World-class footballers are some of the most recognisable individuals on the planet. Despite the dizzying fame of celebrities, musicians and politicians, we live in a world where arguably the most followed person on Instagram is the best football player of them all: Cristiano Ronaldo. So let’s take a look at the best players of the 21st century.
Transfermarkt has ranked the 50 footballers it considers to be the sport’s greatest icons since the turn of the century. Lionel Messi tops the list. La Pulga is logically followed by Cristiano Ronaldo. Zinedine Zidane is 3rd, just ahead of Ronaldo Nazario. The top African is Samuel Eto’o in 27th place. Didier Drogba is 32nd.
Here are the Top 50 best players of the 21st century
1 – Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is considered one of the best players in the history of football. Nicknamed La Pulga, Messi enjoyed an exceptional career with Barça before moving on to PSG and then Inter Miami. He triumphed with the Argentine national team, winning the World Cup for the first time. During his time at Barça, Messi won several trophies. He also set records that will not soon be broken.
2 – Cristiano Ronaldo
Also considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo has had an exceptional career. He enjoyed immense success at Manchester United, where he won the Champions League, three Premier League titles and a host of other trophies. His time at Real Madrid was glorious. He conquered Europe during his time at the White House. Renowned for his impressive statistics, Cristiano Ronaldo is currently the best player in the history of football.
3 – Zinedine Zidane
The French legend has also achieved great things in football. Zidane is a highly respected figure in the world of football, both for his achievements as a player and his success as a coach. He came to prominence during his time in Serie A before joining the 1998 World Cup, where he exploded onto the scene. He was one of the key players in France’s triumph. Zidane went on to shine with Real Madrid, scoring some impressive goals.
4 – Ronaldo Nazario
Brazilian international Ronaldo Nazario is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the history of football. He distinguished himself during spells with Barcelona, Inter Milan and Real Madrid. His international career with Brazil was also exceptional. Ronaldo was known for his physical strength, speed and ability to score spectacular goals.
5 – Ronaldinho
Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho is known as one of the most creative, charismatic and talented players in the game. His remarkable performances quickly earned him international recognition. He has continued to shine during his spells in France and Spain.
6 – Andres Iniesta
Former Barça player Andres Iniesta is considered one of the best midfielders in football. He is one of the most elegant and talented players of his generation. He had a fine career with Barça and the national team.
7 – Thierry Henry
The current coach remains an iconic figure in football. He was one of the best strikers in France’s history. His time at Arsenal was crowned with success, and he became the club’s top scorer.
8- Xavi
The current Barça coach was outstanding during his exceptional spell at the Catalan club. He is known for his major contribution to the club’s distinctive style of play (Tiki-Taka). Xavi was one of the best midfielders in football.
9 – Paolo Maldini
Paolo Maldini remains one of the legends of Italian and world football. He is also known for his loyalty to a single club. A quality that is becoming increasingly rare. The captain is considered one of the best defenders in the history of football.
10 – Luis Figo
Luis Figo has left his mark on the history of football with his remarkable performances on the pitch. His technique, his vision of the game and his involvement in modern football have made him one of the best players in the game.
| N° | Players |
| 1 | Lionel Messi |
| 2 | Cristiano Ronaldo |
| 3 | Zinedine Zidane |
| 4 | Ronaldo Nazario |
| 5 | Ronaldinho |
| 6 | Andres Iniesta |
| 7 | Thierry Henry |
| 8 | Xavi |
| 9 | Paolo Maldini |
| 10 | Luis Figo |
| 11 | Steven Gerrard |
| 12 | Zlatan Ibrahimovic |
| 13 | Kaka |
| 14 | Gianluigi Buffon |
| 15 | Andrea Pirlo |
| 16 | Raul |
| 17 | Roberto Carlos |
| 18 | Sergio Ramos |
| 19 | Carles Puyol |
| 20 | David Beckham |
| 21 | Manuel Neuer |
| 22 | Oliver Kahn |
| 23 | Philipp Lahm |
| 24 | Arjen Robben |
| 25 | Francesco Totti |
| 26 | Robert Lewandowski |
| 27 | Samuel Eto’o |
| 28 | Neymar |
| 29 | Clarence Seedorf |
| 30 | Dani Alves |
| 31 | Dennis Bergkamp |
| 32 | Didier Drogba |
| 33 | Frank Lampard |
| 34 | Franck Ribery |
| 35 | Iker Casillas |
| 36 | Xabi Alonso |
| 37 | Bastian Schweinsteiger |
| 38 | Miroslav Klose |
| 39 | Michael Ballack |
| 40 | Wayne Rooney |
| 41 | Andriy Shevchenko |
| 42 | Pavel Nedved |
| 43 | Luis Suarez |
| 44 | Fabio Cannavaro |
| 45 | Luka Modric |
| 46 | Rio Ferdinand |
| 47 | Robin van Persie |
| 48 | Lilian Thuram |
| 49 | Karim Benzema |
| 50 | Vincent Kompany |
Leave a Reply