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#2 Zinedine Zidane - 1998
Widely considered to be France's greatest footballer, Zinedine Zidane was an artist with the ball at his feet. The French genius was crucial to France's success in the 1998 World Cup before leading them to the World Cup finals again in 2006. In his illustrious career, Zidane made over 100 appearances for France and scored 31 goals.
With a brace against Brazil in the finals, Zidane ensured that France wins the 1998 FIFA world cup and he won the Ballon d'Or award for his exploits. He was also the main man for France in their Euro Cup triumph in 2000. Zidane also helped France reach the 2006 World Cup final. However his shocking headbutt to Marco Materazzi in the final unfortunately led to France's downfall against Italy.
In addition to his exploits for his nation, Zidane was a serial winner at Juventus and at Real Madrid. He won Serie A twice with Juventus before signing for Real Madrid.
The legendary midfielder then helped Los Blancos win the Champions League. His superb volley in the 2002 final still remains one of the greatest goals in the tournament's history.
With the ball at his feet, Zidane was capable of incredible things and he showed that countless times in his career. Besides his Ballon d'Or win in 1998, Zidane managed podium finishes in 1997 and 2000. He lost out to Ronaldo Nazario and Luis Figo respectively.
#1 Michel Platini - 1983, 1984, 1985
Michel Platini was one of the players who revolutionized the No. 10 role to become one of France's best players ever. He was good at playmaking due to his passing range and tactical intelligence but what was truly astounding was his penchant to find the net.
Platini represented France 72 times, racking up 41 goals in his esteemed career. The French legend scored nine goals in the 1984 Euro Cup, helping Les Bleus win their first Euro title. No one has scored more goals in a single Euro Cup ever since, which has shown his incredible impact on his nation.
At club level, Platini played for Nancy, Saint-Etienne and Juventus during his playing career. During his famed Juventus tenure, the France international won Serie A twice along with one European Cup. His time in the Italian top flight saw his legend grow, making him an immense favorite among fans.
Platini won the Ballon d'Or thrice which makes him the most successful French player in history.
