Lionel Messi Crowned Greatest Footballer in History by IFFHS, Beating Pelé and Maradona

The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) has released its all-time Top 10 footballers, with Lionel Messi securing the No. 1 spot. The Argentine maestro, a World Cup (2022) and two-time Copa América champion, edged out Brazilian icon Pelé and fellow countryman Diego Maradona, who round out the podium.

Messi’s unparalleled consistency, trophy-laden career, and influence on modern football solidified his place atop the prestigious list. Meanwhile, Brazil emerged as the most represented nation, with three legends featured: Pelé (2nd), Ronaldo Nazário (6th), and Ronaldinho Gaúcho (10th).

The IFFHS All-Time Top 10 Greatest Footballers

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) 🇦🇷

2. Pelé (Brazil) 🇧🇷

3. Diego Maradona (Argentina) 🇦🇷

4. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) 🇵🇹

5. Johan Cruyff (Netherlands) 🇳🇱

6. Ronaldo Nazário (Brazil) 🇧🇷

7. Zinedine Zidane (France) 🇫🇷

8. Franz Beckenbauer (Germany) 🇩🇪

9. Alfredo Di Stéfano (Spain/Argentina) 🇪🇸

10. Ronaldinho Gaúcho (Brazil) 🇧🇷

Key Takeaways:

✅ Messi’s Legacy: The only player to win Ballon d’Or, World Cup, and multiple European Golden Shoes.
✅ Brazil’s Dominance: Leads with three entries, ahead of Argentina (2) and Portugal (1).
✅ Modern vs. Classic Debate: The ranking blends eras, weighing trophies, longevity, and cultural impact.