Ronaldo Nazario Reveals His Pick for the 8 Greatest Footballers Ever
The question of who stands as the greatest football player ever has sparked endless debate. While names like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo often dominate this discussion, Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario shared his own take in a 2022 interview with The Guardian, naming eight players he believes belong to an elite group. Interestingly, Cristiano Ronaldo was not among them.
Some notable absences include Michel Platini, Alfredo Di Stefano, Zinedine Zidane, George Best, and Ferenc Puskas, but considering Ronaldo Nazario's experience as one of football’s all-time great strikers, his perspective carries weight. Let’s explore the eight players he selected and why they are considered legends.
Diego Maradona - Argentina (Attacking Midfielder)
Maradona is often cited as one of football's greatest. He starred in four World Cups and led Argentina to victory in 1986. At club level, he inspired Napoli to their first Serie A title in 1986/87 and another a few years later. His legacy is immortalized in Naples with widespread fan admiration. His magical skill was evident, especially in moments like his famous goal against England.
- Appearances: 435
- Goals: 194
- Assists: 134
Lionel Messi - Argentina (Forward)
Following Maradona, Messi might just be the best ever. Now at Inter Miami, he clinched the 2022 World Cup which may solidify his GOAT status. His astonishing tally includes 672 goals in 778 matches for Barcelona alone. Beyond scoring, Messi is celebrated as an extraordinary playmaker and dribbler, holding a record eight Ballon d'Or awards.
- Appearances: 1180
- Goals: 922
- Assists: 454
Johan Cruyff - Netherlands (Attacking Midfielder)
Cruyff might not top everyone's list, but he revolutionized football. Winning three Ballon d'Or titles in the early '70s, he became a legend at Ajax and Barcelona. He created the famous 'Cruyff turn,' still widely used today. His influence extended beyond playing, enjoying success as a manager at those clubs too.
- Appearances: 599
- Goals: 335
- Assists: 221
Franz Beckenbauer - Germany (Defender)
The only defender on Ronaldo's list, Beckenbauer is credited with inventing the modern sweeper role. He won the FIFA World Cup, European Champions Cup, and Ballon d'Or—an elite trifecta. Playing nearly 600 games for Bayern Munich, he dominated defensively like no other.
- Appearances: 724
- Goals: 88
- Assists: 85
Pele - Brazil (Forward)
Ronaldo notes that generations can't be compared, but Pele’s impact remains undeniable. Few witnessed his prime, yet he is the only player to win three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970). FIFA credits him with 1,281 goals in 1,363 games. A Santos legend, Pele influenced countless stars after him.
- Appearances: 1363
- Goals: 1281
Marco van Basten - Netherlands (Forward)
Van Basten is considered one of the finest strikers despite retiring at 28 due to injury. He claimed three Ballon d'Or awards and won multiple league titles with Ajax and AC Milan. For the Netherlands, he scored 24 goals and was instrumental in winning Euro 1988, highlighted by his volley in the final.
- Appearances: 431
- Goals: 301
- Assists: 92
Ronaldinho - Brazil (Winger)
Though not always mentioned in GOAT talks, Ronaldinho’s peak was extraordinary. The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner dazzled at Barcelona in 2005/06 and 2006/07 seasons, delighting fans with exceptional skill and joyful play. His peak was shorter than others but highly impressive.
- Appearances: 643
- Goals: 180
- Assists: 151
Ronaldo Nazario - Brazil (Forward)
Finally, Ronaldo included himself, which seems fitting. Known for his speed, skill, and goal-scoring prowess, he was football’s first real superstar of the modern era. Despite severe knee injuries, he enjoyed a glittering career with PSV, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Corinthians. He won the Ballon d'Or at 21 and left a lasting mark on the game.
- Appearances: 553
- Goals: 360
- Assists: 108
