2010 Fifa World Cup Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

The 2010 FIFA World Cup was a monumental event in the world of football, as it marked the first time that an African nation had ever hosted such a tournament. Held from 11 June to 11 July 2010 in South Africa, 32 teams from across the globe competed for glory and international recognition. The atmosphere during this historic competition was electric and fans flocked from all over to witness what would be one of the most memorable events in recent sporting history.

Table of Contents

1. Diego Forlán

Uruguay national football team

Diego Forlán Career

  • 1990–1991: Peñarol
  • 1991–1994: Danubio
  • 1994–1997: Independiente
  • 1997–2002: Independiente
  • 2002–2004: Manchester United
  • 2004–2007: Villarreal
  • 2007–2011: Atlético Madrid
  • 2011–2012: Inter Milan
  • 2012–2014: Internacional
  • 2014–2015: Cerezo Osaka
  • 2015–2016: Peñarol
  • 2016: Mumbai City
  • 2018: Kitchee
  • 2002–2014: Uruguay
  • 2020: Peñarol
  • 2021: Atenas

Diego Forlán is a Uruguayan-born forward who has played for Manchester United, Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan. He made his debut for Independiente in 1997 and went on to score 74 goals in 106 appearances for the club.

Forlán joined Manchester United in 2002 and helped them win the Premier League title that season as well as the UEFA Champions League two years later. 

He left Old Trafford after four seasons to join Villarreal where he enjoyed more success, scoring 134 goals in 174 appearances over six seasons with the Yellow Submarine.

In 2011, he moved to Atlético Madrid where he won two La Liga titles before joining Inter Milan in 2012; however, he only featured 18 times during three years at San Siro due to various injuries sustained while playing football professionally.

Diego Forlán is a striker who has played for Uruguay and Cerezo Osaka in international football.

Diego Forlán was born on October 10, 1988 in the city of Montevideo. Diego Forlán started his professional career with Uruguayan side Cerro Largo before moving to Japanese outfit Cerezo Osaka in 2002. 

After spells at Atlético Madrid and Manchester United, Diego Forlán signed for Indian Super League club Mumbai City ahead of the 2018 season.

In total, he has made 525 appearances in International Football (202 for Uruguay and 336 for Cerezo Osaka). 

He also represented Uruguay at Copa America 2011 where they won the tournament title. Currently, Diego Forlán is contracted to Chinese Super League side Kitchee FC until 2021.

2. Thomas Müller

Germany national football team

Thomas Müller Career

  • 1993–2000: TSV Pähl
  • 2000–2008: Bayern Munich
  • 2008–2009: Bayern Munich II
  • 2008: Bayern Munich
  • 2004–2005: Germany U16
  • 2007: Germany U19
  • 2008: Germany U20
  • 2009: Germany U21
  • 2010: Germany

Thomas Müller is a German attacking midfielder who currently plays for Bayern Munich. Müller made his professional debut with TSV Pähl in 1993, and played for Bayern Munich from 2000 until 2008.

In total, Müller has made 423 appearances for Bayern Munich over the course of his career - scoring 139 goals along the way. 

Thomas Müller was part of Germany's victorious World Cup squad in 2014, and he also represented his country at Euro 2016 and the Confederations Cup in 2017.

He is widely regarded as one of Europe's finest attacking midfielders, and will be crucial to Bayern Munich as they attempt to retain their Bundesliga title this season. 

Müller is a German international footballer who has represented his country at the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.

Müller played for Bayern Munich before joining Manchester United in 2013. He helped the club win two Premier League titles, as well as the FA Cup and Europa League. 

Müller left United in 2018 to join Juventus, where he has helped them reach consecutive Serie A championships. In addition, he has won two Italian Cups and one Coppa Italia trophy with the club.

Müler made his debut for Germany in 2007 and since then has earned over 100 caps – appearing at both the World Cup and Euro Championships tournaments on multiple occasions throughout his career thus far. 

Thomas Müller was born on 1 January 1989 in Berlin, West Germany to parents Ursula (née Kupfer) and Markus Müller; he holds both German citizenship and an Egyptian passport due to his paternal heritage from that country’s president Mohamed Morsi family lineage.

3. Wesley Sneijder

Netherlands national football team

Wesley Sneijder Career

  • 1990–1991: DOS
  • 1991–2002: Ajax
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2002–2007: Ajax: 126: (43)
  • 2007–2009: Real Madrid: 52: (11)
  • 2009–2012: Inter Milan: 76: (13)
  • 2013–2017: Galatasaray: 124: (35)
  • 2017–2018: Nice: 5: (0)
  • 2018–2019: Al-Gharafa: 22: (15)
  • Total: : 405: (117)
  • 2000–2001: Netherlands U17: 6: (2)
  • 2001–2002: Netherlands U19: 8: (3)
  • 2003: Netherlands U21: 1: (0)
  • 2003–2018: Netherlands: 134: (31)

Wesley Sneijder is a Dutch footballer who plays for Turkish club Galatasaray, and previously played for Spanish clubs Real Madrid and Inter Milan. He spent his entire career at Ajax, making 126 appearances in all competitions for the Amsterdam-based side before moving to Real Madrid in 2007.

After two seasons with Los Blancos, he moved on to Italian side Inter Milan where he won the Serie A title twice during his time there, as well as being named in the 2011–12 UEFA Champions League Team of the Year. 

In January 2017, Sneijder joined Turkish giants Galatasaray after agreeing to a three-and-a-half year deal worth €15 million euros per season).

The following May 2018 saw him return to former club Nice on a five-month loan spell.[4] However this stint was cut short due to injury.[5] 

Wesley Sneijder made his international debut aged 17 years and 111 days,[6] coming on as a late substitute for Wim Kieft in Netherlands' 2–1 victory over Scotland at Hampden Park on 11 November 2002.

He has since scored 34 goals from 101 caps, helping Holland win back-to-back World Cups (2010 & 2014).

4. Luis Suárez

Club Nacional de Football

Luis Suárez Career

  • 1991–1994: Artigas de Salto
  • 1994–2000: Urreta
  • 2001–2005: Nacional
  • 2005–2006: Nacional
  • 2006–2007: Groningen
  • 2007–2011: Ajax
  • 2011–2014: Liverpool
  • 2014–2020: Barcelona
  • 2020–2022: Atlético Madrid
  • 2022: Nacional
  • 2023: Grêmio
  • 2006–2007: Uruguay U20
  • 2012: Uruguay Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2007: Uruguay

Luis Suárez is a talented Uruguayan striker who has had an illustrious career playing for top teams in Europe. 

Suarez signed with Premier League club Liverpool in January 2014, and helped the team win the Champions League in 2015.

In May 2018, he was banned from international football by FIFA after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during a World Cup match. Suarez returned to action with Grêmio in July 2018 and scored twice against Cruzeiro on his return to competitive play.

He is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in history, and is often compared to former Liverpool teammates Ian Rush and Fernando Torres. Luis Alberto Suárez Díaz was born on 24 January 1987 in Salto , Uruguay. 

At 1'82 m (6 ft 0 ins), he typically plays as a striker for clubs such as Groningen, Barcelona, Liverpool Fc., Napoli FC Ajax Amsterdam,[5], Sevilla FC, Atlético Madrid and Manchester United.

His association with these clubs spans over ten years across three continents; South America (Atletico Madrid), Europe (Liverpool) & Asia Pacific Region(Ajax Amsterdam). 

After making his senior debut at Nacional aged just 17 years old, Suarez went onto score 127 goals before joining English side Liverpool Football Club for £22 million ($34 million). "Suarez joins Van Persie & Rooney atop all-time goal scorers.

The Telegraph 16th August 2017 Luis Suárez is a world-renowned striker who has played for several top clubs, most notably Liverpool and Barcelona.

He is well known for his explosive pace and powerful shot, which has earned him numerous accolades over the years. In 2011 he was banned from football by FIFA after biting an opponent during a match in Italy; however, this ban was later overturned on appeal. 

Suárez recently announced he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season to join Barcelona in a move that is sure to cause controversy again. 

His outstanding skills have made him one of the most popular players in world football, and he remains one of Uruguay's most iconic exports.

5. Arjen Robben

Netherlands national football team

Arjen Robben Career

  • 1989–1996: vv Bedum
  • 1996–2000: Groningen
  • 2000–2002: Groningen
  • 2002–2004: PSV
  • 2004–2007: Chelsea
  • 2007–2009: Real Madrid
  • 2009–2019: Bayern Munich
  • 2020–2021: Groningen
  • 1999: Netherlands U15
  • 1999–2000: Netherlands U16
  • 2000: Netherlands U17
  • 2001–2002: Netherlands U19
  • 2001–2003: Netherlands U21
  • 2003–2017: Netherlands

Arjen Robben is a Dutch footballer who plays for Bayern Munich in the German Bundesliga. He has also played for PSV, Chelsea and Real Madrid. Arjen Robben was born on 23 January 1984 in Bedum, Netherlands.

At age 38, Arjen Robben is still playing football at a high level and he will continue to do so with Bayern Munich until 2021. In 2000, Arjen Robben joined Groningen from Bedum and made 46 appearances over two seasons with them before moving to PSV in 2004.

Where he would make 56 appearances over the next three years before signing for Chelsea in 2007 where he enjoyed great success winning 3 Premier League titles (2007-2010) as well as 2 FA Cups (2008-09).

After leaving Chelsea following their victory in the 2012 UEFA Champions League Final against Manchester United, Arjen signed for Real Madrid where he spent four successful seasons making 50 appearances while also helping his team win both La Liga (2013-14) and Copa del Rey (2014). 

On 1 July 2019 it was announced that Arjen Robben had signed a new contract with Bayern Munich which will keep him at the club until 2021.

During his time at Bayern Munich, ArhenRobbens's main contribution has been through assists rather than goals; nevertheless hes netted 99 times during 201 league matches.

Arjen Robben has represented Holland 73 times scoring 16 goals including 3 internationals against Spain(2005), Brazil(2010), Argentina(2015).

Also Played For: fc groningen, psv

6. Iker Casillas

Real Madrid CF

Iker Casillas Career

  • 1990–1998: Real Madrid
  • 1998–1999: Real Madrid C
  • 1999: Real Madrid B
  • 1999–2015: Real Madrid
  • 2015–2020: Porto
  • 1996: Spain U15
  • 1996–1998: Spain U16
  • 1997–1999: Spain U17
  • 1999: Spain U18
  • 1999: Spain U20
  • 1999–2000: Spain U21
  • 2000–2016: Spain

Iker Casillas is a world-renowned goalkeeper who has played for Real Madrid for the past 16 years. 

In 1996, Casillas made his international debut for Spain U15s and has since gone on to win over 60 caps, representing his country at various tournaments including Euro 2004 and the World Cup in 2014.

Known as one of the best goalkeepers in history, Casillas was honored with a prestigious Ballon d'Or award in 2009 and was also named Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year four times during his career with Porto. 

After retiring from football at the end of 2020, Casillas will continue to support Real Madrid both on and off the pitch.

Casillas is a world-renowned goalkeeper and captain of the Spanish club Real Madrid. He made his international debut in 1999 and has represented Spain at the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Confederations Cup. 

Casillas also won the Champions League twice with Real Madrid before joining Barcelona in 2006 where he helped them win two La Liga titles.

In 2016 Casillas moved to America to play for LA Galaxy but retired from professional football after one season due to an injury sustained during pre-season training.

7. Lionel Messi

Paris Saint-Germain F.C.

Lionel Messi Career

  • 1992–1995: Grandoli
  • 1995–2000: Newell's Old Boys
  • 2000–2003: Barcelona
  • 2003–2004: Barcelona C
  • 2004–2005: Barcelona B
  • 2004–2021: Barcelona
  • 2021– Paris Saint-Germain

Lionel Messi is a world-renowned soccer player who plays for Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain. At just age 17, Lionel Messi made his professional debut with Barcelona C in 2003.

In 2005, he was promoted to Barcelona B where he spent four seasons before joining PSG in 2009. 

He has won numerous accolades including five La Liga titles (2008–11, 2013–16), three Champions League crowns (2009–10, 2015–17), two Club World Cup trophies (2013 and 2016) as well as an Olympic gold medal with Argentina in the 2012 London Olympics.

With over 500 career appearances and 350 goals scored, Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest football players of all time. Lionel Messi is a supremely talented footballer who has dominated the game for many years. 

He was born in Rosario, Argentina, on October 17th 1988 and began his career with local club Newell's Old Boys. In 2004 he transferred to Barcelona where he quickly became one of the best players in world football.

Messi has won countless awards including five Ballon d'Or titles, three Champions League crowns and two La Liga titles amongst others. 

His international career has also been extremely successful as he has represented Argentina at numerous major tournaments including the FIFA World Cup, Copa America and Euro 2016 among others. 

With so much success behind him it is no surprise that Messi will continue to be one of the most high-profile players in world football for many years to come.

8. Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal national football team

Cristiano Ronaldo Career

  • 1992–1995: Andorinha
  • 1995–1997: Nacional
  • 1997–2002: Sporting CP
  • 2002–2003: Sporting CP B
  • 2002–2003: Sporting CP
  • 2003–2009: Manchester United
  • 2009–2018: Real Madrid
  • 2018–2021: Juventus
  • 2021–2022: Manchester United
  • 2023: Al Nassr
  • 2001: Portugal U15
  • 2001–2002: Portugal U17
  • 2003: Portugal U20
  • 2002–2003: Portugal U21
  • 2004: Portugal U23
  • 2003: Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest football players in history. He started his career at Sporting CP and went on to play for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Ronaldo led Portugal to victory at the 2018 World Cup, becoming the most successful player in their history. 

In 2017 he was named FIFA Player of the Year after scoring 32 goals in 36 appearances for the club and country that year.

Ronaldo has been married to Russian model Irina Shayk since 2009 and they have two children together - Cristiano Jr., who is nine years old, and Eva, who is seven years old. Ronaldo's net worth as of 2019 is estimated at $365 million dollars.

Cristiano Ronaldo is a world-renowned football player who has played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, such as Manchester United and Real Madrid.

He is one of Portugal's most successful athletes ever, having won numerous awards and medals including two UEFA European Championships. 

Ronaldo was born in Lisbon, Portugal on December 13th 1988 and began playing football at an early age with local club Farense FC. 

After impressing during his time at Farense, he moved to Sporting CP where he became one of Europe's top young talents before joining Manchester United in 2003 for £12 million (an American record).

At Manchester United, Ronaldo helped lead them to several Premier League titles and Champions League successes; however, his greatest achievements came when he led. 

Portugal to their first major international tournament victory since 1966 by winning the 2016 UEFA European Championship trophy with Real Madrid later that year. 

In 2018 Cristiano Ronaldo joined Juventus for a fee reported to be around €100 million (£89million), becoming the Italian champions' all-time leading goalscorer after netting 98 times in total throughout his career so far.

Breaking both Alessandro Del Piero’s record and scoring more goals than any other footballer in Serie A history.

In 2019 CR7 announced his retirement from professional football but will continue playing for Portuguese side Al Nassr until 2021 whilst also coaching youngsters within the club's academy system.

9. Lukas Podolski

Germany national football team

Lukas Podolski Career

  • 1991–1995: FC 07 Bergheim
  • 1995–2003: 1. FC Köln
  • 2003–2004: 1. FC Köln II
  • 2003–2006: 1. FC Köln
  • 2006–2009: Bayern Munich
  • 2007–2008: Bayern Munich II
  • 2009–2012: 1. FC Köln
  • 2012–2015: Arsenal
  • 2015: → Inter Milan (loan)
  • 2015–2017: Galatasaray
  • 2017–2020: Vissel Kobe
  • 2020–2021: Antalyaspor
  • 2021–: Górnik Zabrze
  • 2001–2002: Germany U17
  • 2002–2003: Germany U18
  • 2003: Germany U19
  • 2004: Germany U21
  • 2004–2017: Germany

Podolski is a Polish international footballer who plays for German club, Górnik Zabrze. Podolski began his career at 1. FC Köln before moving to Bundesliga side1.

FC Köln II in 2003. In 2006, he joined Premier League side Arsenal where he scored 49 goals in 140 appearances over six years and helped the Gunners win two FA Cups and the Europa League in that time.

He then signed for Italian Serie A champions Juventus on a free transfer in 2015 but left after one season due to personal reasons.

Podolski re-joined Arsenal on a three-year deal worth £15million prior to their 2017–18 campaign; however, injury restricted him to only 16 appearances which led to his departure from the Emirates Stadium at the end of June 2019.

On 6 July 2019, it was announced that Podolski had rejoined former team Górnik Zabrze, signing an initial three-year contract with them.

Also Played For: fc koln

10. Andrés Iniesta

Vissel Kobe

Andrés Iniesta Career

  • 1994–1996: Albacete
  • 1996–2001: Barcelona
  • 2001–2003: Barcelona B
  • 2002–2018: Barcelona
  • 2018: Vissel Kobe
  • 2000: Spain U15
  • 2000–2001: Spain U16
  • 2001: Spain U17
  • 2001–2002: Spain U19
  • 2003: Spain U20
  • 2003–2006: Spain U21
  • 2004–2005: Catalonia
  • 2006–2018: Spain

Andrés Iniesta is a Spanish midfielder who has played for Barcelona and Vissel Kobe. He first came to prominence with Albacete, before joining Barcelona in 2001.

Iniesta was an integral part of the team that won two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey during his time at Barca, as well as the Champions League twice. After leaving Barcelona in 2018, he signed for Japanese side Vissel Kobe.

Andrés Iniesta is one of Spain's most capped players, having represented his country over 400 times across all levels including 114 appearances for Barcelona Andrés Iniesta is a Spanish professional footballer who has played for Barcelona and the Spain national team.

He started his career with Barcelona, playing in their youth teams before making his senior debut in 2003. 

After impressing during loan spells at Valencia and Atlético Madrid, he returned to Barcelona in 2006 where he became one of their most important players, winning six La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns over the next seven years.

He represented Spain at three World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014), as well as Euro 2008 and 2012 Olympics without ever reaching the final stage of either competition. 

In 2017–18 season he helped Barcelona win a historic treble by also winning the Copa del Rey and UEFA Super Cup trophies on route to becoming only player to have won all four major domestic leagues in Europe's top five leagues twice consecutively (2008-12).

On 15 November 2018, aged 34 years old Andres was announced as manager of FC Bayern Munich following Jupp Heynckes' departure from the club after 16 seasons managing it.

Also Played For: la liga, spain national football team

11. Xavi

FC Barcelona

Xavi Career

  • 1984–1997: Barcelona
  • 1997–1999: Barcelona B
  • 1998–2015: Barcelona
  • 2015–2019: Al Sadd
  • 1997: Spain U17
  • 1997–1998: Spain U18
  • 1999: Spain U20
  • 1998–2001: Spain U21
  • 2000: Spain U23
  • 2000–2014: Spain
  • 2019–2021: Al Sadd
  • 2021: Barcelona

Xavi is a Spanish midfielder who has spent his entire career with Barcelona. Xavi was part of the Barca youth system and made his senior debut in 1997. He went on to play 505 games for the club, scoring 82 goals.

Xavi played for Spain at every level from Under-16 to World Cup winning manager Vicente del Bosque's final squad in 2014. 

In September 2015, Xavi announced that he would be retiring from professional football after 15 seasons with Barcelona and three years with Al Sadd (Qatar).

Since retirement, Xavi has worked as a television pundit and coach, most notably taking charge of Spain's national team at Euro 2020 qualifying matches in October 2019. Xavier Hernández Creus was born on 25 January 1980 in Terrassa, Catalonia, Spain.

After starting out playing for local side FC Barcelona B, he signed for La Liga powerhouse Barcelona[3] during the summer of 1997 alongside teammates Ronaldinho, Deco, Steve McManaman, Rafael Nadal, Samuel Eto'o, Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Fernando Torres.

All players who had just won their first Ballon d'Or award or were considered superstars by many observers around the world: "Barcelona have acquired an absolutely colossal signing when they sign 19-year-old midfield wizard Xavier Hernandez Creus."

At only 18 years old however it quickly became apparent that this new phenom had exceptional potential.

Becoming one of only two players ever to make over 100 appearances before turning 20 – alongside Zinedine Zidane – whilst being captain of both Club Baskonia (1997–1998) and then newly promoted Valencia CF (1999).

Xavier also captained Albacete Balompié), representing Castile & León at U17s level before making his full international début aged 21 against Macedonia coming off the bench late on as a substitute replacing Carlos Puyol.

His performances caught Del Bosque's eye which eventually led him into contention for UEFA Euro 2000 where despite not featuring until extra time in our eventual 4th place finish losing 1–0 to Germany due to Andreas Brehme’s 88th minute equalizer; seeing action + started 3 times throughout tournament including 2 Group.

Also Played For: spain national under-21 football team, laliga

12. Miroslav Klose

Germany national football team

Miroslav Klose Career

  • 1987–1998: SG Blaubach-Diedelkopf
  • 1998–1999: FC 08 Homburg II
  • 1998–1999: FC 08 Homburg
  • 1999–2001: 1. FC Kaiserslautern II
  • 1999–2004: 1. FC Kaiserslautern
  • 2004–2007: Werder Bremen
  • 2007–2011: Bayern Munich
  • 2011–2016: Lazio
  • 2001–2014: Germany
  • 2016–2018: Germany (assistant)
  • 2018–2020: Bayern Munich U17
  • 2020–2021: Bayern Munich (assistant)
  • 2022: Rheindorf Altach

Klose is one of the most prolific strikers in Bundesliga history, having scored over 100 goals in his career. Klose started his professional career at SG Blaubach-Diedelkopf before joining.

FC Kaiserslautern in 1999. Klose spent four seasons with Werder Bremen and helped them win the German Cup in 2004 and 2007. In 2007, he joined Bayern Munich where he won multiple titles including the Champions League twice (2013–14, 2015–16).

He retired from professional football in 2017 after a season with Lazio Rome. Klose has been head coach of Rheindorf Altach since October 2018. Klose is a world-class striker and was one of the standout players at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Klose began his career with Bayern Munich, where he spent nine seasons and won three Bundesliga titles, two DFB Cups, and the Champions League in 2013.

He then moved to Lazio for four years before joining Bayer Leverkusen in January 2016. Klose has 117 international goals from 137 appearances for Germany, making him their all-time leading scorer alongside Gerd Müller and Lothar Matthäus. 

He retired from international football after scoring against Sweden in the 2018 World Cup group stage finale but returned to play for Germany's under-17 team later that year.

Also Played For: ss lazio, germany

13. David Villa

Spain national football team

David Villa Career

  • 1991–1999: Langreo
  • 1999–2000: Sporting Gijón
  • 2000–2001: Sporting Gijón B
  • 2001–2003: Sporting Gijón
  • 2003–2005: Real Zaragoza
  • 2005–2010: Valencia
  • 2010–2013: Barcelona
  • 2013–2014: Atlético Madrid
  • 2014–2018: New York City FC
  • 2014: Melbourne City (loan)
  • 2019–2020: Vissel Kobe
  • 2001–2002: Asturias
  • 2002–2003: Spain U21
  • 2005–2017: Spain

David Villa is a Spanish international striker who has played for Valencia, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. He was born in Langreo, Province of Asturias in 1981 and began his career at local club Sporting Gijón before moving to Real Zaragoza in 2000.

After helping Valencia win the La Liga title in 2006–07, he moved to Barcelona where he won two more league titles (2009–10 and 2011–12) as well as the Champions League twice (2007-08 and 2013-14).

In January 2014, Villa signed for Atlético Madrid on a free transfer after seven years with Barcelona.

Atletico Madrid reached the UEFA Europa League final that season but lost to Sevilla FC on penalties following a 0-0 draw in the final. David Villa represented Spain at Euro 2004, the 2010 World Cup[5] and Euro 2012.

He also took part at both the 2005 Confederations Cup as well as UEFA European Championship 2008, scoring once against Greece during group stage play while representing Spain at both tournaments.

On 24 November 2017, aged 41, Villa announced his retirement from professional football due to injury; however he said that he would continue playing for Valencia's B team until 2020.David Villa Sánchez" 3 December 1981 Langreo, Asturias, Span Origin.

 Langreo ClubJoined Sporting Gijón 1999 Left Zaragoza 2003 Signed by Real Zaragoza 2005 Joined Valenica 2006 Won La Liga 2007 Lost Champions League Final 2009.

Won Copa del Rey 2010 Played for Spain Euro 2004 2010 World Cup Finished 16th Group Stage WC 2012 Played 2 matches Portugal & 1 match Andorra 2016 Retired.

Also Played For: new york city fc, real zaragoza

14. Landon Donovan

United States men's national soccer team

Landon Donovan Career

  • 1999: IMG Academy
  • 1999–2000: Bayer Leverkusen II
  • 2000–2005: Bayer Leverkusen
  • 2001–2004: San Jose Earthquakes (loan)
  • 2005–2014: LA Galaxy
  • 2009: Bayern Munich (loan)
  • 2010: Everton (loan)
  • 2012: Everton (loan)
  • 2016: LA Galaxy
  • 2018: León
  • 2019: San Diego Sockers (indoor)
  • 1998–1999: United States U17
  • 2001: United States U20
  • 2000–2004: United States U23
  • 2000–2014: United States
  • 2019: United States (arena)
  • 2020–2022: San Diego Loyal

Landon Donovan is a former American professional soccer player who played for LA Galaxy and Bayern Munich. He was born in Ontario, California on March 4th 1982.

Donovan started his career with Bayer Leverkusen II before joining San Jose Earthquakes on loan in 2001. After leaving San Jose Earthquakes, Landon signed for LA Galaxy where he made 247 appearances over the course of 11 seasons.

In 2009, he joined Bundesliga side Bayern Munich on loan and helped them win the Champions League that season. 

He returned to Everton in 2012 after two years at Bayern Munich and retired from playing professionally at the end of 2014 Landon Donovan is a retired American soccer player who represented his country in 157 appearances.

He first came to prominence as a member of the United States U23 team, where he helped them win the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup and 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying tournaments. 

Donovan later spent time with Spanish club Valencia before joining Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy in 2006. With LA Galaxy, Donovan won two MLS Cups (2008, 2011) and was also named league MVP twice (2007, 2010).

After leaving LA Galaxy at the end of the 2014 season, Donovan signed with English club Everton but only made one appearance for them before retiring from professional football aged 36 years old in 2016. 

Since retiring from playing professionally, Landon has been involved in coaching both at youth level and abroad with AC Milan and Liga MX side León respectively.

15. Manuel Neuer

Germany national football team

Manuel Neuer Career

  • 1991–2005: Schalke 04
  • 2004–2008: Schalke 04 II
  • 2005–2011: Schalke 04
  • 2011: Bayern Munich
  • 2004: Germany U18
  • 2004–2005: Germany U19
  • 2005–2006: Germany U20
  • 2006–2009: Germany U21
  • 2009: Germany

Manuel Neuer is a goalkeeper for Bayern Munich and one of the best in the world. He started his career at Schalke 04, where he won two Bundesliga titles and was voted German Footballer of the Year twice.

In 2011, Neuer moved to Bayern Munich and has since been an ever-present fixture in their squad. 

He made his international debut for Germany in 2007 and has gone on to make over 100 appearances for his country.

Neuer is renowned for his shot-stopping abilities and is considered by many to be one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. 

With more than 322 appearances under his belt, Manuel Neuer remains a key player for Bayern Munich going into the future seasons Manuel Neuer is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and has been a mainstay for his country at international tournaments.

He began his career at Bayern Munich, where he spent eight seasons before joining Manchester United in 2013. At Old Trafford, he made over 100 appearances and helped United win two Premier League titles and an FA Cup. 

In 2017, Neuer moved to FC Barcelona where he has already won two La Liga titles as well as being named captain of the club this season. 

The 31-year-old looks set to continue playing into his 30s as he currently boasts a clean sheet record in all competitions for FC Barcelona this season so far.

16. Mesut Özil

İstanbul Başakşehir F.K.

Mesut Özil Career

  • 1995–1998: Westfalia 04 Gelsenkirchen
  • 1998–1999: Teutonia Schalke-Nord
  • 1999–2000: Falke Gelsenkirchen
  • 2000–2005: Rot-Weiss Essen
  • 2005–2006: Schalke 
  • 2005: Schalke 
  • 2006–2008: Schalke 
  • 2008–2010: Werder Bremen
  • 2010–2013: Real Madrid
  • 2013–2021: Arsenal
  • 2021–2022: Fenerbahçe
  • 2022 İstanbul Başakşehir
  • 2006–2007: Germany U19
  • 2007–2009: Germany U21
  • 2009–2018: Germany

Mesut Özil is a German footballer who plays for the Turkish club Istanbul Başakşehir as an attacking midfielder. He has previously played for Schalke 04, Rot-Weiss Essen and Schalke 04 again.

October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, West Germany to father Mustafa and mother Emine. At the age of five, he began playing football with local team Westfalia 04 Gelsenkirchen before moving on to play for Teutonia Schalke-Nord from 1998–1999 onwards.

In 2000, he joined Rot-Weiss Essen where he made over 200 appearances across all competitions before signing for Bundesliga side Schalke 04 in 2005 which would be his final season at a senior level prior to joining Turkish club İstanbul Başakşehir in 2019 as a free agent.

Germany at the youth level but did not make any appearances during his time with the under-21s or full national side until 2011 when he came on as a substitute against England and scored one goal within 10 minutes of coming onto the pitch.

It wasn’t long after that performance that Özil captured international attention when he started scoring goals regularly even starting up front instead of being used more defensively due to his impressive display.

His most successful year thus far came in 2018 when he won both the FIFA World Cup Best Player Award[4] and UEFA Europa League Golden Boot award,[5] becoming only the second player (after Lionel Messi) ever to win both awards.

Aside from winning accolades domestically, Özil also became known for performing impressively despite often facing criticism from sections of English media due to a perceived lack of effort. 

Despite having several offers from top European clubs including Barcelona, Manchester United[13], Juventus Real Madrid Arsenal Chelsea Liverpool, etc.

It was decided by Mesut Ozil himself that he wanted to move back home and join former manager Arsene Wenger at newly appointed Premier League outfit Arsenal FC ahead of their 2017/2018 campaign. 

The Gunners went undefeated throughout this inaugural season picking up silverware along the way such as FA Cup, Community Shield & EFL Cup.

17. Park Ji-sung

South Korea national football team

Park Ji-sung Career

  • 1993–1995: Anyong Middle School
  • 1996–1998: Suwon Technical High School
  • 1999–2000: Myongji University
  • 2000–2003: Kyoto Purple Sanga
  • 2003–2005: PSV Eindhoven
  • 2005–2012: Manchester United
  • 2012–2014: Queens Park Rangers
  • 2013–2014: PSV Eindhoven (loan)
  • 2000: South Korea U20
  • 1999–2004: South Korea U23
  • 2000–2011: South Korea

Park Ji-sung is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Queens Park Rangers. He began his career at Anyong Middle School before moving to Suwon Technical High School, where he won the National Youth Championship in 1998.

After two seasons with Kyoto Purple Sanga, Park joined Kyocera Bluewings of Japan's J1 League in 2003 and helped them win the league title that season. 

In 2006, he returned to South Korea and signed with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC before joining QPR in 2007 on a free transfer; he went on to make over 150 appearances for the R's over six years until leaving in 2015.

During his time at QPR, Park was voted Player of the Year twice (2009–10 and 2011–12) and won an FA Cup medal during his first spell there (2008). He has also represented South Korea at international level, earning 58 caps and scoring 10 goals between 2003 and 2012.

Also Played For: queens park rangers f.c, south korea national football team

18. Keisuke Honda

Japan national football team

Keisuke Honda Career

  • 1994–1998: Settsu FC
  • 1999–2001: Gamba Osaka
  • 2002–2004: Seiryo High School
  • 2004–2007: Nagoya Grampus Eight
  • 2008–2009: VVV-Venlo
  • 2010–2013: CSKA Moscow
  • 2014–2017: AC Milan
  • 2017–2018: Pachuca
  • 2018–2019: Melbourne Victory
  • 2019: Vitesse
  • 2020: Botafogo
  • 2021: Neftçi Baku
  • 2021: Sūduva Marijampole
  • 2005: Japan U20
  • 2006–2008: Japan U23
  • 2008–2019: Japan
  • 2018–2023: Cambodia (general manager)
  • 2023: Cambodia U-23 (general manager)

Honda started his career with Settsu FC in 1994. He moved to Gamba Osaka in 1999 and played for the club until 2001. Honda then joined CSKA Moscow where he spent four seasons, making 94 appearances and scoring 20 goals.

In 2010, Honda transferred to Dutch side VVV-Venlo before signing for Cambodian side Cambodia U-23 as a general manager earlier this year. Keisuke Honda is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for AC Milan and the Japan national team.

He started his career with Kyoto Purple Sanga in 2005, before transferring to JEF United Chiba in 2007. In 2009, he moved abroad to play for Spanish side Real Madrid and won back-to-back La Liga titles that year and 2010–11 UEFA Champions League trophy. 

After two years at Bayern Munich, Honda returned to Japan to join Chelsea where he won another Premier League title in 2013–14 season as well as the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2014–15 season.

During his time at Stamford Bridge, Honda also made 36 appearances for the senior Japan national team across three World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018). 

After leaving Chelsea after their relegation from the Premier League in 2017, Honda joined Pachuca on a one-year contract but left them midway through 2018 due to injury problems which saw him miss most of the Clausura tournament.

This led him to drop down several pecking orders within JFA's squad selection policy towards 2020 onwards leading up to Tokyo2020 Olympic qualifiers campaign which eventually ended unsuccessfully with 0 points from 6 matches played including 1 loss against. 

Qatar representative football team making it Keisuke Honda last appearance representing Japan nationally football team internationally until now 2019 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Jordan.

Also Played For: japan football team

19. Bastian Schweinsteiger

FC Bayern Munich

Bastian Schweinsteiger Career

  • 1990–1992: FV Oberaudorf
  • 1992–1998: TSV 1860 Rosenheim
  • 1998–2002: Bayern Munich
  • 2001–2005: Bayern Munich II
  • 2002–2015: Bayern Munich
  • 2015–2017: Manchester United
  • 2017–2019: Chicago Fire
  • 2000: Germany U16
  • 2001–2002: Germany U18
  • 2002–2003: Germany U19
  • 2004: Germany U21
  • 2004–2016: Germany

Bastian Schweinsteiger is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Manchester United. He started his career with Bayern Munich, before moving to England to play for Manchester United and Chicago Fire.

Bastian Schweinsteiger has won multiple titles with Bayern Munich and Manchester United, including the Bundesliga title, Champions League title and Europa League title. In 2015 he joined MLS side Chicago Fire on a one-year deal but left after only eight appearances due to injury.

Bastian Schweinsteiger was born in Kolbermoor, West Germany on 1 August 1984. He began playing football at FV Oberaudorf in 1990.

After two years with TSV 1860 Rosenheim, he moved to Bayern Munich in 1998 where he made over 350 appearances, winning multiple titles including three Bundesliga championships (2001–03), two Champions League titles (2002–05) and the Europa League title in 2013.

On 31 May 2017 it was announced that Bastian Schweinsteiger had signed for Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire on a one-year contract.

However, after just 8 appearances due to injury[6], he departed the club within days of joining. Since leaving MLS, Bastian Schweinsteiger has returned home to play for Austrian side Vienna FC until the end of season 2020/21.

Also Played For: fc bayern munich

20. Fernando Muslera

Galatasaray S.K.

Fernando Muslera Career

  • 2001–2004: Montevideo Wanderers
  • 2004–2007: Montevideo Wanderers
  • 2006–2007: Nacional (loan)
  • 2007–2011: Lazio
  • 2011: Galatasaray
  • 2003: Uruguay U17
  • 2004–2005: Uruguay U20
  • 2009: Uruguay

Muslera is a goalkeeper who has played for Montevideo Wanderers and Galatasaray in his career. He was born in 1986, making him 36 years old as of 2019. Muslera is 1.90 m (6 ft 3 inches) tall and plays for Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig.

He made his professional debut with Montevideo Wanderers in 2004, at the age of 16.[5] In 2007, he moved to Galatasaray and has since made over 200 appearances for them,[6] including 51 during the 2018–19 season.

Muslera was part of Argentina's squad that competed at the 2010 World Cup,[8][9][10] and also played at UEFA Euro 2016. 

On 30 October 2019, Muslera celebrated 10 years with Galatasaray after signing a new contract until 2023 which will keep him at club till 35 yo Muslera is a Uruguayan footballer who plays for Turkish club Galatasaray. 

He has represented his country internationally on several occasions and won the Copa América in 2011 with Argentina.

Muslera started his career at hometown side Nacional, making over 100 appearances before joining Lazio in 2007. After two years he moved to Turkish side Galatasaray where he has since made 354 appearances, winning one title (the Süper Lig) along the way. 

Muslera is known for being an excellent sweeper-keeper and possesses great reflexes which have helped him keep many clean sheets throughout his career; this was especially evident during the 2011 Copa América where he kept seven consecutive clean sheets en route to victory for Argentina.

Despite being primarily a goalkeeper, Muslera has also been used as a defensive midfielder on occasion; most notably during Uruguay's run to the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup Qualifying tournament, playing alongside Diego Godin and Éver Banega in central defence. 

In addition to footballing duties, Muslera works as a television presenter for Uruguayan network Tele13; hosting programmes such as "El show de Fernando" and "Futbolmania".

21. Gonzalo Higuaín

Argentina national football team

Higuaín is one of world's most celebrated and successful football players. He has been a part of several successful clubs, including Real Madrid CF, Juventus FC and Atlético Madrid.

Higuaín was born on March 10th, 1988 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He started playing football at the age of six with local club River Plate youth team before moving to Spain to play for Real Madrid CF in 2002 where he won two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey.

Higuaín then moved to Italian Serie A side Juventus FC in 2005 where he won another Serie A title as well as reaching the final of both the Coppa Italia and UEFA Champions League tournaments that year. In 2007, he joined Spanish giants Atlético Madrid where he helped them win their first ever European Cup that same year.

Higuaín represented his country at various youth levels before making his senior international debut in 2006 against Paraguay which ended with a 2-1 victory for Argentina; this would be his only game for national team until 2011 when he made an appearance against Mexico en route to qualification for FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010™.

Higuain played a major role as goalscorer during Argentina’s run to fourth place finish at 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ scoring four goals over course of three matches helping lead his nation within touching distance of lifting cup once again but ultimately finishing 4th after losing 1-0 semi-final match against the Netherlands. 

 On July 7th 2017 Gonzalo Higuain signed a new deal with Juventus worth €100 million (£87million/$122million) keeping him there until 2021.

22. Carlos Tevez

Argentina national football team

Carlos Tevez Career

  • 1992–1997: All Boys
  • 1997–2001: Boca Juniors
  • 2001–2004: Boca Juniors
  • 2005–2006: Corinthians
  • 2006–2007: West Ham United
  • 2007–2009: Manchester United
  • 2009–2013: Manchester City
  • 2013–2015: Juventus
  • 2015–2016: Boca Juniors
  • 2016–2018: Shanghai Shenhua
  • 2018–2021: Boca Juniors
  • 2001: Argentina U17
  • 2004: Argentina U23
  • 2004–2015: Argentina
  • 2022: Rosario Central

Carlos Tevez is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Italian club Juventus and the Argentina national team. Tevez began his career at Boca Juniors, before moving to Manchester United in 2007.

He spent three years with City before joining Juventus in 2013. Tevez has represented Argentina at the international level on numerous occasions, most notably winning the 2002 FIFA World Cup and the 2003 Copa América. 

In March 2015, he was banned from all football activity for eight months after being charged with deliberately kicking a ball into the stands during a match against Barcelona.

After serving his ban, he rejoined Juve in time for their 2016–17 Serie A campaign and scored 26 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions. 

On 24 May 2017, aged 37 years 338 days Tevez played his last game for Juventus coming on as a substitute in their 3-1 victory over Sassuolo.

His final goal came 7 minutes later when he volleyed home Douglas Costa's cross. Senior Career: Years Team Apps(Gls) 2001–2004 Boca Juniors 75 (26) 2005–2006 Corinthians 58 (38) 2006 West Ham United 26. 

2007 Manchester United 63 (19) 2009 Manchester City 113 (58) 2013 Juventus 66 (39) 2014 Shanghai SIPG 36 2015-16.

Atlanta Silverbacks 18 2016 Independiente 28 2017 Atletico Madrid 10 2018 Al Ahli Dubai 19 Total 476 (denotes clubs where Carlos Alberto Tevez won major trophies ).

23. Siphiwe Tshabalala

Kaizer Chiefs F.C.

Higuaín is one of world's most celebrated and successful football players. He has been a part of several successful clubs, including Real Madrid CF, Juventus FC and Atlético Madrid.

Higuaín was born on March 10th, 1988 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He started playing football at the age of six with local club River Plate youth team before moving to Spain to play for Real Madrid CF in 2002 where he won two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey.

Higuaín then moved to Italian Serie A side Juventus FC in 2005 where he won another Serie A title as well as reaching the final of both the Coppa Italia and UEFA Champions League tournaments that year. In 2007, he joined Spanish giants Atlético Madrid where he helped them win their first ever European Cup that same year.

Higuaín represented his country at various youth levels before making his senior international debut in 2006 against Paraguay which ended with a 2-1 victory for Argentina; this would be his only game for national team until 2011 when he made an appearance against Mexico en route to qualification for FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010™.

Higuain played a major role as goalscorer during Argentina’s run to fourth place finish at 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ scoring four goals over course of three matches helping lead his nation within touching distance of lifting cup once again but ultimately finishing 4th after losing 1-0 semi-final match against the Netherlands. 

 On July 7th 2017 Gonzalo Higuain signed a new deal with Juventus worth €100 million (£87million/$122million) keeping him there until 2021.

24. Robin van Persie

Netherlands national football team

Robin van Persie Career

  • 1988–1999: Excelsior
  • 1999–2001: Feyenoord
  • 2001–2004: Feyenoord
  • 2004–2012: Arsenal
  • 2012–2015: Manchester United
  • 2015–2018: Fenerbahçe
  • 2018–2019: Feyenoord
  • 2000: Netherlands U17
  • 2001: Netherlands U19
  • 2002–2005: Netherlands U21
  • 2005–2017: Netherlands
  • 2020: Feyenoord (assistant)

Robin van Persie is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Manchester United and the Netherlands national team. Van Persie began his career at Excelsior, before joining Feyenoord in 1999.

He spent most of his career with Arsenal, making 194 appearances between 2004 and 2012. In January 2013, he moved to Manchester United where he has since made 86 appearances. 

Van Persie represented the Netherlands at youth level before making his senior international debut in 2006.

He has won 58 caps and scored 25 goals, including two World Cup finals victories in 2010 and 2014. On 27 May 2018, Van Persie announced that he would be leaving Fenerbahçe after two seasons with the Turkish side. 

Robin van Persie was born on 6 August 1983 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

After starting out playing football for local amateur sides before signing for Excelsior aged 15, Van Persie went on to represent Feyenoord from 1999 until 2001 scoring 56 goals during this time.

Having played 191 matches for Arsenal across all competitions (96 Premier League starts), it came as no surprise when Manchester United signed him up following an auction process that yielded bids from Chelsea FC (£20 million) and Barcelona FC (£24 million).

His move saw him reunite with former Feyenoord coach Louis van Gaal who had recently been appointed manager of Old Trafford; however, it wasn't long into their partnership that they parted ways due to differing philosophies - though they remain friends today.

Signed by Arsene Wenger just days later, VanPersie went on to score 49 goals over three seasons at The Emirates Stadium – 28 of them coming league fixtures – helping guide.

Arsenal back into Champions League contention each season while also winning both FA Cups in 2005-06 & 2007-08.

With David Beckham’s departure from LA Galaxy towards the end of December 2009, English football's headline-grabbing ‘big four’ were now down to just one member: Man Utd.

Liverpool FC (Fernando Torres), Chelsea FC (Roman Abramovich) & Newcastle Jets AFC(Papiss Cisse). 

It seemed only natural then that speculation about what might happen next started immediately especially considering how well QPRFC performed throughout much of last season despite being relegated.

Also Played For: arsenal f.c, feyenoord

25. Dirk Kuyt

Netherlands national football team

Dirk Kuyt Career

  • 1985–1998: Quick Boys
  • 1998: Quick Boys
  • 1998–2003: Utrecht
  • 2003–2006: Feyenoord
  • 2006–2012: Liverpool
  • 2012–2015: Fenerbahçe
  • 2015–2017: Feyenoord
  • 2018: Quick Boys
  • 1998–1999: Netherlands U18
  • 2000–2001: Netherlands U21
  • 2004–2014: Netherlands
  • 2017–2018: Quick Boys (assistant)
  • 2018–2020: Feyenoord (U19)
  • 2022: ADO Den Haag

Dirk Kuyt is a former Dutch international footballer who played as a striker or winger. He started his career at Quick Boys before joining Utrecht in 1998, where he spent six seasons and scored 71 goals.

In 2003, Dirk moved to Feyenoord, where he would spend the next eleven years of his career and make 201 appearances for the club, scoring 51 times. 

After leaving Feyenoord in 2012, Dirk signed for Liverpool and made 208 appearances over three seasons with the Reds before returning to Feyenoord in 2015.

Since retiring from football in 2017, Dirk has been working as an ambassador for Premier League side Liverpool FC[6] and was also part of their coaching staff during the 2018–19 season.[7] 

On 20 July 2019 it was announced that Kuyt had signed with American side Miami FC on a one-year contract.

26. Asamoah Gyan

NorthEast United FC

Asamoah Gyan Career

  • 2003: Liberty Professionals
  • 2003–2008: Udinese
  • 2004–2006: Modena (loan)
  • 2008–2010: Rennes
  • 2010–2012: Sunderland
  • 2011–2012: Al Ain (loan)
  • 2012–2015: Al Ain
  • 2015–2017: Shanghai SIPG
  • 2016–2017: Al Ahli Dubai (loan)
  • 2017–2019: Kayserispor
  • 2019–2020: NorthEast United
  • 2020–2021: Legon Cities
  • 2003–2019: Ghana

Asamoah Gyan is a Ghanaian international footballer who plays as a striker for UAE club Al Ain and the Ghana national team. Asamoah Gyan began his career with Liberty Professionals in 2003, before moving to Udinese the following year.

He spent four seasons at Rennes before joining Sunderland in 2010. In 2012 he joined Al Ain on loan, where he has since made over 65 appearances and scored 73 goals. 

Asamoah Gyan was named African Footballer of the Year in both 2008 and 2011, and reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2014 as captain of Ghana's squad.

After retiring from international football in 2016, Asamoah Gyan returned to play for Al Ain later that year—scoring six goals in eight league appearances during the season. 

The 37-year-old is currently contracted with Al Ain until 2020.[3] Senior competitive matches only.

Also Played For: sunderland a.f.c, ghana soccer team

27. Luís Fabiano

Brazil national football team

Luís Fabiano Career

  • 1998–2000: Ponte Preta
  • 2000–2002: Rennes
  • 2001:  São Paulo (loan)
  • 2002–2004: São Paulo
  • 2004–2005: Porto
  • 2005–2011: Sevilla
  • 2011–2015: São Paulo
  • 2016: Tianjin Quanjian
  • 2017: Vasco da Gama
  • 2003–2013: Brazil

Luís Fabiano is a Brazilian international striker who has played for Ponte Preta, Rennes and São Paulo. In 2009, he signed for Sevilla where he enjoyed great success before joining English club Manchester City in 2013.

He was runner-up in the 2006 World Cup with Brazil and won the Copa America twice (2007, 2015). At international level, Luís Fabiano has 73 caps to his name and scored 23 goals including two at the 2014 World Cup which led to him being named as South American Player of the Year.

After leaving Manchester City in 2017, Luis Fabiano joined Portuguese side Sporting CP on a one-year deal but left after just six months citing personal reasons.

[2] Luís Fabiano is a Brazilian international football player who has played for Porto and Sevilla. Luís Fabiano was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on January 5th, 1984.

After starting his professional career with Vasco da Gama in 2005, he joined Portuguese giants Porto two years later where he made over 100 appearances before moving to Spanish side Sevilla in 2011. 

In January of this year, after four seasons with Chinese club Tianjin Quanjian, Luís Fabiano returned to Europe signing for Dutch side Feyenoord Rotterdam.

At the age of 29 years old, Luís Fabiano still has plenty of potential left in him and will be hoping to add more honours to his name during the next stage of his career.

Also Played For: sevilla fc

28. Didier Drogba

Ivory Coast national football team

Didier Drogba Career

  • 1988–1989: Tourcoing
  • 1989–1991: Abbeville
  • 1991–1993: Vannes
  • 1993–1997: Levallois
  • 1997–1998: Le Mans
  • 1998–2002: Le Mans
  • 2002–2003: Guingamp
  • 2003–2004: Marseille
  • 2004–2012: Chelsea
  • 2012–2013: Shanghai Shenhua
  • 2013–2014: Galatasaray
  • 2014–2015: Chelsea
  • 2015–2016: Montreal Impact
  • 2017–2018: Phoenix Rising
  • 2002–2014: Ivory Coast

Didier Drogba is a retired Ivorian footballer who played as a striker for several clubs in France and England. He began his career with French club Dunkirk, before moving to Ligue 1 side Guingamp in 2002.

After helping Guingamp reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup, he joined Chelsea where he won three Premier League titles, two FA Cups and one Champions League trophy during six seasons at Stamford Bridge from 2003 to 2010.

In January 2011, Drogba signed for Shanghai Shenhua after leaving Chelsea following their relegation from the Premier League; however, he only made five appearances for the Chinese Super League side before retiring later that year due to injury.

Drogba rejoined Marseille on a short-term contract in December 2013 but left again shortly afterward without making an appearance for them either 6 or 7 months later 8 when his contract expired. 

Since then 10, he has been playing 11 professional football 12 intermittently 13 across Europe 14.

Didier Yves Drogba was born on March 11th 1978 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.[1] He started out playing football with local sides Dunkirk[2] and Tourcoing,[3] both in France's top division Ligue.

After impressing at the youth level with Le Mans, Ivorian powerhouse Olympique de la Gamba drafted him into their squad ahead of the 1988–89 season.

However, after featuring just twice – both coming off the bench – " Dido" opted instead to join fellow second-division outfit Abbeville midway through 1989 campaign.

It wasn’t until 1991 that “The Beast” would make his debut for Vannes appearing 22 times over two seasons prior to joining ambitious third-tier Levallois Athletic alongside compatriot Nicolas Anelka on July 24th, 1993. 

Chelsea paid £16 million (then €21m/£15m) plus add-ons which took their tally up to 23million euros (£18m/$26m).

Ahead of La Liga champions Barcelona's visit to The Valley on November 26th, 1998, Didier scored an 89th-minute equalizer against Atlético Madrid providing.

Blues supporters with some much-needed silverware four years after being promoted back into English football’s top flight via Sky Bet Championship play.

Also Played For: cf montréal, chelsea f.c

29. Samuel Eto'o

Cameroon national football team

Samuel Eto Career

  • 1992–1996: Kadji Sports Academy
  • 1996–1997: Real Madrid
  • 1997–2000: Real Madrid
  • 1997–1998: Leganés (loan)
  • 1999: Espanyol (loan)
  • 2000: Mallorca (loan)
  • 2000–2004: Mallorca
  • 2004–2009: Barcelona
  • 2009–2011: Inter Milan
  • 2011–2013: Anzhi Makhachkala
  • 2013–2014: Chelsea
  • 2014–2015: Everton
  • 2015: Sampdoria
  • 2015–2018: Antalyaspor
  • 2018: Konyaspor
  • 2018–2019: Qatar SC
  • 2000: Cameroon U23
  • 1997–2014: Cameroon
  • 2015–2016: Antalyaspor (interim player-manager)

Samuel Eto'o is a Cameroonian football superstar who has played for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Barcelona and Inter Milan. He was also part of the Cameroon national team that reached the quarter-finals at both World Cups in 2002 and 2010.

In December 2021 he became president of the Cameroonian Football Federation, succeeding Seidou Mbombo Njoya. 

Samuel Eto'o was born on 10 March 1981 in Douala, Cameroon. At 1:80 metres (5ft 11in), he is short but incredibly powerful and fast on his feet – making him an extremely difficult player to defend against.

His playing career began at French club Lyon before moving to Spanish giants Barcelona where he won two La Liga titles as well as three Copa Del Reys (Spanish Cup). 

In 2003, Eto'o moved to Italian side Inter Milan where he enjoyed greater success; winning five Serie A titles and one Champions League title during his time there.

In 2009, after eight years with Inter Milan, Eto’O joined Chelsea FC – becoming their record signing and winner of six Premier League titles within four seasons.

Eto’O then returned to Spain for one final season with Atlético Madrid before retiring from professional football in 2016 at the age of 34 due to injury.

Also Played For: rcd mallorca

30. Robinho

Brazil national football team

Robinho Career

  • 1996–2002: Santos
  • 2002–2005: Santos
  • 2005–2008: Real Madrid
  • 2008–2010: Manchester City
  • 2010: Santos (loan)
  • 2010–2015: AC Milan
  • 2014–2015: Santos (loan)
  • 2015–2016: Guangzhou Evergrande
  • 2016–2017: Atlético Mineiro
  • 2018–2019: Sivasspor
  • 2019–2020: İstanbul Başakşehir
  • 2020: Santos
  • 2004: Brazil U23
  • 2003–2017: Brazil

Robinho is a Brazilian international forward who has played for Santos, Real Madrid and Manchester City. He was born in 1984 and started his career with Santos before moving toReal Madrid in 2002.

After three years at Madrid he joined Manchester City where he spent five seasons before joining AC Milan on a loan in 2014. In 2015 Robinho rejoined Santos on a permanent basis after spending the previous season with Guangzhou Evergrande on a loan deal.

The 38-year old striker has made over 100 appearances for Brazil, scoring 25 goals along the way, including two during the 2014 World Cup which saw his country reach the semi finals as well as winning their fourth Copa America title earlier this year. 

Robinho is a Brazilian international footballer who has played for Atlético Mineiro, Sivasspor and İstanbul Başakşehir.

He has also represented Brazil at senior level. Robinho was born in 1983 and started his playing career with local side Basquete Brasil before joining Corinthians in 2001. 

He helped the club win two championships and two Copa Libertadores, as well as reach the 2002 FIFA World Cup final where they were beaten by Spain. 

In 2004, Robinho signed for Cruzeiro where he won the 2005 Campeonato Brasileiro title and reached the semi-finals of both the Copa América (where he scored against Ecuador) and Club World Championship that year.

After spending time on loan at Flamengo, Manchester City FC (with whom he won another Premier League title), Valencia CF, Monaco ASM, and Atlético Madrid respectively between 2006-2008.

Robinho joined Chelsea FC in 2009 but failed to establish himself in England despite making 43 appearances over three seasons – scoring 10 goals – before moving back to Brazil with Santos FC in 2011. 

At Santos he helped them win four consecutive league titles from 2012-2015 before signing for current club Atlético Mineiro ahead of the 2016–2017 season where he quickly became an integral part of their attack; helping them qualify for next year's Champions League tournament as runners up behind Benfica LFC.

On 30 January 2019 it was announced that Robinho had rejoined former clubAtlético Mineiro on a one-year deal effective from 1 February 2019.

In November 2018 it was announced that after six years without competitive football due to injury, aged just 32 years oldRobinho would be returning to play professional football again by joining third division side Sivasspor.

He made his debut on 12 December 2018 coming off the bench in a 2–1 loss against Konyaspor. 

During his short spell with Sivasspor though injuries forced him out shortly afterwards once more leading him into retirement - however only having played 4 matches which resulted 0 goals all together.

Also Played For: santos fc

31. Maarten Stekelenburg

Everton F.C.

Maarten Stekelenburg Career

  • : Zandvoort '75
  • : VV Schoten
  • 1997–2002: Ajax
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2002–2011: Ajax: 191: (0)
  • 2011–2013: Roma: 48: (0)
  • 2013–2016: Fulham: 19: (0)
  • 2014–2015: → Monaco (loan): 1: (0)
  • 2015–2016: → Southampton (loan): 17: (0)
  • 2016–2020: Everton: 19: (0)
  • 2020–: Ajax: 19: (0)
  • 2002–2003: Netherlands U21: 4: (0)
  • 2004–2021: Netherlands: 63: (0)

Maarten Stekelenburg is a goalkeeper for Ajax. He has been with the club since 1997 and played over 350 games for them. Stekelenburg was part of the Netherlands' successful side at Euro 2012, where they reached the semi-finals before losing to Spain.

In 2013, he helped Ajax reach their fourth consecutive Dutch championship and his 100th appearance in all competitions came against Feyenoord in March of that year. 

Having made his international debut back in 2002, Stekelenburg represented his country at three World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014) as well as two European Championships (2008, 2012).

On 16 January 2016 it was announced that Stekelenburg would be out for six months after fracturing his ankle whilst on international duty with Holland.[4] Senior career starts from 1 July 2007.

32. Richard Kingson

Ghana national football team

Richard Kingson Career

  • 1995–1996: Great Olympics
  • 1996–2005: Galatasaray
  • 1998–1999: Sakaryaspor (loan)
  • 1999–2001: Göztepe (loan)
  • 2001–2002: Antalyaspor (loan)
  • 2002–2003: Elazığspor (loan)
  • 2005–2007: Ankaraspor
  • 2007: Hammarby (loan)
  • 2007–2008: Birmingham City
  • 2008–2010: Wigan Athletic
  • 2010–2011: Blackpool
  • 2013: Doxa Katokopias
  • 2014: Balıkesirspor
  • 2015: Great Olympics
  • 1996–2012: Ghana
  • 2017–2019: Ghana (goalkeeper coach)
  • 2021: Ghana A' (goalkeeper coach)
  • 2021: Ghana (goalkeeper coach)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Richard Kingson is a goalkeeper who has played for several teams in his career including Great Olympics, Galatasaray and Sakaryaspor. In 2003, he moved to Greece to play for Antalyaspor on loan before rejoining Galatasaray the following year.

He stayed with the Turkish side until 2005 when he joined Ghana's national team where he has remained ever since. 

Richard Kingson made his international debut in 1998 and has been capped 97 times by Ghana so far Richard Kingson began his professional football career with Elazığspor in 2002.

He made 20 appearances for the club, before joining Ankaraspor on a loan deal in 2005. After making four appearances for the side, he joined Birmingham City on a one-month loan spell in 2007. 

He then spent three years with Wigan Athletic before moving to Blackpool in 2010 where he played until 2013 when he signed for Doxa Katokopias and helped them win promotion to the Greek Superleague as champions that season.

In 2014, he returned to England and signed for Balıkesirspor who were relegated at the end of his first season back however they bounced straight back up as Division 1 Champions after winning their play-off match against Ilisiakos F). 

Richard Kingson was appointed manager of Great Olympics during their inaugural campaign but left the position less than two months later due to personal reasons unrelated to footballing matters (he has since reemerged onto managerial radar by being announced as goalkeeping coach of Ghana ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifiers).

33. Javier Hernández

Mexico national football team

Javier Hernández Career

  • 1997–2006: Guadalajara
  • 2006–2010: Guadalajara
  • 2010–2015: Manchester United
  • 2014–2015: Real Madrid (loan)
  • 2015–2017: Bayer Leverkusen
  • 2017–2019: West Ham United
  • 2019–2020: Sevilla
  • 2020: LA Galaxy
  • 2007: Mexico U20
  • 2009–2019: Mexico

Javier Hernández is a Mexican international striker who currently plays for LA Galaxy. He began his career with Guadalajara before moving to Manchester United in 2010.

After two seasons at Old Trafford, he joined Bayer Leverkusen on loan in 2015 where he made 54 appearances and scored 28 goals. In 2017, he moved to Real Madrid on a permanent basis and has since helped the club win three La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey trophy.

Hernandez was named runner-up for the 2018 Ballon d'Or award after scoring 43 goals in all competitions for Los Blancos that season. 

Javier Hernandez, commonly known as Chicharito or "The Hernán" is a Mexican professional footballer who plays for Premier League club West Ham United and the Mexico national team.

A striker by trade, Chicharito has spent most of his career in Europe playing for Spanish side Real Madrid, English side Manchester United and French side Lille. 

He made his international debut in 2007 and has gone on to score 55 goals for Mexico over 109 appearances, making him their all-time leading scorer. 

In May 2019 he announced that he would be retiring from international football after the 2020 World Cup finals due to injury concerns arising from a succession of concussions sustained throughout his career.

Outside of football, Javier Hernandez is also an entrepreneur with interests in music production and marketing; he founded the clothing brand The Hernán Collection with brother Raúl in 2018.

34. Tim Howard

Memphis 901 FC

Tim Howard Career

  • 1995–1997: Central Jersey Cosmos
  • 1997: North Jersey Imperials
  • 1998–2003: MetroStars
  • 1998: MLS Pro-40 (loan)
  • 2003–2007: Manchester United
  • 2006–2007: Everton (loan)
  • 2007–2016: Everton
  • 2016–2019: Colorado Rapids
  • 2020–2021: Memphis 901
  • 1999: United States U20
  • 1999: United States U23
  • 2002–2017: United States

Tim Howard was born on March 6, 1979 in North Brunswick, New Jersey. He started playing soccer at a young age and played for Central Jersey Cosmos before signing with MetroStars in 1997.

Howard spent the majority of his career with Manchester United where he won numerous trophies including three Premier League titles and two FA Cups. 

In 2007, Howard moved to Everton where he continued to play until 2017 when he signed with Colorado Rapids as their new goalkeeper coach.

Tim Howard is currently the goalkeeping coach for Colorado Rapids' MLS team.[5] Tim Howard is a world-renowned goalkeeper who has played for Everton and the Colorado Rapids in the English Premier League.

He was part of the United States side that won the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2007, and he also represented his country at both Copa America Centenario (winning silverware) and World Cup qualification. 

In 2019, Howard signed with Memphis 901 in Major League Soccer - where he continued to play until 2021 when he announced his retirement from professional football.

35. Maicon

Brazil national football team

Maicon Career

  • 1995: Grêmio
  • 1999–2000: Criciúma
  • 2000–2001: Cruzeiro
  • 2000–2004: Cruzeiro
  • 2004–2006: Monaco
  • 2006–2012: Inter Milan
  • 2012–2013: Manchester City
  • 2013–2016: Roma
  • 2017: Avaí
  • 2019: Criciúma
  • 2020: Villa Nova
  • 2021: Sona
  • 2021: Tre Penne
  • 2001: Brazil U20
  • 2003–2014: Brazil

Maicon is a right-back and winger-back who has played for Inter Milan, Monaco and Cruzeiro in his career. Maicon was born in 1981 and started playing football at the age of 10 for Grêmio.

He joined Monaco in 2004, where he made 58 appearances before moving to Inter Milan in 2006. Maicon won the La Liga title with Barcelona in 2009 but left four years later to join Inter Milan again.

In 2012, he moved on loan to Atlético Madrid before returning to Italy with AS Roma the following year; he retired from professional football at the end of the 2015/16 season having played 177 games over eight seasons. 

Maicon is a Brazilian defender who has represented his country at international level on numerous occasions, most notably in the FIFA Confederations Cup and Copa América.

Maicon started his career with Corinthians before moving to Manchester City in England in 2012. He would stay there for nine seasons, helping the club win two Premier League titles and making over 150 appearances overall. 

In 2017, Maicon moved to Avaií where he played for one season before joining Criciúma of Brazil's São Paulo state later that year. He remained with them until 2019 when he retired from professional football altogether at age 35 years old due to injury concerns.

Outside of playing professionally, Maicon also works as a pundit for Fox Sports Brasil and occasionally makes guest appearances for other Brazilian sides including Flamengo and Palmeiras during their promotional campaigns overseas respectively.

Also Played For: football manager 2017

36. Robert Koren

Hull City

Robert Koren Career

  • 1996–2001: Dravograd
  • 2001–2004: Celje
  • 2004–2007: Lillestrøm
  • 2007–2010: West Bromwich Albion
  • 2010–2014: Hull City
  • 2014–2016: Melbourne City
  • 2017: Dravograd
  • 1998: Slovenia U18
  • 2000: Slovenia U20
  • 2000–2001: Slovenia U21
  • 2003: Slovenia B
  • 2003–2011: Slovenia
  • 2020–2021: Fužinar
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Robert Koren was born in Slovenia and started his career with local side Radlje ob Dravi. After a spell at fellow Slovenian side Dravograd, he joined Celje in 2004 where he has remained since then.

The midfielder is known for his tenacious midfield play and strong defensive performances. He made his international debut for Slovenia in 2003 and has been a regular player ever since, making 59 appearances to date.

Robert Koren is currently the captain of Slovenia's national team and will be looking to lead them to glory during Euro 2012 qualification campaign later this year Robert Koren is a Slovenian footballer who plays as a defender for Dravograd.

He made his debut for Slovenia in 2003 and went on to make 61 appearances over five seasons, scoring 5 goals. In 2020 he was appointed manager of Fužinar and has since led them to second place in the Macedonian First League.

Also Played For: west bromwich albion f.c

37. Kevin-Prince Boateng

Beşiktaş J.K.

Kevin-Prince Boateng Career

  • 1994: Reinickendorfer Füchse
  • 1994–2005: Hertha BSC
  • 2004–2007: Hertha BSC II
  • 2005–2007: Hertha BSC
  • 2007–2009: Tottenham Hotspur
  • 2009: Borussia Dortmund (loan)
  • 2009–2010: Portsmouth
  • 2010: Genoa
  • 2010–2013: AC Milan
  • 2013–2015: Schalke 04
  • 2016: AC Milan
  • 2016–2017: Las Palmas
  • 2017–2018: Eintracht Frankfurt
  • 2018–2019: Sassuolo
  • 2019: Barcelona (loan)
  • 2019–2020: Fiorentina
  • 2020: Beşiktaş (loan)
  • 2020–2021: Monza
  • 2021: Hertha BSC
  • 2004–2005: Germany U19
  • 2006: Germany U20
  • 2006–2009: Germany U21
  • 2010–2014: Ghana
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:24, 12 November 2022 (UTC)

Boateng was born in Berlin, West Germany in 1987. Boateng started his career at Reinickendorfer Füchse before joining Hertha BSC in 2004. Boateng played for Tottenham Hotspur from 2007 to 2009, making 14 appearances for the club.

After leaving Spurs, Boateng returned to Hertha BSC where he currently plays as a midfielder/forward. 

In 2011, Boateng won the African Footballer of the Year award after leading Ghana to their first-ever World Cup appearance that year and scoring two goals during group play against Portugal and Spain respectively; however, they were eliminated following a 2-1 loss to Holland in the Round of 16 stages of the tournament.

On 12 July 2016, it was announced that Boateng had signed with Premier League side Manchester City on a three-year deal worth £16 million ($21 million). He made his debut for City on 17 August 2016 as an 88th-minute substitute in a 3–0 victory over Chelsea.

38. Diego Benaglio

VfL Wolfsburg

Diego Benaglio Career

  • 1993–1997: Spreitenbach
  • 1997–1999: FC Baden
  • 1999–2002: Grasshoppers
  • 2002–2005: VfB Stuttgart
  • 2003–2005: VfB Stuttgart II
  • 2005–2008: Nacional
  • 2008–2017: VfL Wolfsburg
  • 2015: VfL Wolfsburg II
  • 2017–2020: Monaco
  • 2001: Switzerland U19
  • 2002: Switzerland U20
  • 2003–2005: Switzerland U21
  • 2006–2014: Switzerland
  • 2012: Switzerland Olympic
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Diego Benaglio is a goalkeeper who has played for several clubs in his career. He enjoyed some success with Grasshoppers, winning the Swiss Cup and Super League titles while at the club.

In 2007, he moved to Juventus where he made over 100 appearances before joining Manchester United in 2014. At Man Utd, Benaglio won two Premier League titles and an FA Cup during his time there.

After leaving Manchester United in 2016, Benaglio signed for Monaco but left the club after only one season due to injury problems. He rejoined Juventus ahead of the 2019–20 season and remains their first-choice goalkeeper heading into 2020–21..

Diego Benaglio is a world-renowned goalkeeper who has played for several top clubs in Europe. Diego Benaglio made his professional debut with VfB Stuttgart in 2002 and went on to play for Nacional, Wolfsburg, and Monaco over the next decade. 

In 2017, he joined Monaco as their new first-choice goalkeeper following an impressive season with Wolfsburg II.

Diego Benaglio was part of Switzerland's team that won the 2006 World Cup and reached the final of Euro 2016 this year (they lost to Portugal). 

He is widely considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world and is highly respected by his peers. Diego Benaglio will be 34 years old at the end of 2020 and may decide it's time to retire from playing football professionally then - we'll have to wait and see.

Also Played For: vfl wolfsburg

39. Giovanni van Bronckhorst

Netherlands national football team

Giovanni van Bronckhorst Career

  • 1982–1993: Feyenoord
  • 1993–1998: Feyenoord
  • 1993–1994: RKC Waalwijk (loan)
  • 1998–2001: Rangers
  • 2001–2004: Arsenal
  • 2003–2004: Barcelona (loan)
  • 2004–2007: Barcelona
  • 2007–2010: Feyenoord
  • 1996–2010: Netherlands
  • 2015–2019: Feyenoord
  • 2020: Guangzhou R&F
  • 2021–2022: Rangers

Giovanni van Bronckhorst is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a midfielder or left-back for Spanish club Barcelona. Van Bronckhorst began his career at Feyenoord, and made over 100 appearances for the Rotterdam side before joining Rangers in 1998.

He spent two years with Arsenal, helping them win the Premier League title in 2003–04 before signing for Barcelona on loan the following season. After returning to Arsenal, he departed after one more year playing mainly reserve team football. 

Since then, van Bronckhorst has played regularly for Barcelona's B team and occasionally featured in La Liga matches during the 2011–12 campaign; however, he announced his retirement from professional football at age 35 due to persistent injury concerns.

In May 2014 it was announced that van Bronckhorst would take up an assistant coaching role with Ajax under new manager Frank de Boer until the end of the season.

Also Played For: scottish premier league

40. Kalu Uche

Nigeria national football team

Career

  • : Enyimba International
  • 1999–2000: Iwuanyanwu Nationale
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2000–2001: Espanyol B: 2: (0)
  • 2001–2005: Wisła Kraków: 54: (11)
  • 2004–2005: → Bordeaux (loan): 24: (1)
  • 2005–2011: Almería: 172: (39)
  • 2011–2012: Neuchâtel Xamax: 14: (6)
  • 2012: Espanyol: 15: (5)
  • 2012–2013: Kasımpaşa: 34: (19)
  • 2013–2014: El Jaish: 8: (4)
  • 2014–2015: Al-Rayyan: 8: (7)
  • 2015: Levante: 16: (5)
  • 2015: Pune City: 11: (4)
  • 2016–2017: Almería: 28: (5)
  • 2017–2018: Delhi Dynamos: 15: (13)
  • 2018–2019: ATK: 11: (1)
  • 2003–2012: Nigeria: 37: (5)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 3 March 2019

Kalu Uche is a Nigerian international forward who has played for Espanyol B and Wisła Kraków. He was born in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria on 15 November 1982.

Kalu made his senior debut with Wisła Kraków in 2001 and went on to play 54 matches for the club over the next three seasons before joining Espanyol B in 2005.

In total, he has scored 11 goals during his career which includes five times during spells at Wisła Krakow and four times at Espanyol B. Kalu won two caps for Nigeria between 2003 and 2004 before retiring from international football following the 2006 World Cup finals campaign where they were eliminated by France in the quarter-finals stage.

He currently plays for Spanish side UD Las Palmas as their first-choice striker and helped them achieve promotion to La Liga ahead of schedule this season after finishing as champions of Segunda Division 2B.

41. Justo Villar

Paraguay national football team

Justo Villar Career

  • 1996–2000: Sol de América
  • 2001–2004: Libertad
  • 2004–2008: Newell's Old Boys
  • 2008–2011: Valladolid
  • 2011–2012: Estudiantes
  • 2013: Nacional
  • 2013–2017: Colo-Colo
  • 2017–2018: Nacional
  • 1997: Paraguay U20
  • 2000: Paraguay U23
  • 1999–2018: Paraguay

Villar began his professional career with Paraguayan side Sol de América in 1996. He joined Argentine giants Libertad a year later and helped the club win the Copa Libertadores title in 2001.

Villar spent four seasons at Newell's Old Boys before joining Spanish side Valladolid in 2008. In 2011, Villar transferred to Chilean champions Colo-Colo where he played until 2016 when he retired from football due to injury aged 45 years old.

Justo Villar is considered one of the best goalkeepers ever to play for Paraguay and was named as part of their squad for their 2018 World Cup campaign which they failed to qualify for however.[1] Justo Villar is a Paraguayan footballer who has played for Club Atlético Paraná and Nacional.

Justo Villar represented his country at Copa América in 2011, where they reached the final but lost to Argentina. Justo Villar has also played for Colo-Colo and National since joining up with each team in 2013 respectively. 

However, he didn't feature for either side during the 2017–2018 season and was subsequently released by Nacional later that year.

Also Played For: paraguay national football team

42. Róbert Vittek

Slovakia national football team

Róbert Vittek Career

  • 1999–2003: Slovan Bratislava
  • 2003–2008: 1. FC Nürnberg
  • 2008–2010: Lille
  • 2010: Ankaragücü (loan)
  • 2010–2011: Ankaragücü
  • 2011–2013: Trabzonspor
  • 2013: İstanbul BB
  • 2013–2016: Slovan Bratislava
  • 2016: Debrecen
  • 2017–2018: Slovan Bratislava
  • 2019: Slovan Bratislava
  • 2001–2016: Slovakia
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Vittek is a Slovakian forward who has played for Slovan Bratislava and FC Barcelona. Vittek started his career at Slovan Bratislava, scoring 47 goals in 101 appearances over three seasons.

In 2003, he moved to FC Barcelona where he would play until 2008. He made 77 appearances and scored 21 goals during this time. 

After leaving Barcelona, Vittek signed with AC Milan but never made an appearance for the club due to injury problems.

In 2013, Vittek returned to Slovakia and signed with FK Senica before short stints with several other clubs later that year including MFK Košice and ŠK Považská Bystrica before retiring from football in 2015 at the age of 34 due to chronic knee injuries..

Since retirement, Vittek has worked as a sports journalist for Hungarian television station RTL Klub.

Also Played For: slovakia

43. Elano

Brazil national football team

Elano Career

  • 1998–2000: Guarani
  • 2000: Inter de Limeira (loan)
  • 2001–2005: Santos
  • 2005–2007: Shakhtar Donetsk
  • 2007–2009: Manchester City
  • 2009–2011: Galatasaray
  • 2011–2012: Santos
  • 2012–2014: Grêmio
  • 2014: Flamengo (loan)
  • 2014: Chennaiyin
  • 2015–2016: Santos
  • 2015: Chennaiyin (loan)
  • 2004–2011: Brazil
  • 2017: Santos (assistant)
  • 2017: Santos (interim)
  • 2017: Santos (interim)
  • 2020: Inter de Limeira
  • 2020: Figueirense
  • 2021–2022: Ferroviária
  • 2022: Náutico
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Elano is a Brazilian attacking midfielder who has played for Santos, Inter de Limeira and Manchester City. Elano was born in Iracemápolis on 14 June 1981.

He started his career with Guarani before joining Inter de Limeira on loan in 2000. Elano made his senior debut for Shakhtar Donetsk in 2007 where he scored three goals during the season.

In 2009, Elano moved to Galatasaray and helped them win the Turkish Cup that year as well as reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals where they were beaten by Barcelona. 

After two seasons with Galatasaray, Elano joined Manchester City in 2011 but injury prevented him from playing too many games for them and he departed at the end of the 2012/13 season.

Currently, Elano plays for Beşiktaş JK.[3] Elano started his professional career at Santos in 2004. He played for Brazil up until 2011 and was a key player during that time. 

After leaving Brazilian football, Elano spent some time working as an assistant manager with Santos before being appointed interim manager of the club in 2017. 

Elano is currently managing Inter de Limeira in Brazil's second tier, but has also had spells coaching at Figueirense and Náutico in recent years too.

Also Played For: copa libertadores

44. Gianluigi Buffon

Parma Calcio 1913

Gianluigi Buffon Career

  • 1991–1995: Parma
  • 1995–2001: Parma
  • 2001–2018: Juventus
  • 2018–2019: Paris Saint-Germain
  • 2019–2021: Juventus
  • 2021–: Parma
  • 1993–1994: Italy U16
  • 1995: Italy U17
  • 1994–1995: Italy U18
  • 1995–1997: Italy U21
  • 1997: Italy U23
  • 1997–2018: Italy

Buffon is a world-renowned goalkeeper who has played for Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain. Buffon was born in 1978 in Carrara, Italy and began his career with Parma in 1991.

He made his debut for Juventus in 2001 and went on to make 510 appearances for the club, winning five Serie A titles and three Champions League medals. In 2018, Buffon joined PSG but left two years later after failing to agree on new terms with the French side.

Buffon announced his retirement from football at the age of 44 following Juve's victory over Torino in the Italian Cup Final on 23 May 2019. Buffon is currently officiating as goalkeeper coach at Parma.

Buffon is one of the most decorated players in world football, having won numerous accolades including five Serie A titles and three Champions League crowns.

Buffon has made 176 appearances for his club side Juventus and was an integral part of their back-to-back title successes in 2006 and 2007. 

Buffon's international career saw him feature at three World Cups - notably helping Italy to victory in 2006 - before he retired from international duty following Euro 2016. 

Buffon has since returned to playing for Juventus, but will now turn his attention to coaching as he takes up a role with Italian national team boss Giampiero Ventura ahead of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers later this year.

Now into his 40s, Buffon continues to be a key player for Juve domestically and internationally, with rumors rife that he could retire at the end of next season should they win another league title.

45. Andrea Pirlo

Italy national football team

Andrea Pirlo Career

  • 1992–1995: Brescia
  • 1995–1998: Brescia
  • 1998–2001: Inter Milan
  • 1999–2000: Reggina (loan)
  • 2001: Brescia (loan)
  • 2001–2011: AC Milan
  • 2011–2015: Juventus
  • 2015–2017: New York City FC
  • 1994: Italy U15
  • 1995: Italy U16
  • 1995: Italy U17
  • 1995–1997: Italy U18
  • 1998–2002: Italy U21
  • 2004: Italy Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2002–2015: Italy
  • 2020: Juventus U23
  • 2020–2021: Juventus
  • 2022: Fatih Karagümrük

Andrea Pirlo is an Italian midfielder who currently plays for the Turkish club Fatih Karagümrük. Andrea Pirlo started his career at Brescia before moving to Inter Milan in 1998 where he made over 200 appearances and won the Serie A title twice.

In 2011, Pirlo moved back home to AC Milan where he retired from football later that year after winning another Serie A title with the club. 

Andrea has been capped 74 times by Italy and was a member of their successful 2006 World Cup squad, as well as their team that finished fourth at the 2010 World Cup.

After retiring from professional football, Andrea took up coaching duties with Wycombe Wanderers in England before joining Karagümrük earlier this season. 

Andrea is married to fashion designer Elisabetta Canalis and they have two children together - sons Matteo (born 2009) and Leonardo (born 2012). 

Although not fluent in English, Andrea tries his best to communicate with his players during training sessions using sign language.

46. Michael Bradley

United States men's national soccer team

Michael Bradley Career

  • 2002–2004: IMG Academy
  • 2004–2005: MetroStars
  • 2006–2008: Heerenveen
  • 2008–2011: Borussia Mönchengladbach
  • 2011: Aston Villa (loan)
  • 2011–2012: Chievo
  • 2012–2014: Roma
  • 2014: Toronto FC
  • 2002–2004: United States U17
  • 2004: United States U18
  • 2004–2007: United States U20
  • 2008: United States U23
  • 2006–2019: United States

Michael Bradley is a central midfielder for Toronto FC. He has played for Heerenveen, Borussia Mönchengladbach, and MetroStars in his career. 

Born on July 31st 1987, Bradley started playing soccer at an early age with the Chicago Sockers youth team before moving to Europe to play for Heerenveen and Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Bradley was a key player in both clubs' successes over the course of his six-year career, winning two Dutch Eredivisie titles (2006–2007; 2008–2009) as well as one Bundesliga title (2008). 

After leaving Germany following the 2011 season, Bradley joined Toronto FC where he has since made over 100 appearances and helped lead the club to their first ever Canadian Championship trophy in 2017 as well as being named MLS Defender of The Year twice (2015; 2016).

Michael Bradley will be looking to add another championship trophy to his collection when he leads TFC into action against LA Galaxy this coming Sunday afternoon at BMO Field.

47. Lee Chung-yong

VfL Bochum 1848

Lee Chung-yong Career

  • 2003–2004: FC Seoul
  • 2004–2009: FC Seoul
  • 2009–2015: Bolton Wanderers
  • 2015–2018: Crystal Palace
  • 2018–2020: VfL Bochum
  • 2020–: Ulsan Hyundai
  • 2003–2005: South Korea U17
  • 2006–2007: South Korea U20
  • 2007–2008: South Korea U23
  • 2008: South Korea

Lee Chung-yong is a South Korean international footballer who plays as a winger for Ulsan Hyundai in the K League. Lee first came to prominence at FC Seoul, where he made 54 appearances and scored 11 goals between 2004 and 2009.

After two years out of the game, Lee signed for Bolton Wanderers in England but struggled to make an impact there before moving back home to Crystal Palace in 2015. 

The 34-year-old has since helped Palace win promotion back to the Premier League after finishing runners up last season.

Lee Chung-yong is a Korean international football player who has played for South Korea at various youth levels before making his senior team debut in 2007. 

Lee started out playing for club side Ulsan Hyundai but has since had a successful international career with South Korea, including appearances at the AFC Asian Cup and AFC Youth Championship.

Lee will hope to extend that success into the next few seasons as he represents Bochum in Germany's Bundesliga 1 division.

Also Played For: k league 1, bolton wanderers f.c

48. Lee Jung-soo

Al Sadd SC

Lee Jung-soo Career

  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1998–2001: Kyung Hee University: :
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2002–2004: FC Seoul: 29: (2)
  • 2004–2005: Incheon United: 20: (1)
  • 2006–2008: Suwon Samsung Bluewings: 46: (3)
  • 2009: Kyoto Sanga: 32: (5)
  • 2010: Kashima Antlers: 10: (3)
  • 2010–2015: Al-Sadd: 112: (10)
  • 2016–2017: Suwon Samsung Bluewings: 30: (3)
  • 2018: Charlotte Independence: 13: (0)
  • Total: : 292: (27)
  • 1998: South Korea U20: 2: (0)
  • 2001: South Korea B: :
  • 2008–2013: South Korea: 54: (5)

Lee Jung-soo is a defender who has spent most of his career playing for Al-Sadd. He made his professional debut with Kyung Hee University in 1998 and went on to make over 100 appearances for the club before joining FC Seoul in 2004.

After spending two years with Incheon United, Lee moved to Suwon Samsung Bluewings where he played 46 times between 2006 and 2008. In 2009, Lee joined Kyoto Sanga and helped the club win the J1 League title that year before moving back to South Korea in 2010 to join Al-Sadd (his former team from Kyung Hee University).

The midfielder has since won ten titles with al-Sad including five consecutive league championships from 2011 until 2015. 

Lee also represented South Korea at international level, appearing 29 times between 1998 and 2005 as well as scoring one goal during his time at FC Seoul and two during his time at Incheon United respectively.

49. Winston Reid

Brentford F.C.

Winston Reid Career

  • 1992–1998: Takapuna
  • –2004: SUB Sønderborg
  • 2004–2008: Midtjylland
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2005–2010: Midtjylland: 84: (2)
  • 2010–2021: West Ham United: 194: (9)
  • 2020: → Sporting Kansas City (loan): 10: (1)
  • 2021: → Brentford (loan): 11: (0)
  • 2007: Denmark U19: 4: (0)
  • 2008: Denmark U20: 1: (0)
  • 2008–2010: Denmark U21: 10: (0)
  • 2021: New Zealand Olympic (O.P.): 3: (0)
  • 2010–2022: New Zealand: 33: (1)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 04:09, 30 May 2021 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 09:56, 25 September 2022 (UTC)

Winston Reid is a defender who currently plays for West Ham United in the Premier League. He began his career at Takapuna before moving to Denmark to play for Sønderborg between 2004 and 2008.

Reid then returned to New Zealand and signed with Midtjylland, where he has since played over 150 matches. A regular member of the Kiwis national team, Reid was part of their squads that competed at both the 2010 World Cup and 2014 FIFA World Cup tournaments.

In 2016, he joined West Ham permanently after agreeing a four-year contract worth £15 million ($22 million). 

Possessing excellent physicality and positional sense, Reid is often deployed as a centre back or defensive midfielder by his clubs Winston Reid is a central defender who has played for both Midtjylland and West Ham United in England.

He was part of the Denmark team that reached the semifinals of the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, as well as the Danish side that competed at Euro 2008. 

Winston Reid made his international debut in 2010, and since then he has earned 33 caps for New Zealand, scoring one goal. Injuries have limited Reid's playing time in recent years, but he is still an important member of the Sporting Kansas City squad.

50. Brett Holman

Australia national football team

Brett Holman Career

  • : Northern Spirit
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2001–2002: Parramatta Power: 13: (5)
  • 2002–2006: Feyenoord: 0: (0)
  • 2002–2006: → Excelsior (loan): 134: (39)
  • 2006–2008: NEC Nijmegen: 59: (13)
  • 2008–2012: AZ: 92: (16)
  • 2012–2013: Aston Villa: 27: (1)
  • 2013–2015: Al Nasr: 50: (8)
  • 2015–2016: Emirates Club: 20: (5)
  • 2016–2019: Brisbane Roar: 38: (10)
  • 2000–2001: Australia U17: 10: (3)
  • 2003–2004: Australia U23: 16: (6)
  • 2006–2013: Australia: 63: (9)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 5 May 2018

Brett Holman is an attacking midfielder who has played for Northern Spirit, Sydney FC and Adelaide United in the A-League. Brett Holman began his career with Northern Spirit before moving to Sydney FC in 2007.

He spent two seasons at the club before joining Adelaide United in 2009. Brett Holman made his international debut for Australia against Oman in October 2008 and has since represented his country on numerous occasions, including at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Brett Holman is a fan favourite due to his creativity and ability to score goals as well as pass accurately; he was named Football Federation Australia's Player of the Year twice (in 2011 and 2012). 

In May 2017, it was announced that Brett Holman would leave Adelaide United after seven years with the club.[2] He signed a three-year contract with Melbourne City FC in November 2017[3] and made his competitive debut for them on 10 December 2017 against Perth Glory.[4]

51. Alexis Sánchez

Chile national football team

Alexis Sánchez Career

  • 1999: Universidad Católica
  • 2000–2003: Escuela Bernardo O'Higgins
  • 2004–2005: Cobreloa
  • 2005–2006: Cobreloa
  • 2006–2011: Udinese
  • 2006–2007: → Colo-Colo (loan)
  • 2007–2008: → River Plate (loan)
  • 2011–2014: Barcelona
  • 2014–2018: Arsenal
  • 2018–2020: Manchester United
  • 2019–2020: → Inter Milan (loan)
  • 2020–2022: Inter Milan
  • 2022–: Marseille
  • 2004: Chile U15
  • 2005: Chile U17
  • 2006–2008: Chile U20
  • 2006–: Chile

Sánchez is a Chilean international footballer who currently plays for French club Marseille. Sánchez was born in Tocopilla, Chile in 1988 and began his career with Universidad Católica before moving to Italian side Udinese in 2005.

After two successful seasons at Udinese, Sánchez joined Premier League giants Manchester United on a five-year deal worth £33 million but failed to make an impact during his time there and returned back to Europe with Barcelona in 2013 where he won La Liga the following season as well as the Copa del Rey.

In 2017, after months of speculation linking him with several top European clubs including Atlético Madrid and Chelsea, Sanchez transferred to Marseille for an undisclosed fee believed to be around €60 million (£52 million). 

A regular starter for both Chile and the country's national team since making his debut aged 18, Sánchez has scored over 50 goals throughout his professional career including 25 league goals combined between Manchester United (four) Barcelona (three) and Atlético Madrid (one).

Having been part of three Copas América squads – 2007, 2011 and 2015 – Sanchez helped Chile reach their first ever final at the tournament held in Brazil this year where they were narrowly defeated by Argentina.

Currently acting as captain of Marseille Sánchez is often described as one of the best forwards in world football being named Footballer of the Year twice by Spanish sports newspaper AS.

While also winning numerous other individual awards such as Best Forward at UEFA Euro 2016, FIFA World Cup Golden Boot, PFA Players' Player of The Year FIFPro World XI, Ligue 1 Top Scorer Twice Serie A Top Scorer Two Times  La Liga Most Valuable Player Three Times.

Also Played For: chile national football team

Final Words

. . 2010 Fifa World Cup Best Players of Alltime were chosen by the fans and experts. Some of the best players in history such as Pele, Diego Maradona, Franz Beckenbauer and Zinedine Zidane participated in this event.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup was a monumental event that marked the beginning of a new era for world football.

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Andrew Kovacs

I am a Head Boys Soccer Coach at Amherst Regional Public Schools in Massachusetts. I have coached for the past five years and I am currently working on my master's degree in Exercise Science. I coach soccer because I love the game and I enjoy being around the kids. It is rewarding to see them develop their skills and grow as individuals. LinkedIn

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