Best top football players of all time ranked

 

Best top football players of all time ranked

List of top 10 football players and football match 2023 who were considered among the top players globally. However, please note that the information may be outdated, and individual performances, awards, and achievements can change over time. For the most up-to-date information, I recommend checking the latest sports news and official football association websites. Here is a list of 10 football players, along with some details about their goals, cards, and trophies up to 2023:

1-Lionel Messi:

(Argentina/Paris Saint-German): Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Here are some key details about Lionel Messi:

• Full Name: Lionel Andrés Messi
• Date of Birth: June 24, 1987
• Place of Birth: Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.
• Previous Club: FC Barcelona (Messi spent the majority of his career at Barcelona before joining PSG in August 2021)

Career Highlights:

FC Barcelona (2003-2021):

Messi joined Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, at a young age.

He made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004 at the age of 17.

Messi played a crucial role in Barcelona's unprecedented success, winning numerous domestic and international titles.

With Barcelona, Messi won multiple UEFA Champions League titles, La Liga titles, FIFA Club World Cup, and Copa del Rey.

Individual Awards:

Messi has won the FIFA Ballon d'Or (now The Best FIFA Men's Player) multiple times, establishing himself as one of the greatest individual talents in football history.

He has received numerous other individual awards for his outstanding performances.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Messi is known for his prolific goal-scoring ability. He has consistently been one of the top goal-scorers in domestic and international competitions.

He set numerous records for the most goals in a calendar year and most goals in a European club season.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG):

Messi transferred to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in August 2021 after spending his entire professional career at Barcelona.

The move to PSG marked a significant change in Messi's career, joining forces with other star players like Neymar and Kylian Mbappé.

International Career:

Messi has represented the Argentine national team in multiple FIFA World Cups and Copa America tournaments.

He won his first major international trophy with Argentina in the 2021 Copa America, securing a historic victory over Brazil in the final.

Playing Style:

Messi is known for his incredible dribbling skills, agility, vision, and goal-scoring prowess.

He is often praised for his ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Lionel Messi's influence on the sport extends beyond his on-field performances, making him a global icon in football. 

2-Cristiano Ronaldo: 

(Portugal/Manchester United): Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of football. Here are some key details about Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro
• Date of Birth: February 5, 1985
• Place of Birth: Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Position: Forward
• Current Club:Manchester United, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Sporting Lisbon (2002–2003)

Manchester United (2003–2009)

Real Madrid (2009–2018)

Juventus (2018–2021)

Career Highlights:

Manchester United (2003-2009):

Ronaldo joined Manchester United in 2003 from Sporting Lisbon.

He played a crucial role in Manchester United's success, winning three English Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008.

Ronaldo won his first FIFA Ballon d'Or (now The Best FIFA Men's Player) in 2008 during his time at Manchester United.

Real Madrid (2009-2018):

In 2009, Ronaldo transferred to Real Madrid for a then-world record transfer fee.

He became Real Madrid's all-time leading goal-scorer and won numerous domestic and international titles, including four Champions League titles.

Ronaldo won four more Ballon d'Or awards during his time with Real Madrid.

Juventus (2018-2021):

Ronaldo joined Juventus in 2018, continuing to showcase his goal-scoring prowess in Serie A.

He won two Serie A titles during his time with Juventus.

Return to Manchester United (2021):

Ronaldo made a highly anticipated return to Manchester United in 2021.

International Career:

Ronaldo has represented Portugal in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.

He led Portugal to victory in the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Ronaldo is known for his incredible goal-scoring record and versatility on the field.

He has consistently been one of the top goal-scorers in the world throughout his career.

Individual Awards:

Ronaldo has won multiple individual awards, including five Ballon d'Or trophies as of my last knowledge update.

Physical Fitness and Work Ethic:

Ronaldo is renowned for his exceptional physical fitness, work ethic, and dedication to maintaining a high level of performance throughout his career.

3-Robert Lewandowski 

(Poland/Bayern Munich):Robert Lewandowski is a Polish professional footballer widely recognized as one of the best strikers in the world. Here are some key details about Robert Lewandowski:

• Full Name: Robert Lewandowski
• Date of Birth: August 21, 1988
• Place of Birth: Warsaw, Poland
• Position: Striker
• Current Club: Bayern Munich, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Znicz Pruszków (2006–2008)

Lech Poznań (2008–2010)

Borussia Dortmund (2010–2014)

Career Highlights:

Lech Poznań (2008–2010):

Lewandowski gained prominence during his time with Lech Poznań in the Polish top flight, Ekstraklasa.

Borussia Dortmund (2010–2014):

In 2010, Lewandowski joined Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga.

He played a key role in Dortmund's success, winning two Bundesliga titles and reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2013.

Bayern Munich:

Lewandowski transferred to Bayern Munich in 2014, and he has since become one of the club's all-time leading goal-scorers.

With Bayern Munich, he has won multiple Bundesliga titles and the UEFA Champions League.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Lewandowski is renowned for his prolific goal-scoring ability, both domestically and internationally.

He has consistently been among the top goal-scorers in the Bundesliga.

Individual Awards:

Lewandowski has received numerous individual awards for his performances, including being named the Bundesliga Player of the Season.

Record-Breaking Performances:

In September 2015, Lewandowski achieved a remarkable feat by scoring five goals in nine minutes for Bayern Munich in a Bundesliga match against VfL Wolfsburg. This performance set several records.

Physicality and Playing Style:

Lewandowski is known for his physicality, technical skills, and clinical finishing.

He is considered one of the most complete strikers in the world.

International Career:

Lewandowski has represented the Polish national team in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.

He is Poland's all-time leading goal-scorer and captain.

4-Neymar Jr.

 (Brazil/Paris Saint-Germain):Neymar Jr., whose full name is Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, is a Brazilian professional footballer known for his exceptional skill, flair, and goal-scoring ability. Here are some key details about Neymar Jr.:

• Full Name: Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior
• Date of Birth: February 5, 1992
• Place of Birth: Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Santos FC (2009–2013)

FC Barcelona (2013–2017)

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) (2017–Present, as of my last update)

Career Highlights:

Santos FC (2009–2013):

Neymar began his professional career with Santos FC in Brazil.

He won several domestic titles with Santos, including the Copa Libertadores.

FC Barcelona (2013–2017):

Neymar joined FC Barcelona in 2013, forming a formidable attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.

With Barcelona, he won numerous titles, including two La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2014-2015.

Neymar finished third in the Ballon d'Or voting in 2015.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) (2017–Present, as of my last update):

Neymar transferred to PSG in a record-breaking deal in 2017.

He has helped PSG secure multiple domestic titles, including Ligue 1 titles and domestic cup competitions.

Individual Awards:

Neymar is known for his individual accolades, including multiple nominations for the FIFA Ballon d'Or.

Playing Style:

Neymar is renowned for his skillful dribbling, creativity, flair, and goal-scoring ability.

His style of play often involves intricate dribbles and flashy skills that make him a fan favorite.

International Career:

Neymar has been a key figure for the Brazilian national team since his early career.

He has represented Brazil in multiple FIFA World Cups and Copa America tournaments.

Injuries and Comebacks:

Neymar has faced injuries at various points in his career, including missing crucial matches due to injuries.

Despite setbacks, he has made successful comebacks and continued to be a significant presence on the field.

5-Kylian Mbappé:

 (France/Paris Saint-Germain):Kylian Mbappé is a French professional footballer known for his incredible speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability. Here are some key details about Kylian Mbappé:

• Full Name: Kylian Mbappé Lottin
• Date of Birth: December 20, 1998
• Place of Birth: Bondy, Île-de-France, France
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

AS Monaco (2015–2017)

Career Highlights:

AS Monaco (2015–2017):

Kylian Mbappé began his professional career with AS Monaco in Ligue 1.

He played a pivotal role in helping Monaco win the Ligue 1 title during the 2016-2017 season.

Mbappé's performances attracted attention from top European clubs.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG):

In 2017, Mbappé made a high-profile transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

With PSG, he has won multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cup competitions.

Mbappé has formed a formidable attacking trio with Neymar and other star players at PSG.

World Cup Success:

Mbappé played a crucial role in France's victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

He scored four goals in the tournament, including one in the final against Croatia, helping France secure their second World Cup title.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Mbappé is known for his prolific goal-scoring ability, combining clinical finishing with remarkable speed and agility.

He has consistently been among the top goal-scorers in Ligue 1 and other competitions.

Individual Awards:

Mbappé has received numerous individual awards for his outstanding performances, including being named the Ligue 1 Player of the Season.

Playing Style:

Known for his explosive pace, technical skill, and composure in front of goal, Mbappé is considered one of the most exciting young talents in world football.

International Career:

Apart from his success at the World Cup, Mbappé has been a key figure for the French national team in UEFA European Championships and other international competitions.

Off the Field:

Beyond his contributions on the field, Mbappé is often praised for his humility, professionalism, and charitable work.

6-Mohamed Salah 

(Egypt/Liverpool): Mohamed Salah is an Egyptian professional footballer widely known for his goal-scoring prowess and contributions to the sport. Here are some key details about Mohamed Salah:

• Full Name: Mohamed Salah Hamed Mahrous Ghaly
• Date of Birth: June 15, 1992
• Place of Birth: Nagrig, Basyoun, Egypt
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: Liverpool FC, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

El Mokawloon (2010–2012)

Basel (2012–2014)

Chelsea (2014–2016)

AS Roma (2016–2017)

Career Highlights:

El Mokawloon (2010–2012):

Salah started his professional career with El Mokawloon in Egypt.

FC Basel (2012–2014):

Salah joined FC Basel in Switzerland, where he gained recognition for his performances, particularly in the UEFA Europa League.

Chelsea (2014–2016):

In 2014, Salah moved to Chelsea in the English Premier League.

He faced some challenges at Chelsea but gained valuable experience in English football.

AS Roma (2016–2017):

Salah found success during his time with AS Roma in Serie A, Italy.

His impressive performances in Italy attracted attention from top European clubs.

Liverpool FC:

Salah made a high-profile move to Liverpool in 2017 and quickly became a key player for the club.

With Liverpool, Salah has won the UEFA Champions League, English Premier League, and other domestic and international honors.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Salah is known for his remarkable goal-scoring record, consistently ranking among the top goal-scorers in the Premier League.

Individual Awards:

Salah has received several individual awards, including being named the PFA Players' Player of the Year and the FWA Footballer of the Year.

Golden Boot:

Salah has won the Premier League Golden Boot for being the top goal-scorer in the league.

International Career:

Salah has represented the Egyptian national team in multiple Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Off the Field:

Salah is known for his philanthropy work, including contributions to charitable causes in Egypt.

7-Kevin De Bruyne:

(Belgium/Manchester City):Kevin De Bruyne is a Belgian professional footballer known for his exceptional passing ability, vision, and versatility on the field. Here are some key details about Kevin De Bruyne:

• Full Name: Kevin De Bruyne
• Date of Birth: June 28, 1991
• Place of Birth: Drongen, Ghent, Belgium
• Position: Midfielder
• Current Club: Manchester City, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Genk (2008–2012)

Chelsea (2012–2014)

VfL Wolfsburg (2014–2015)

Career Highlights:

Genk (2008–2012):

De Bruyne began his professional career with Genk in Belgium.

Chelsea (2012–2014):

In 2012, De Bruyne joined Chelsea in the English Premier League.

He spent a loan spell at Werder Bremen during the 2012-2013 season.

VfL Wolfsburg (2014–2015):

De Bruyne moved to VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga in 2014.

His performances in Germany earned him recognition and paved the way for a return to the Premier League.

Manchester City:

De Bruyne joined Manchester City in 2015 and has since become one of the key players for the club.

With Manchester City, he has won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and EFL Cups.

Midfield Maestro:

De Bruyne is known for his exceptional passing range, playmaking abilities, and contributions in both scoring and assisting goals.

He often operates as an attacking midfielder or central midfielder.

Individual Awards:

De Bruyne has received numerous individual awards for his outstanding performances, including being named the PFA Players' Player of the Year.

Assist King:

De Bruyne is recognized as one of the best assist providers in the world, consistently leading the charts in the Premier League.

International Career:

De Bruyne has been a key player for the Belgian national team in various UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cup tournaments.

UEFA Champions League Success:

De Bruyne played a crucial role in Manchester City's journey to the UEFA Champions League final in the 2020-2021 season.

8-Erling Haaland 

(Norway/Borussia Dortmund): Erling Haaland is a Norwegian professional footballer known for his prolific goal-scoring ability and physical presence on the field. Here are some key details about Erling Haaland:

• Full Name: Erling Braut Haaland
• Date of Birth: July 21, 2000
• Place of Birth: Leeds, England
• Position: Striker
• Current Club: Borussia Dortmund, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Molde FK (2017–2019)

RB Salzburg (2019–2020)

Career Highlights:

Molde FK (2017–2019):

Haaland began his professional career with Molde FK in Norway.

He made a significant impact, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.

RB Salzburg (2019–2020):

In 2019, Haaland moved to RB Salzburg in Austria.

He gained widespread recognition for his performances in the UEFA Champions League, scoring goals at an impressive rate.

Borussia Dortmund:

Haaland joined Borussia Dortmund in January 2020.

He continued his goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga and other competitions, becoming one of the most sought-after strikers in European football.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Haaland is known for his clinical finishing, strength, and ability to score a variety of goals.

He consistently ranks among the top goal-scorers in the leagues he has played in.

Transfer Speculation:

Due to his impressive performances, Haaland has been the subject of intense transfer speculation, with numerous top clubs expressing interest in signing him.

International Career:

Haaland represents the Norwegian national team and has featured in various UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Individual Awards:

Haaland has received recognition for his performances, including being named the Golden Boy in 2020, awarded to the best young player in Europe.

Physical Attributes:

Haaland is known for his imposing physical presence, pace, and composure in front of goal.

9-Bruno Fernandes:

(Portugal/Manchester United):Bruno Fernandes is a Portuguese professional footballer known for his playmaking skills and goal-scoring ability. Here are some key details about Bruno Fernandes:

• Full Name: Bruno Miguel Borges Fernandes
• Date of Birth: September 8, 1994
• Place of Birth: Maia, Portugal
• Position: Midfielder
• Current Club: Manchester United, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Clubs:

Novara (2012–2014)

Udinese (2014–2016)

Sampdoria (2016–2017)

Sporting CP (2017–2020)

Career Highlights:

Early Career:

Bruno Fernandes started his professional career in Italy with Novara in 2012 before moving to Udinese.

Sampdoria (2016–2017):

Fernandes joined Sampdoria for the 2016-2017 season, gaining experience in Serie A.

Sporting CP (2017–2020):

Fernandes moved to Sporting CP in Portugal in 2017 and quickly became a standout player.

He played a crucial role in Sporting CP's success, contributing goals and assists from midfield.

Manchester United:

Bruno Fernandes made a high-profile move to Manchester United in January 2020.

His arrival had a significant impact on the team, with Fernandes becoming a key playmaker and goal-scorer in the midfield.

Playmaking and Goal-Scoring Record:

Fernandes is known for his vision, passing ability, and goal-scoring prowess.

He is often involved in creating and scoring goals for his team.

Individual Awards:

Fernandes received several individual awards and recognitions for his performances, including being named the Premier League Player of the Month multiple times.

Portuguese National Team:

Fernandes represents the Portuguese national team and has participated in various UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Leadership Role:

At Manchester United, Fernandes has taken on a leadership role on the field, contributing not only as a playmaker but also as a vocal presence.

10-Karim Benzema:

(France/Real Madrid):Karim Benzema is a French professional footballer known for his skillful play and goal-scoring ability. Here are some key details about Karim Benzema:

• Full Name: Karim Mostafa Benzema
• Date of Birth: December 19, 1987
• Place of Birth: Lyon, France
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: Real Madrid, but please note that player transfers may have occurred since then.

Previous Club:

Olympique Lyonnais (2004–2009)

Career Highlights:

Olympique Lyonnais (2004–2009):

Benzema began his professional career with Olympique Lyonnais in France.

He had a successful spell at Lyon, winning several domestic league titles.

Real Madrid:

Benzema transferred to Real Madrid in 2009, becoming a key figure in the team's attack.

With Real Madrid, he has won numerous La Liga titles, UEFA Champions League titles, and other domestic and international honors.

Goal-Scoring Record:

Benzema is known for his clinical finishing and ability to score a variety of goals.

He has consistently been among the top goal-scorers for Real Madrid.

Partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo:

During his time at Real Madrid, Benzema formed a formidable attacking trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, known as the "BBC" (Bale, Benzema, Cristiano).

The trio played a key role in Real Madrid's successes, including their UEFA Champions League victories.

Individual Achievements:

Benzema has received individual accolades for his performances, including being named the French Player of the Year.

French National Team:

Benzema has represented the French national team in various UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.

After a period of absence from the national team, he returned to represent France in 2021.

Off-Field Controversies:

Benzema has been involved in off-field controversies, including legal issues related to an alleged attempt to blackmail fellow French international Mathieu Valbuena. This led to his exclusion from the national team for a period.