Who Are the Best Football Players Ever? Our Definitive Ranking Reveals All

When I first started covering football professionally back in the late '90s, I thought I had a pretty clear idea of who the greatest players were. The usual suspects came to mind—Pelé, Maradona, Cruyff. But over the years, as I’ve watched thousands of matches, analyzed countless statistics, and spoken with dozens of legends, my perspective has shifted dramatically. The question of who truly deserves the title of the best football player ever is one that sparks endless debate, and everyone seems to have a different answer. In fact, just last week, a fellow journalist asked me if there could ever be a definitive ranking. His answer? A big no. And honestly, I get it—how can you possibly compare players across different eras, positions, and styles? But that’s exactly what makes this topic so fascinating. Today, I’m diving deep into my own definitive ranking, blending hard data, personal observations, and a healthy dose of bias.

Let’s start with the obvious: Lionel Messi. I’ve been lucky enough to watch him play live on several occasions, and each time, it feels like witnessing magic. His stats are mind-boggling—over 800 career goals, 350-plus assists, and a record seven Ballon d’Or awards. But numbers alone don’t capture his genius. I remember one particular Champions League match where he dribbled past five defenders as if they were training cones. It wasn’t just skill; it was artistry. Messi’s ability to read the game is almost supernatural, and his consistency over two decades is something I doubt we’ll see again. For me, he’s not just the best of his generation—he’s the best, period. Close behind, though, is Cristiano Ronaldo. Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore his relentless drive. I’ve interviewed teammates who say his work ethic is inhuman, and it shows in his numbers: 850-plus goals, five Champions League titles, and international success with Portugal. But here’s where my bias kicks in: while Ronaldo is a machine, Messi is an artist. And in football, I’ll always lean toward artistry.

Then there’s the old guard—Pelé and Diego Maradona. Pelé’s 1,283 career goals (yes, I know, some argue it’s inflated, but let’s go with it) and three World Cups speak for themselves. I never saw him play live, but studying footage from the 1960s, it’s clear he was ahead of his time. His flair, vision, and athleticism would still dominate today. Maradona, on the other hand, was pure chaos—in the best way possible. I’ll never forget watching the 1986 World Cup as a kid and seeing him weave through England’s defense for that iconic goal. He was flawed, controversial, but undeniably brilliant. In my book, he edges out Pelé slightly because of his sheer impact on the pitch, even if it was for a shorter period.

But what about the midfield maestros? Johan Cruyff revolutionized the game with his "Total Football" philosophy. I’ve spoken with coaches who still use his principles today, and his influence extends beyond his playing days. With three Ballon d’Ors and countless tactical innovations, he’s a lock for my top five. Zinedine Zidane is another personal favorite. I was in the stadium for the 2002 Champions League final when he scored that stunning volley—it’s etched in my memory forever. His elegance, control, and big-game moments make him, in my opinion, the greatest midfielder of all time. Sure, his stats (around 150 goals) don’t compare to forwards, but football isn’t just about numbers. It’s about moments, and Zidane delivered when it mattered most.

Now, let’s talk defenders and goalkeepers, because they often get overlooked in these debates. Franz Beckenbauer redefined the sweeper role with such grace that I’d argue he’s the most complete defender in history. Leading West Germany to World Cup glory in 1974 while dominating at Bayern Munich—that’s legacy. And then there’s Lev Yashin, the "Black Spider." With over 150 penalty saves and a Ballon d’Or to his name (the only goalkeeper to win it), he set the standard for keepers. I once met a retired striker who faced him in the 1960s, and he told me Yashin’s presence alone was intimidating. In modern times, I’d give a shout to Gianluigi Buffon, with his 176 international caps and 20-plus years at the top. But Yashin’s mythic status keeps him on my list.

Of course, this ranking isn’t without controversy. Some might argue for Alfredo Di Stéfano or Ronaldo Nazário, and I get it—R9’s 2002 World Cup performance was sheer brilliance. But injuries cut his prime short, and in these debates, longevity matters. I also have a soft spot for modern players like Kevin De Bruyne, whose passing range I’ve admired for years, but he’s not quite there yet. And let’s not forget George Best—flawed, yes, but his talent was otherworldly. I once read a quote from a former teammate saying Best could do things with a ball that defied physics. Hyperbole? Maybe, but it captures the emotion these players evoke.

In the end, my definitive ranking boils down to a mix of stats, impact, and personal bias. Messi tops my list, followed by Maradona, Pelé, Cruyff, and Zidane. But as that journalist friend reminded me, there’s no single answer. Football is too rich, too diverse for that. What I’ve learned over the years is that greatness isn’t just about trophies or goals; it’s about how a player captures our imagination. Whether it’s Messi’s dribbles, Maradona’s passion, or Cruyff’s ideas, the best players leave a mark that lasts long after they retire. So, while my list might not be perfect, it’s a reflection of the football I love—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.