Ranking the 5 most skillful players in football history

FC Barcelona v Arsenal - Pre-Season Friendly
FC Barcelona v Arsenal - Pre-Season Friendly

#3 Pele

Pele had nothing but magic on his feet
Pele had nothing but magic on his feet

Apart from being regarded by many as the greatest player in football history, Pele is also recognized as one of the most skillful players the sport has witnessed. Like most Brazilian attackers, the legendary forward thrived off his ability to dismantle opposition defenders with brilliant pieces of skill during his playing days.

Pele announced himself to the football world at a very young age, winning his first FIFA World Cup at just 17 years old in 1958. The Brazilian ended up winning the prestigious trophy on two more occasions before retiring in 1971, earning him the record for the most triumphs in the competition's history.

At club level, the legendary forward claimed multiple titles playing for Santos, including the Brazilian league title, Copa Libertadores and the International Cup. He held the record for the most goals scored for a single club for several years before it was broken by Lionel Messi in December 2020.


#2 Zinedine Zidane

The Frenchman was a pure joy to watch
The Frenchman was a pure joy to watch

Known for his electrifying dribbles, incredible tricks and magical moves, it is no fluke that the Frenchman is ranked among the most skillful players in football history.

Zinedine Zidane was a huge force to be reckoned with during his active playing days, destroying even some of the greatest teams in the world with his magic. His performance against Brazil in the 2006 FIFA World Cup will be remembered for several years.

The legendary midfielder enjoyed a very successful career representing the likes of Juventus, Real Madrid and the French national team. He won several honors, including the World Cup, Champions League, La Liga, Ballon d'Or and many more.


#1 Ronaldinho

Arguably the most skillful player ever witnessed in football
Arguably the most skillful player ever witnessed in football

Ronaldinho belongs in a class of his own when it comes to rating the most skilled players in the history of football. In fact, it wouldn't be far-fetched to say the Brazilian is the epitome of skill in the sport.

Ronaldinho was getting applauded with every move he pulled off during his playing days. His movements, tricks and flicks came with so much flair that no one could resist falling in love with him.

Like the other names on this list, the Brazilian had a spectacular career, winning almost everything there's to win in the sport. He has two FIFA POTY awards, one Ballon d'Or, one World Cup trophy and one Champions League crown in his cabinet to mention just a few.

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