As of October 2024, four players on this list of the most skilled players in football are still active. Skill is subjective, especially in football; it varies by position. A skilled defender and attacker may both deserve the title, though their skills differ. In today’s stats-driven game, “skill” is one quality you can’t quantify it’s about watching how a player uses the ball to help their team.
In football, “skill” often means different things to different people, but it generally includes impressive footwork, quick movements, and actions that captivate fans. Ronaldinho almost defined the term, dazzling with his flair, no-look passes, and numerous goals for teams like PSG, Barcelona, and AC Milan.
Let’s explore some of the most skilled players in football history.
List of Most Skilled Players in Football History
| Rank | Name | Games Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ronaldinho | 561 | 202 | 171 |
| 2 | Ronaldo Nazario | 481 | 309 | 75 |
| 3 | Lionel Messi | 910+ | 740+ | 356+ |
| 4 | Johan Cruyff | 579 | 324 | 222 |
| 5 | Diego Maradona | 589 | 311 | 225 |
| 6 | Zinedine Zidane | 690 | 125 | 141 |
| 7 | Thierry Henry | 794 | 260 | 173 |
| 8 | Neymar | 589+ | 360+ | 220+ |
| 9 | Ricardo Quaresma | 681 | 112 | 166 |
| 10 | Cristiano Ronaldo | 1022+ | 767+ | 241+ |
10. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are often compared as two of the most skilled players in football, with many viewing them as the greatest of all time. Messi is frequently seen as the pinnacle of natural talent, while Ronaldo exemplifies hard work and dedication. Though Messi’s skill can appear effortless, Ronaldo’s finesse should not be overlooked. Throughout his career, Ronaldo has consistently unsettled defenders, using tricks, swift moves, and lightning-fast footwork combined with incredible pace to trouble any opponent tasked with stopping him.
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9. Ricardo Quaresma
Ricardo Quaresma’s career is marked not only by his remarkable skill as one of the most skilled players in football but also by his temperament. As a young winger, he was known for his trickery, frequently dazzling fans with moves like rabonas and trivelas. However, his fiery temper sometimes led to conflicts, notably when he refused to play under Barcelona’s coach Frank Rijkaard in 2003. Over time, Quaresma matured significantly. By the time of the 2016 Euros, in which he reached the final, he had evolved into a seasoned veteran, still capable of impressing fans, teammates, and opponents alike.
8. Neymar
Neymar, regarded as one of the most skilled players in football, suffered an ACL injury shortly after joining Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia in 2023. This injury, combined with his move away from Europe in his early 30s, raised questions about his place among the greats. However, his technical talent remains unquestionable. He debuted for Brazil at just 18 and has since become their top scorer, showcasing his immense skill. During his time at Barcelona, he thrilled fans as part of a feared trio alongside Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi.
7. Thierry Henry
Many doubted Henry’s £11 million transfer to Arsenal at the time. However, under Arsène Wenger, he reached his peak, becoming one of the most skilled players in football and an influential striker for the team. Henry was a dynamic forward, able to skillfully weave past defenders or speed by them. Former teammate Alan Smith remarked that he had never seen a player like Henry. Although primarily a forward, Henry often drifted to the wings, which contributed to his impressive assist count alongside his goal-scoring prowess.
6. Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane, regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, is known for his graceful play and is considered one of the most skilled players in football. He is renowned for his precise passes and keen goal sense. Zidane is among only nine players to have won the Ballon d’Or, Champions League, and World Cup. Football icons, including ex-Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan and former German captain Franz Beckenbauer, have praised his unique talent.
5. Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona was one of the most skilled players in football history, renowned for his exceptional dribbling and passing abilities. A legendary number 10, he spent his prime at Napoli, where his influence was so profound that the club retired his number. Known for his leadership qualities, Maradona brought a positive impact to any team he played for, leaving an unforgettable legacy in the world of football. His skill on the ball solidified his reputation as a true icon of the sport.
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4. Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff, known as one of the most skilled players in football, spent most of his career with Ajax and Barcelona, where he became a legend. He was a master of “Total Football,” a style he championed, showcasing his exceptional technique. Cruyff’s sharp mind and skill with the ball set him apart, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of football even after his passing.
3. Lionel Messi
With eight Ballon d’Ors, four Champions League titles, ten La Liga wins, two Ligue 1 titles, and a World Cup, Lionel Messi has crafted a remarkable resume that reflects his extraordinary talent. Known as one of the most skilled players in football, Messi’s unique dribbling and scoring abilities, combined with his natural skill, make him nearly impossible to replicate. Many consider his World Cup victory in 2022 as a crowning achievement, solidifying his status among the sport’s all-time greats.
2. Ronaldo Nazario
Ronaldo, famously known as “Il Fenomeno,” is regarded as one of the most skilled players in football. His remarkable speed and technical prowess allowed him to redefine what was possible for a striker. He played for major clubs like Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid, showcasing his ability as a complete forward. Many players and fans describe Ronaldo as the best dribbler in the game, highlighting his exceptional skill set.
1. Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho is often the first player that comes to mind when people think of “Jogo Bonito” or “the Beautiful Game,” embodying skill like no other. His flair, flashy tricks, no-look passes, and consistent goal contributions for clubs like PSG, Barcelona, and AC Milan have solidified his status as one of the most skilled players in football history. With 373 goal contributions in his 561-game career, Ronaldinho’s unique style made him nearly impossible to defend against, earning him legendary status in the sport.
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