Everyone has their favorites, and even in the world of sports, the idea of ‘best players’ can be quite a subjective term. Yet, certain players will almost always reach the top of any list.
Today we’re going to discuss some of the greatest soccer players of all time. These athletes gave us the most memorable goals, striking moments, and all-time highest scores.
Pele
Pele’s full name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, but he is better known simply as Pele. By many, he is considered the best soccer player of all time. Look at any other ranking list, and the odds are more than good that you’ll find him near the top (if not at the top). Pele has personally scored more than twelve hundred goals – an awe-inspiring feat.
Diego Maradona
Diego Armando Maradona is an Argentine professional soccer player who has achieved great success and fame within the sport. Diego Maradona helped Argentina win the 1986 World Cup, plus three national championships and a UEFA Cup (with Napoli).
Lionel Messi
Next up on the list is Lionel Messi. Lionel Messi is another Argentine player who has earned worldwide recognition. Once again, many consider him to be the best soccer player out there, thanks to his track record. He’s earned countless personal accolades, awards, and achievements. He helped Barcelona win 35 trophies, among other accomplishments.
Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff hailed from the Netherlands, and while he may have passed on – his memory still lives on. Cruyff is perhaps most famous for his way of looking at the sport and how he influenced coaches and fellow players alike.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristian Ronaldo is a Portuguese soccer player with a history of winning five Ballon d’Or awards, a record number of goals and assists, and so much more. Every moment seems to give him another opportunity to break a record or earn a new achievement.
Michel Platini
Michel Francois Platini is the top scorer of France, earning him a place on this list. However, that is not his only crowning achievement. For example, he helped his team win three consecutive Ballon d’Ors in a row. Unfortunately, his soccer career was cut short following an investigation.