Messi tops list of all-time greats, Pele-Maradona second

The debate over who is the greatest footballer of all time has long centered on two legends: Brazil’s Pele and Argentina’s Diego Maradona. However, the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) has now placed Lionel Messi ahead of both icons in a recently published list of the greatest football players in history.

Founded in 1984, the IFFHS is a German-based organization that collects and analyzes data related to football history and statistics. Their list of the all-time greats is based on both individual accomplishments and team achievements, including titles won at the club and international level, as well as awards and records.

At the top of the list stands Lionel Messi, who has had a truly remarkable career. Messi has won a record 46 titles across different teams: 35 trophies with Barcelona, 3 with Paris Saint-Germain, 2 with Inter Miami, and 6 with Argentina, which include the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the Copa America. On an individual level, he has set many records, most notably winning eight Ballon d'Or awards, more than any other player in history. His consistency, skill, vision, and longevity have solidified his place at the summit of football greatness.

In second place is Pele, the Brazilian legend who remains the only player to have won the World Cup three times—in 1958, 1962, and 1970. His impact on the game during his era was unmatched, and he played a key role in making Brazil a footballing powerhouse. Pele's flair, goalscoring ability, and charisma made him a global icon long before the modern era of social media and 24/7 coverage.

Diego Maradona, who comes in third on the IFFHS list, was known for his incredible skill, dribbling, and creativity. His leadership in guiding Argentina to the 1986 World Cup title, where he scored the famous "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century," remains one of the most memorable moments in football history. Although he fell just short in the 1990 World Cup final, his influence on the sport is immeasurable.

Cristiano Ronaldo, often compared with Messi in recent years, takes fourth place. Ronaldo is the top goalscorer in the history of football, with over 935 career goals. While he has not won a World Cup, he has secured the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the Nations League with Portugal, along with multiple domestic league titles in England, Spain, and Italy. His physical dominance, consistency, and goalscoring prowess have made him one of the greatest athletes of the 21st century.

The remaining players in the top 10 are equally legendary. In fifth is Johan Cruyff of the Netherlands, a pioneer of "Total Football" and one of the smartest minds to ever play the game. Ronaldo Nazario of Brazil is in sixth, known for his explosive pace and goalscoring talent, despite injuries hampering parts of his career.

Zinedine Zidane of France comes seventh, remembered for his elegance on the field and his key role in France's 1998 World Cup victory. German icon Franz Beckenbauer, who won the World Cup as both player and coach, is in eighth place. In ninth is Alfredo Di Stefano, who starred for Real Madrid and Argentina, and was known for his versatility and leadership. Closing the top 10 is Ronaldinho, the Brazilian magician whose joyful style and creativity thrilled fans worldwide.

Interestingly, the top 10 list includes three players each from Brazil and Argentina, showcasing the deep footballing heritage of both nations. Portugal, the Netherlands, France, and Germany each contribute one name to the elite group.

While the debate over the greatest of all time (GOAT) will likely continue, the IFFHS ranking recognizes Lionel Messi as the most complete and successful footballer in the sport's rich history.