“The Beautiful Game” – these three words sum up what association football, known simply as football or soccer, means to the millions of individuals who follow it globally. The phrase was made popular by Pele. The sport and its players have captivated the hearts of the young and the old. If football is an orchestra, the footballers are the conductors.
Throughout the years, we have seen many greats of the game mesmerize us with their deft touches and movements. A powerful shot here, a clinical pass there, a tipping save over the bar – we have seen great footballers do them all. We have compiled a list of ten retired footballers who we think were the best at what they did.
- Pele
Born Edson Arantes da Nasimento, this goal-scoring Brazilian whipped in an impressive 1,282 goals in 1,366 games. His natural pace, strength and dribbling skills saw him run riot against every opponent. He won the World Cup thrice with Brazil in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
- Diego Maradona
The Argentine is well-known for his famous or infamous – depending on who you ask – “Hand of God” goal at the 1986 World Cup. The controversy often overshadows his skills which netted him a total of 345 goals in 680 games. He was a gifted dribbler with exceptional balance and a knack for scoring goals.
- Johann Cruyff
The Dutch man is well-known for his famous “Cruyff turn” which has become one of the most common moves in football. A complete package with an equal measure of both ability and intelligence, Cruyff won the hearts of many with his style of play. He was a prolific goal scorer as well, scoring 401 goals in 710 appearances.
- Franz Beckenbauer
The ultimate “sweeper” who led his team with example and displays of exceptional athleticism, Beckenbauer can be considered one of the best players out on the field at any given time. His defensive duties never held him back from putting 111 goals into the opposite end from 776 appearances.
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- Michel Platini
An attacking midfielder, the Frenchman scored 353 goals in 652 games. An excellent free-kick taker and a sharp passer, he also had an uncanny talent for scoring goals. His 9 goals led France to the 1984 European Championships. His later career in the football scene may have hit certain bumps but no one can deny his brilliance on the field.
- Zico
Usually underappreciated and unrecognized amongst more familiar names, Zico was right up there with the best of the best. It was not just scoring goals – he excelled in taking free-kicks and possessed great heading ability. Although he had no notable achievements to his name, you certainly can’t count him out.
- Ferenc Puskas
The Hungarian great is certainly one of the best when it comes to producing the most precise and intelligent goals. His playing career saw him win 13 trophies, both domestic and abroad, and bag 700 goals in 702 games. The FIFA Puskas Award is named in his honour.
- George Best
Despite a career beset by drinking problems, Best is unparalleled when it comes to skills on the field. His dribbling ability was second to none. He scored 205 goals in 579 games and added a Balon d’Or in 1968. His career is a case of a ‘what if’ question.
- Alfredo di Stefano
An Argentine who represented Real Madrid and made his name with them, Stefano scored 511 goals in 702 appearances. Although he was a striker, he is best known for his work on the field, appearing in all positions. Stefano won 5 European Cups with Madrid and 13 League titles in his career.
- Zinedine Zidane
Known for his calm composure and control over the ball, the Frenchman dictated play in the midfield. Coming through for his teams in decisive games, he was no stranger to scoring goals. 159 goals in 789 games is a noteworthy achievement. His management of Real Madrid after his retirement has paid dividends, winning 3 consecutive European Cups.
This list is in no way complete. Top ten lists are always susceptible to changes as the years roll on. Avid football fans can certainly look forward to new additions as we continue to update our list. In the meantime, lace-up and get on the field!
