So who is the greatest soccer player in history?
Even if comparisons across epochs are difficult, BILD has put together a top 5.
In terms of players, Pelé (82) is still ahead of Lionel Messi (35). But he pushed himself ahead of compatriot Diego Maradona († 60) through the world title. Franz Beckenbauer (77) and Zinédine Zidane (50) follow on the places.
Requirement to get into the ranking list: The player had to be world champion at least once!
After THIS pilot announcement Argentina fans freak out on plane
PLATZ 5: ZINEDINE ZIDANE
Zinedine Zidane (centre) raises the World Cup trophy alongside Bixente Lizarazu (left) and Marcel Desailly
Zinedine Zidane led France to the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championships. Was also world footballer three times. Champions with Juventus in Italy (1997, 1998) and Real Madrid in Spain (2003). Also won the Champions League with Los Blancos (2002). In the final against Leverkusen (2:1) dream volley goal from the edge of the penalty area to victory.
4th PLACE: FRANZ BECKENBAUER
Franz Beckenbauer (middle) celebrates the 1974 World Cup victory with Sepp Maier
World and European Champion with Germany – Franz Beckenbauer cleared everything in his career! In addition, as an active player, he has won the European Cup of Champions three times and five German championships. Considered the inventor of the libero, the free man behind the defense. Is one of only three people who became world champions as a coach and player.
PLATZ 3: DIEGO MARADONA
June 29, 1986: Diego Maradona after beating Germany 3-2 in the final
With five goals and five assists, Diego Maradona almost single-handedly led Argentina to the 1986 World Cup title. His goal with the “Hand of God” and the 60-meter solo in the quarter-finals against England (2-1) will never be forgotten. Danced through opponents with the ball. Also twice Italian champion with Naples (1987, 1990), also won the Uefa Cup in 1989.
2ND PLACE: LIONEL MESSI
Lionel Messi (centre) celebrates with the 36.8 centimeter high and 6.175 kilogram World Cup trophy
Olympic champion, Copa América – and now finally world champion! Lionel Messi has won everything there is to win. With 26 World Cup appearances also a record player. Also won the Champions League four times with Barcelona. Won the Ballon d’Or as the best footballer in the world seven times.
PLATZ 1: SKIN
June 21, 1970: Pelé is carried on his hands after his third world title. In the 4-1 win against Italy, he scored one goal and submitted two more
Pelé played 92 caps for Brazil, scoring 77 goals (a record). Was the only player to be world champion three times (1958, 1962, 1970). Also won a total of 26 national and international titles with FC Santos in 17 years. His 1301 goals in 1390 games are also unmatched to this day.
