The Most Influential Football Players in History

Any football bet placed through AB online casino can bring a win. However, to increase the chances of success, it is recommended to conduct a pre-match analysis of the meeting. One of the key factors in this analysis remains the lineup. Having a player on the field with leadership qualities and the ability to influence the game is considered a significant advantage for the team. In December 2023, a list of the top 50 most influential footballers of all time was compiled. There is no ranking by rating. Everyone was simply arranged in alphabetical order. But in this article, we will highlight some players who made the list.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Undoubtedly, this list would be incomplete without the Portuguese. Cristiano Ronaldo has made a significant contribution to the history of football:

– 5-time Champions League winner;

– 5-time Ballon d’Or recipient;

– European Champion with the national team;

– 3-time Premier League champion;

– 2-time La Liga and Serie A champion.

This list is far from exhaustive of the Portuguese’s achievements. Cristiano remains the top scorer in football history and continues to score. In 2023, he ended the year as the top goal scorer, netting 54 goals, proving that it’s too early for him to retire. The Parimatch betting company accepts forecasts even on the player’s individual performance in matches.

Lionel Messi

In 2023, Messi received his eighth Ballon d’Or. This record might stand forever. Along with Ronaldo, Messi has been the dominant player in European football for over a decade. Even moving to MLS towards the end of his career, he continues to win titles and amaze fans with his technique and skill. Moreover, Messi has won every possible title at both the national and club level, including the Club World Cup.

The impact of a player on the team can be clearly seen. Messi moved to the last team in the league table and became the league cup champion, winning all matches with the team. And in the first game without the Argentine, the team lost. This trend was observed more than once.

Diego Maradona and Pelé are also on the list

Understandably, it wouldn’t be complete without Maradona and Pelé. These players have entered football history as legends. The legacy they left is immense. Every football fan respects these players, and there’s hardly anyone in the world who doesn’t know these names.

Others Who Made the Ranking

We won’t list all the footballers, but we will mention some well-known names, namely:

– Franz Beckenbauer;

– David Beckham;

– Eric Cantona;

– Johan Cruyff;

– Rio Ferdinand;

– Garrincha;

– Thierry Henry;

– Thomas Müller;

– Neymar;

– Manuel Neuer;

– Ronaldinho;

– Andrea Pirlo;

– Jamie Vardy;

– Ronaldo;

– Zinedine Zidane;

– Francesco Totti.

The list also includes two representatives of women’s football: Marta and Kelly Smith.

The list includes only those players on whom teams heavily depended and who influenced the quality of the team’s play. Football betting enthusiasts know that when players from the list were absent from the starting lineup, the odds for the team often went up, as the chances of success decreased. Not only technique and football talent were considered, but also leadership qualities and other factors. For example, Francesco Totti is one of the representatives of true leaders in the list.