up opposition attacks, control the midfield, and start counter-attacks makes him one of the most complete young players in the game. Rice’s performances for the England national team have also been outstanding, as he played a crucial role in their run to the final of the 2020 UEFA European Championship. Rice is seen as a future star in world football.

35. Eduardo Camavinga

Eduardo Camavinga is one of the most exciting young talents in world football. The French midfielder is known for his exceptional dribbling, passing ability, and intelligence on the field. Camavinga has been a key player for Real Madrid, where his performances have earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to command the midfield, deliver precise passes, and contribute defensively makes him one of the most complete young players in the game. Camavinga’s performances for the French national team have also been outstanding, and he is seen as a future star in world football.