Acvolades:

• 2022 FIFA World Cup Winner
• 8× Ballon d’Or Winner (Most in History)
• 4× UEFA Champions League Winner
• All-Time Top Scorer for Barcelona & Argentina

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Background:‍

Born in 1987 in Rosario, Argentina, Messi moved to Barcelona’s La Masia academy at 13. He made his senior debut in 2004 and became their greatest player ever.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Messi has unparalleled dribbling, vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability. His 2022 World Cup win cemented his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.

Acvolades:

• 1986 FIFA World Cup Winner
• FIFA Goal of the Century (1986 "Goal vs. England")
• 2× Serie A Winner (Napoli)

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Background:‍

Born in 1960 in Argentina, Maradona played for Boca Juniors, Barcelona, and Napoli.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Maradona was the best dribbler in football history, capable of winning games single-handedly. His performance at the 1986 World Cup, including the "Hand of God" and the "Goal of the Century", is legendary.

Acvolades:

• 5× Ballon d’Or Winner
• 5× UEFA Champions League Winner
• All-Time Top Scorer in UCL and for Portugal

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Background:‍

Born in 1985 in Portugal, Ronaldo started at Sporting CP before moving to Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best goal-scorers in history, combining speed, power, aerial ability, and finishing. His work ethic and longevity have kept him at the top for nearly two decades.

Acvolades:

• 3× Ballon d’Or Winner
• 3× European Cup Winner
• Led Netherlands to 1974 World Cup Final

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Background:‍

Born in 1947 in the Netherlands, Cruyff played for Ajax and Barcelona.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Cruyff revolutionized football with Total Football, a tactical system where players interchange positions. His influence on modern football is immense.

Acvolades:

• 1998 FIFA World Cup Winner
• 2000 UEFA European Championship Winner
• 2002 UEFA Champions League Winner

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Background:‍

Born in 1972 in France, Zidane played for Juventus and Real Madrid.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Zidane was one of the most elegant midfielders ever, known for his technique, vision, and composure. His 2002 Champions League volley and two goals in the 1998 World Cup Final are legendary.

Acvolades:

• 2× FIFA World Cup Winner (1994, 2002)
• 2× Ballon d’Or Winner
• 1998 Golden Ball Winner

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Background:‍

Born in 1976 in Brazil, Ronaldo played for Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.

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Why He’s Great:‍

R9 was the most explosive striker ever, combining speed, dribbling, and finishing. Injuries robbed him of even greater success, but his 2002 World Cup performances are legendary.

Acvolades:

• 3× Ballon d’Or Winner
• 1984 UEFA European Championship Winner
• 3× Serie A Winner

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Background:‍

Born in 1955 in France, Platini played for Juventus and AS Nancy.

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Why He’s Great:‍

One of the best attacking midfielders ever, Platini dominated European football in the 1980s, leading France to its first major international trophy.

Acvolades:

• 2× FIFA World Player of the Year
• 2002 FIFA World Cup Winner
• 2006 UEFA Champions League Winner

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Background:‍

Born in 1980 in Brazil, Ronaldinho played for Barcelona, AC Milan, and PSG.

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Why He’s Great:‍

Ronaldinho was football’s most entertaining player ever, famous for his dribbling, tricks, and incredible goals. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 and was unstoppable at his peak.

Acvolades:

• 1× Ballon d’Or Winner (1968)
• 2× English League Winner

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Background:‍

Born in 1946 in Northern Ireland, Best played for Manchester United.

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Why He’s Great:‍

A dribbling genius, Best was one of football’s first global superstars. Despite his short career, he left a lasting impact.