Ronaldo Nazario Lists His Top 8 Football Legends

The question of who stands as the greatest football player ever sparks endless debate. Usually, names like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominate this conversation, sharing an impressive 13 Ballons d'Or between them. Before their era, icons like Pele and Diego Maradona held sway, still widely respected in discussions about the best.

Ronaldo Nazario, the Brazilian legend, shared his personal list of eight players he believes belong to a "very special" group of the greatest ever during a 2022 interview with The Guardian. Surprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo was not on this list.

While it’s hard to argue against the chosen few, some notable exclusions include Michel Platini, Alfredo Di Stefano, Zinedine Zidane, George Best, and Ferenc Puskas. Still, it’s worth respecting the opinion of someone who reached the highest levels of football and is considered one of the best strikers in history.

1. Diego Maradona (Argentina - Attacking midfielder)

Maradona is often regarded as one of the game's legends. He played in four World Cups and led Argentina to victory in 1986. His club legacy shines brightest at Napoli, guiding them to their first Serie A title in 1986/87 and another a few years later. In Naples, Maradona is treated like a deity, with graffiti and merchandise honoring him everywhere. His flair was unforgettable, including that famous goal against England.

• Appearances: 435
• Goals: 194
• Assists: 134

2. Lionel Messi (Argentina - Forward)

From one Argentine icon to another, Lionel Messi might just edge out as the greatest. Now playing for Inter Miami, he has won every major title, including the 2022 World Cup, which might cement his GOAT status. His stats speak volumes: 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barcelona alone. But Messi is more than a scorer; he's also a record-breaking playmaker and dribbler with eight Ballon d'Or awards.

• Appearances: 1180
• Goals: 922
• Assists: 454

3. Johan Cruyff (Netherlands - Attacking midfielder)

Cruyff might not always be named the absolute best, but his influence on football is undeniable. Winning three Ballon d'Or awards (1971, 1973, 1974), he became a legend at Ajax and Barcelona. He's credited with inventing the 'Cruyff turn,' still used by players worldwide. Beyond playing, Cruyff had a notable managerial career, shaping modern football tactics.

• Appearances: 599
• Goals: 335
• Assists: 221

4. Franz Beckenbauer (Germany - Defender)

Ronaldo includes Beckenbauer as the greatest defender ever. The German helped pioneer the 'modern sweeper' role and is one of only nine players to have won the FIFA World Cup, European Champions Cup, and Ballon d'Or. Nearly 600 appearances for Bayern Munich saw him claim all possible titles, redefining what a defender could achieve.

• Appearances: 724
• Goals: 88
• Assists: 85

5. Pele (Brazil - Forward)

Pele's greatness is hard to measure because generations differ. Few witnessed his prime firsthand, but his impact is monumental. FIFA credits him with 1,281 goals in 1,363 games. He remains the only player to win three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970) and is a Santos legend whose influence shaped football history.

• Appearances: 1363
• Goals: 1281

6. Marco van Basten (Netherlands - Forward)

Van Basten is remembered as one of the finest strikers, despite retiring early at 28 due to injury. He earned three Ballon d'Or trophies (1988, 1989, 1992), lifted multiple Eredivisie titles and European trophies with Ajax and AC Milan. His 24 goals for the Netherlands included five in Euro 1988, where his stunning volley in the final sealed victory.

• Appearances: 431
• Goals: 301
• Assists: 92

7. Ronaldinho (Brazil - Winger)

Though rarely mentioned in GOAT debates, Ronaldinho’s brilliance was unique. His peak years at Barcelona in 2005/06 and 2006/07 were pure joy to watch. Known for dazzling skill and infectious smiles, he won the Ballon d'Or in 2005 and produced moments of magic that remain unforgettable.

• Appearances: 643
• Goals: 180
• Assists: 151

8. Ronaldo Nazario (Brazil - Forward)

Not shy about including himself, Ronaldo earned his spot among the greats. He was football’s first true superstar with incredible speed and skill, symbolized by his Nike Mercurial Vapors. Early career highlights include breaking transfer records moving from PSV to Barcelona, then Inter Milan, where he scored 59 goals in 99 games. Later, he netted 104 goals at Real Madrid before injuries slowed him down. Even so, his career remains legendary.

• Appearances: 553
• Goals: 360
• Assists: 108