The 5 best footballers of all time: Who are they?

In the thrilling world of football, the discussion about who the greatest players of all time are is a topic that generates excitement and endless debates among fans. With so many legends and brilliant talents who have left their mark on the history of the beautiful game, it is difficult to narrow the list down to just five names. However, on this occasion, we will highlight the five footballers who have made history in football and who, in our opinion, deserve to be included in this exclusive group. Each of them has contributed something unique to the game and has inspired entire generations.

  • Pelé: The King of Football
  • Pelé, whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. He was born on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil. Throughout his career, Pelé took football to new heights and became a global symbol of the sport.

    Achievements and statistics

  • Copas del MundoHe won three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970), being the only player in history to achieve this.
  • GolesHe is credited with more than 1,000 goals in official matches, although the exact number varies depending on the source.
  • Impact on football

    Pelé's playing style, his technical skill, and his ability to score goals from any position made him a living legend. His famous volley goal in the 1970 World Cup final is still considered one of the best goals in history.

  • Diego Maradona: El Genio Argentino
  • The 5 best footballers of all time: Who are they?

    Diego Maradona is another of the most important stars in world football. He was born on October 30, 1960, in Lanús, Argentina, and is known for his brilliance on the field as well as for his controversies off it.

    Achievements and statistics

  • Copas del MundoHe won the World Cup in 1986, where he dazzled the world with memorable performances, including the famous "Goal of the Century" and the controversial "Hand of God."
  • ClubesAfter shining at Argentinos Juniors and Boca Juniors, Maradona had a monumental impact at Italy's Napoli, where he won multiple titles.
  • Estilo de juego

    Maradona is admired for his extraordinary vision of the game, his dribbling skills, and his ability to find space in difficult situations. His legacy remains alive among fans, who believe that his natural talent was unmatched.

  • Lionel Messi: La Magia del Futuro
  • Lionel Messi, a prodigy of Argentine football, is a contemporary figure who has dominated the game for more than a decade. Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi is widely recognized as the best player of his generation.

    Achievements and statistics

  • Balones de OroHe has won multiple Ballon d'Or awards (more than seven times up to 2023), making him the most awarded player in history.
  • GolesHe has scored more than 700 goals in official competitions with his club and the national team.
  • Contributions to football

    Messi is famous for his ability to change the course of matches with his dribbling, his speed, and his capacity to score from any angle. His association with FC Barcelona is one of the most successful chapters in the history of football, and he is an icon who will continue to inspire future stars of the sport.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo: La Bestia Competitiva
  • Cristiano Ronaldo, born on February 5, 1985 in Funchal, Portugal, is known for his work ethic, dedication, and ability to score goals in any setting. He is often compared to Messi, which has led to an ongoing debate about who is the best player.

    Achievements and statistics

  • Balones de OroHe has won several Ballon d'Or awards, establishing himself as one of the best footballers in the world.
  • GolesLike Messi, he has scored more than 700 goals in official competitions.
  • Estilo de vida y trabajo duro

    Cristiano is a role model when it comes to preparation and commitment to football. His discipline has helped him stay at the top for more than a decade, and his influence has transcended beyond the playing field.

  • Johan Cruyff: El Innovador del Juego
  • Johan Cruyff, born on April 25, 1947 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, not only left an indelible mark as a player, but was also an innovator in football management and strategy. Although he passed away in 2016, his legacy lives on.

    Achievements and statistics

  • Ballon d'OrHe won the Ballon d'Or on three occasions (1971, 1973, 1974).
  • RendimientoWith Ajax and the Dutch national team, he was responsible for "total football," a style of play that revolutionized the sport.
  • Legado

    Cruyff was known for his vision of the game and his ability to influence tactics. His unique style of play and football philosophy have inspired generations of coaches and players.


    Preguntas frecuentes

  • Why is Pelé considered the greatest footballer of all time?
  • Pelé is considered the greatest footballer of all time due to his unprecedented achievements, such as winning three World Cups and multiple titles with his club. His technical skill, speed, and understanding of the game place him on a pedestal that few have reached.

  • What made Diego Maradona a unique player?
  • Diego Maradona is considered unique for his natural skill and creativity on the field. His ability to lead the Argentine national team to win the 1986 World Cup is a testament to his impact on football, as well as his charismatic personality off the field.

  • Messi or Ronaldo, who is the best?
  • The debate over who is the best between Messi and Ronaldo has been the subject of passionate discussions. Messi is known for his magic and creativity, while Ronaldo is admired for his work ethic and physical strength. Both are legends in their own right.

  • What innovations did Johan Cruyff bring to football?
  • Johan Cruyff introduced the philosophy of "total football," which emphasizes the versatility and mobility of players. His tactical approach has influenced coaches and teams all over the world.

  • Why is it important to consider the impact of these players on football?
  • These players not only scored goals and won titles, but also transformed the way football is played and perceived. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of players and coaches.

  • Which other players could be in the Top 5?
  • There are many other players who could be considered for the top 5, such as Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldinho, and Alfredo Di Stefano. Each has left their own mark and their contributions to the game are worth remembering.


    The footballers mentioned are just a handful of the many who have left their mark on the sport. In remembering their achievements, we celebrate not only their exceptional talent, but also the passion and love they have brought to the beautiful game of football.