Top 10 Greatest Chilean Footballers: A Ranked List

Chile has produced some remarkable football talent, known for their fierce playing style and contributions to both club and country. This list highlights the top 10 Chilean footballers, ranked by their achievements, influence on the game, and international success.

• 1. Arturo Vidal - Clubs: Juventus, Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Inter Milan. Achievements: 5 Serie A titles, 3 Bundesliga titles, 2 Copa America trophies. Caps: 142.
• 2. Alexis Sanchez - Clubs: Arsenal, Inter Milan, Barcelona, Udinese, Manchester United. Achievements: 2 Serie A titles, 2 Copa America wins, 2 FA Cups. Caps: 166 with 50 goals, Chile's all-time top scorer.
• 3. Iván Zamorano - Clubs: Real Madrid, Inter Milan, CF América. Achievements: Europa League, La Liga, Copa del Rey titles. Caps: 69.
• 4. Marcelo Salas - Clubs: SS Lazio, Universidad de Chile, River Plate, Juventus. Achievements: 3 Serie A & Argentine league titles, 2 Chilean league titles. Caps: 70.
• 5. Claudio Bravo - Clubs: Real Sociedad, Barcelona, Real Betis, Manchester City. Achievements: 2 Premier League titles, La Liga, Chilean League, Copa America, 1 UEFA Champions League. Caps: 150.
• 6. Leonel Sanchez - Clubs: Universidad de Chile, Colo-Colo. Achievements: 7 Chilean league titles. Caps: 84.
• 7. Eduardo Vargas - Clubs: Atlético Mineiro, Tigres UNAL, Universidad de Chile, Gremio, Hoffenheim, Napoli, Valencia, QPR. Achievements: 2 Copa Americas, Chilean, Mexican leagues, CONCACAF Champions League. Caps: 114.
• 8. Gary Medel - Clubs: Inter Milan, Bologna, Sevilla, Besiktas, Boca Juniors. Achievements: 2 Copa America titles. Caps: 161.
• 9. David Pizarro - Clubs: AS Roma, Udinese, Universidad de Chile, Inter Milan. Achievements: Premier League, Serie A, Copa America, Chilean League. Caps: 46.
• 10. Carlos Caszely - Clubs: Colo-Colo, Espanyol. Achievements: 5 Chilean league titles. Caps: 49.

Profiles of Chile’s Finest

Carlos Caszely dominated Chilean football in the 1970s and 80s, becoming Colo-Colo's highest scorer with 208 goals and winning five league titles. His international tally includes 29 goals in 49 appearances.

David Pizarro, a deep-lying playmaker, enjoyed a successful career in Italy and England, winning titles with Inter Milan and Manchester City. He earned 46 caps and was part of Chile’s 2015 Copa America victory.

Gary Medel is renowned for his defensive tenacity, making 161 appearances and helping Chile win back-to-back Copa Americas in 2015 and 2016. Now with Boca Juniors, he has been a key figure in midfield and defense.

Eduardo Vargas stands out as a versatile forward with 43 international goals and over 127 club goals. He was Chile’s leading scorer in their Copa America triumphs.

Leonel Sanchez was the top scorer at the 1962 World Cup and led Chile to a third-place finish on home soil. He won seven domestic titles playing exclusively in Chile.

Claudio Bravo, one of South America’s finest goalkeepers, retired in 2024 after an illustrious career including two Copa America titles and major European trophies.

Marcelo Salas made a mark in Italy with Lazio and Juventus, scoring 100 goals in 272 matches and winning titles in Chile, Argentina, and Italy.

Iván Zamorano is remembered for his prolific scoring with Real Madrid, where he won La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Pichichi Trophy.

Alexis Sanchez gained global recognition for his pace and skill, playing for top clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Manchester United. He remains Chile’s most capped player and top scorer.

Arturo Vidal leads this list with a decorated career spanning top European clubs and 142 caps for Chile, winning multiple league titles and Copa Americas. Still active, he embodies passion and leadership.

Chile’s Football Journey

South America’s passion for football runs deep, and Chile has its share of legends who brought glory with aggressive and spirited performances. Despite recent struggles to qualify for World Cups since 2014 and current difficulties in the 2026 qualifiers, Chile’s history boasts golden generations and memorable triumphs.

The rankings consider club success, international performances, and longevity. The dominance of players from the 2015-2016 Copa America-winning squads is clear, though the future remains uncertain amid challenges.

Quick Facts

• Best Chilean Player: Arturo Vidal
• All-time Top Scorer: Alexis Sanchez (50 goals)
• Most Capped Player: Alexis Sanchez (166 appearances)
• European Clubs Arturo Vidal Played For: Juventus, Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Inter Milan
• Chilean Player Who Played for Real Madrid: Iván Zamorano