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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated football for years now, and possess nine Champions League trophies between them. But while the legendary duo have captured everyone's attention, there are several other celebrated players that have also left quite an impression on fans during the last decade.
Here is a look at the top 10 footballers from the last 10 years:
#10 Robert Lewandowski
It's fair to say that Robert Lewandowski could thrive in any team. The Polish striker is the perfect balance of speed, power, and technique. At 32, it seems as though Lewandowski is ageing like fine wine. He was, by far, the best player during the 2019/2020 season of Bundesliga.
Lewandowski scored 34 goals in 31 matches in Bundesliga and a total of 55 goals during the season. This resulted in Lewandowski being awarded the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award. His 416 career goals is testimony to what a great player he is.
#9 Neymar Jr
A global icon and one of the most recognisable player in the world, Neymar Jr was once anticipated to become even bigger than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Luck hasn't been in his favor ever since he left Barcelona in 2017 to join PSG for $263 Million.
He hasn't been able to live up to expectations post his transfer due to injuries. Winning a Ballon d'Or can help go down in history as one of 'The Greats' provided he can avoid injuries in the next couple of years and stay in form.
#8 Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale rose to fame when he scored an incredible hat-trick against Inter Milan in the Champions League back in 2010. In 2013 he became the most expensive player in the world after joining Real Madrid for £85 million. At Real Madrid, he has had to battle injuries as well as a lot of criticism; nevertheless, a personal haul of 4 Champions League titles left everyone speechless. He created quite a stir with a stunning bicycle kick against Liverpool in the 2018 Champions League which led to their win. He is now back at Tottenham Hostpur on a season-long loan from Real Madrid after having a fall out with Zinedine Zidane.
#7 Luis Suarez
Luis Suarez has had an amazing career. He's scored 405 goals and has picked up a whopping 236 assists in 615 games. The Uruguayan has carried many trophies during his career including the Champions League trophy back in 2015 and four La Liga titles. Having recently joined Atletico Madrid after Barcelona, he's optimistic about adding more goals to his impressive tally.
#6 Dani Alves
Dani Alves over the past decade has won over 25 titles. The-37-year old player currently plays for Sao Paulo Alves and is still a part of Brazil's national team. He is a footballer who will be remembered for years to come.
#5 Xavi
It seems impossible that Xavi has never won a Ballon d'Or; nonetheless, three podium finishes are commendable. He played a total of 857 games and has proven himself time and time again on the field. It would be unlikely that we will ever see a player like Xavi again.
#4 Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos might be regarded as an unexpected addition especially this far down the list. However, he really does deserve a spot. Real Madrid has won 4 Champions League titles, 5 La Ligas, the UEFA EURO 2008, 2012 and the 2010 World Cup thanks to Ramos. The centre-back has had an unbelievable career and has led Real Madrid by example like a true leader.
#3 Andres Iniesta
Andres Iniesta is by far the best midfielder to ever play football in the last decade. During his tenure, he has helped Barcelona conquer all whom they played against. He is also the man responsible for helping Spain win the European Championships - twice! An incredible player in his prime.
#2 Lionel Messi
A hard decision putting Lionel Messi before Cristiano Ronaldo. Viewed by many as the world's best player having won 6 Ballon d'Ors as well as credited with scoring over 500 goals for Barcelona in the last 10 years.
During 2012 alone Messi scored an impressive 91 goals. Yes, 91 goals! A player who has been so loyal to Barcelona may be finally moving on from Barcelona in the summer of 2021. Manchester City could likely be the destination for the living legend. His only regret till date will be not having won the World Cup while playing for Argentina. He is considered to be one of the most consistent players in football and the 2022 World Cup is most likely to be the last few games that he will play.
#1 Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo has won it all in club football. He has won the Champions League - 5 times, La Liga - twice, the Premier League - thrice, and the list goes on! The difference between Messi and Ronaldo? Ronaldo has achieved enormous success at 3 of the top football clubs -- Manchester United, Real Madrid and presently Juventus. Whoever he plays for, he delivers. He also led Portugal to Euros glory in 2016. If Ronaldo could win the 2022 World Cup with Portugal, it would be nothing short of glorious.
