Who Is the Best Footballer of All Time? Messi Tops List

By Sarah Miller · November 22, 2042

When discussing who is the best footballer of all time, Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the top answer due to his unparalleled consistency, technical brilliance, trophy haul, and individual accolades, including a record eight Ballon d'Or awards.

Why Lionel Messi Is Considered the Greatest Footballer of All Time

Messi's claim to the title of the greatest stems from a combination of sustained excellence, statistical dominance, and transformative impact on the game. Over nearly two decades, he has redefined attacking play with his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability.

Key Factors Supporting Messi's Legacy

Record eight Ballon d'Or wins (2009–2023)
All-time leading scorer for club and country combined
Most assists in football history
Only player to win four consecutive Pichichi trophies (La Liga top scorer)
Scored over 800 career goals and recorded more than 350 assists
Won major international titles: FIFA World Cup (2022), Copa América (2021)

Messi vs. Ronaldo vs. Maradona: A Historical Comparison

The debate often centers around three names: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Diego Maradona. While each has unique strengths, Messi stands out for his natural talent, consistency, and team integration.

Playing Style and Influence

Messi: Low center of gravity, unmatched close control, spatial awareness, and creativity
Ronaldo: Physical dominance, aerial prowess, goal-scoring efficiency, longevity through athleticism
Maradona: Dribbling genius, leadership, single-handed match-winning performances (e.g., 1986 World Cup)

Player	Ballon d'Or Wins	Club Goals	International Goals	Major Trophies	World Cup Win
Lionel Messi	8	709	106	45	Yes (2022)
Cristiano Ronaldo	5	700+	130	34	No
Diego Maradona	1 (unofficial Ballon d'Or equivalent)	258	34	10	Yes (1986)
Pele	7 (unofficial; won South American Player of the Year 7 times)	680+	77	33+	Yes (1958, 1962, 1970)

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows Messi leads in Ballon d'Or wins and overall goal contributions while being the only one among them to win both the World Cup and Copa América. His trophy count surpasses Ronaldo’s despite playing in less dominant teams during key years. Maradona and Pele achieved legendary status but lacked the long-term statistical documentation and global competition level seen today.

Statistical Dominance Across Eras

Messi holds numerous records that reflect his all-around excellence:

Most goals in a calendar year: 91 (2012)
Most La Liga goals: 474
Most assists in European football history: over 300
Only player to score in every minute of a 90-minute match
Most games played for a single club (Barcelona): 778

International Success and Global Recognition

Messi’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory cemented his legacy beyond club football. Before that, critics questioned his international impact, despite reaching four finals (2014 World Cup, 2007, 2015, 2016 Copa América).

Milestones in International Career

First player to score in five different World Cups
All-time top assist provider in Copa América history
Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and appearance maker
Led Argentina to their first major title in 28 years (Copa América 2021)

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Footballer of All Time

Who has won the most Ballon d'Or awards in history?

Lionel Messi holds the record with eight Ballon d'Or wins (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023), making him the most decorated player in the award’s history.

Has Cristiano Ronaldo ever won the World Cup?

No, Cristiano Ronaldo has not won the FIFA World Cup. Portugal’s best finish during his career was third place in 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, though they won UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League 2019.

Did Diego Maradona win the Champions League?

No, Diego Maradona never won the UEFA Champions League. During his prime at Napoli (1984–1991), European competitions were dominated by clubs from England, Italy, and Germany, and Napoli’s peak was winning the UEFA Cup in 1989.

How many goals has Lionel Messi scored in his career?

As of 2025, Lionel Messi has scored over 800 official career goals and provided more than 350 assists across club and international football, according to Transfermarkt and FIFA records.

Is Lionel Messi better than Pele?

While Pele won three World Cups and scored over 600 goals, Messi's achievements come in a more competitive, globalized era with higher defensive organization and physical demands. Statistically and technically, most modern analysts rank Messi above Pele due to verifiable data, consistency, and versatility.