Football has always been a team sport, but the distinctive skill sets that make up a winning squad are what make it so great. Since each position can be used in a variety of ways, each player that plays that position has unique skills and characteristics.
There has never been such a wide range of positions on a football field, from inverted fullbacks to second strikers. Fans still favor a certain kind of player who has existed from the beginning of football, even though the game is still developing and reaching new heights of tactical skill.
Many football players, some more than others, brought flare and skill to the professional game after growing up playing on fields, in cages, and on the streets. Football enthusiasts throughout the world appreciate those players because they are visually appealing and provide individuality to a game that can sometimes be robotic.
Over the years, football has been fortunate to have a long list of talented players, ranging from smooth South Americans to vivacious Englishmen. The 15 best football players in history have been ranked and ordered using artificial intelligence (AI), and Cristiano Ronaldo failed to make the list.
15Rivelino
Statistics for the Rivelino Club
Professional Appearances:
338
Professional Objectives:
105
Shown Up For:
Al-Hilal, Fluminense, and Corinthians
Brazilian talent Rivelino is at the top of AI’s ranking. Although he may not be the most well-known name when looking for South American legends, Rivelino was a traditional Brazilian who gave football style in the 1960s and 1970s. Known for his fierce left foot, bending free-kicks, elastico flicks, long-range rockets, and, of course, his mustache, he was the hero of Brazil’s 1970 World Cup campaign, which they won. AI points to his 26 goals in 92 caps for Brazil as a key factor in his selection over more contemporary names.
14Andrés Iniesta
Statistics for the Andrés Iniesta Club
Professional Appearances:
625
Professional Objectives:
66
Shown Up For:
Vissel Kobe, Barcelona, and Emirates
Andrés Iniesta is the one on the list after moving to Spain. After graduating from the renowned La Masia development system, which produced some of the greatest football players, Iniesta established himself as a mainstay in the Blaugrana’s midfield and made over 400 appearances for the team.
AI has called him Spain’s silent maestro, citing his 2010 World Cup-winning goal as proof of his poetic tight control, 360-degree vision, and ability to float through defenses. When discussing football’s most talented players, Iniesta isn’t mentioned enough despite amassing over 100 assists during his tenure in Spain.
13Juan Román Riquelme
Statistics for the Juan Román Riquelme Club
Professional Appearances:
443
Professional Objectives:
106
Shown Up For:
Argentinos Juniors, Villareal, Barcelona, and Boca Juniors
Although he isn’t the most spectacular or showy player on this list, Juan Roman Riquelme is a legend of the beautiful game who finished his career with more than 80 goals and 200 assists in all appearances.
He is remembered for his exceptional vision and touch, as well as his unique drag-backs, free-kicks, and slow-motion passing. His three goals in two legs during the 2007 Copa Libertadores for Boca Juniors demonstrated his extraordinary potential.
12Ángel Di María
Statistics for the Ángel Di María Club as of May 02, 2025
Professional Appearances:
538
Professional Objectives:
115
Shown Up For:
Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG, Juventus, Rosario Central, and Benfica
Every club wanted Ángel Di María, as evidenced by his career history and the fact that he was the first active player on the list. He shone everywhere he went after showcasing his skills at prestigious clubs in England, Spain, France, and Portugal.
According to AI, the Argentine’s skill is defined by his deft dribbling, accurate crosses, and clutch plays. Mentioning instances like his 2021 Copa América goal and his 2014 Champions League final assist, Di Maria is the epitome of a clutch player since he always seems to be there when it counts. When he puts up his boots, the game will remember his talent, a versatile and subtle one.
11Jay-Jay Okocha
Statistics for the Jay-Jay Okocha Club
Professional Appearances:
454
Professional Objectives:
89
Shown Up For:
PSG, Fenerbahçe, Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Neunkirchen,
Hull City, Qatar SC, Bolton Wanderers,
Jay-Jay Okocha, a man who defines Barclaysman, narrowly missed a place in the top ten. Unlike earlier competitors, Okocha never really made it to the top of the game, but he did add an incredible amount of flare to every league in which he played.
The flair master of Nigeria. At the 1998 World Cup, his sombrero flicks, step-overs, and free-kick skill were incredible. His talent influenced a generation, particularly in Africa and at Bolton, despite being less productive than others on the list.
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