49 Free Kick Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

Football is an exciting sport with many amazing players. One player stands out among the rest when it comes to free kicks – the best free kick taker in the game.

His name is David Beckham, and he is widely considered to be one of the most talented free kick takers in the history of football. Beckham has made a name for himself with his incredible accuracy and power when it comes to taking free kicks.

He is known for his pinpoint accuracy, his powerful shots, and his ability to score from any range. He has scored numerous goals from free kicks throughout his career and has earned a reputation as one of the best free kick takers in the game.

David Beckham is a true master of the free kick, and his achievements have made him one of the all-time greats.

1. David Beckham

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David Beckham is a renowned English footballer who has enjoyed a long and successful career in the sport. He has played for some of the world’s top clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and PSG, and represented his country in the 2002 World Cup.

Beckham’s legacy in football is remarkable as he is the only English player to have won league titles in four different countries.

He is also the first Englishman to be named as a FIFA World Player of the Year. After retiring from playing, Beckham has continued to be involved in football, taking on various roles.

He is currently the president and co-owner of Inter Miami, as well as the co-owner of Salford City. He has also started his own organization, the David Beckham Academy, which aims to provide young people with the opportunity to learn and develop their footballing skills.

The academy has had success in the form of a number of graduates being signed to professional clubs. Beckham is also heavily involved in charity work, most notably the 7 Fund, which he launched in 2015.

The 7 Fund has provided support to people and communities in need around the world, particularly in East Africa. The achievements and contributions of David Beckham have been recognized with several awards throughout his career, including being made an OBE (Order of the British Empire).

He is a role model for aspiring footballers and an inspiration to many people.

2. Juninho Pernambucano

Antônio Augusto Ribeiro Reis Júnior, more commonly known as Juninho Pernambucano or simply Juninho, is a former professional football player from Brazil.

He was renowned for his footballing abilities and is now the sporting director of the French club Lyon. Juninho began his professional career in 1994 with Brazilian club Sport Recife, becoming one of the most important players for the team and helping them win the Copa do Nordeste in 1997.

After spending three years at Sport Recife, he moved to Vasco da Gama and then to Cruzeiro.

He then went to Mexico’s Club America, where he won the CONCACAF Champions League in 2006. In 2007, Juninho signed for Lyon, a prestigious French club, where he stayed until his retirement in 2013.

During his time at Lyon, he was an integral part of the team and won multiple titles, including seven Ligue 1 titles, four Coupe de France titles and four Trophée des Champions titles. Juninho is now the sporting director of Lyon, where he is responsible for the club’s sporting strategy and the recruitment of new players.

He is widely respected for his achievements as a footballer and is seen as an important figure in the football world.

3. Ronaldinho Gaúcho

Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, famously known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho or just Ronaldinho, is a retired professional footballer from Brazil. He had a great career as an attacking midfielder and was also sometimes used as a winger.

Ronaldinho was renowned for his superb technical skills and his ability to create chances for his teammates. He was also a free-kick specialist and was capable of scoring fantastic goals from long-range free-kicks.

His mastery of the ball was widely appreciated and he was considered one of the best players of his generation. He was also a great entertainer and was praised for his unique style of play.

Ronaldinho’s career spanned more than two decades, and he was a part of some of the biggest clubs in the world such as FC Barcelona, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. He won numerous accolades including the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005.

Ronaldinho retired from professional football in 2018, but he still remains an inspirational figure for many aspiring footballers around the world.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is an acclaimed professional football player from Portugal. He plays as a forward for Al Nassr, a club in Saudi Pro League, and is also the captain of the Portugal national team.

His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro GOIH ComM and he is highly regarded for his impressive football skills. Ronaldo is a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, a five-time Champions League winner, and a European Champion in 2016.

He has also achieved multiple league titles in England, Spain, and Italy.

His previous clubs include Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. In addition to his footballing career, Ronaldo has also been involved in various charitable activities, such as his work with UNICEF, and his own CR7 Foundation, which is dedicated to helping children and young people in need. Ronaldo has had an illustrious career and is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.

His impressive skills, determination, and ambition have earned him many accolades and awards, making him one of the most recognizable faces in the world of sports.

5. Diego Maradona

Diego Armando Maradona is widely considered to be one of the greatest footballers in the history of the sport. He was born in Argentina and spent most of his professional career in the country.

Maradona played for several different teams throughout his career, including Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Napoli, and was a manager of the Argentina national team. Maradona was renowned for his skill on the ball and his incredible dribbling ability.

He was also a very creative playmaker, setting up chances for his teammates and scoring goals himself. His presence and leadership on the pitch made him an inspirational figure for his fellow players.

Maradona’s accomplishments earned him many individual accolades, including the FIFA Player of the 20th Century award, which he shared with Brazilian star Pele. He was also named the World Soccer Player of the Year on three separate occasions.

Maradona’s legacy lives on, and many current players have cited him as a major influence on their development.

6. Rogério Ceni

Rogério Mücke Ceni is a highly respected figure in the world of football, both as a player and a coach. He is a Brazilian professional football coach and former player and is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Brazilian football history.

His achievements as a goalkeeper have been recognized by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics, as he holds the record for the most goals scored by a goalkeeper in the history of football. Throughout his illustrious career, Ceni has made numerous achievements and accolades that have helped to cement his place as one of the all-time greatest Brazilian goalkeepers.

He has won several league titles, and several state championships, and was the first goalkeeper to reach 1,000 games for one club.

In addition, he was part of the Brazil national team that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup. In addition to his impressive record as a player, Ceni has also made a successful transition to the coaching side of the game.

He is currently the manager of Sao Paulo FC, where he has won multiple titles and has guided the team to the semi-finals of the 2020 Copa Libertadores.

Ceni’s success as a manager is a testament to his knowledge and experience in the game, which have been honed through his successful career as a player. It is clear that Rogério Mücke Ceni is a highly accomplished and respected figure in the world of football, both as a player and a coach.

His numerous achievements speak to his skill, knowledge, and dedication to the game, and will surely be remembered for many years to come.

7. Zico

Arthur Antunes Coimbra, better known as Zico, is a legendary figure in the world of football. He is a former player and current football coach from Brazil. During his playing career, Zico was known for his attacking midfield play.

He was renowned for his skill on the ball and his ability to create chances for his teammates and score goals himself.

Zico had an illustrious playing career, winning numerous trophies with Brazilian side Flamengo, including the Intercontinental Cup, three Rio State Championships, and two Brazilian Championships.

He was also part of the Brazilian national team that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup and was named South American Footballer of the Year twice. In his coaching career, Zico has managed several clubs in Brazil, Japan, and Turkey, as well as the national teams of Iraq and Japan.

In addition, he has been involved in youth and grassroots football initiatives, such as his own ‘Zico 10’ program, which encourages children to take up football. Zico’s impact on the game of football is undeniable.

He has inspired generations of fans and players around the world with his unique brand of attacking football. His legacy as one of the greatest players of all time lives on.

8. Lionel Messi

Lionel Andrés Messi, more commonly known as Leo Messi, is a professional soccer player who has made an incredible impact on the sport.

He is an Argentine professional footballer who currently plays as a forward for Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club, and captains the Argentina national team.

Messi’s career has been nothing short of legendary, having broken and set numerous records in soccer, and winning the Ballon D’or a record six times. Messi is widely considered to be one of the greatest soccer players of all time, and his skill on the pitch has been praised and admired by millions of fans across the globe.

He is known for his incredible dribbling ability, his ability to score goals from anywhere on the field, and his fantastic passing.

Messi is also known for his work ethic, often staying late after practice and putting in extra hours in order to reach his goals. The Argentine forward has had a long and illustrious career, having started his professional career at the age of 13.

Since then, he has scored an amazing 693 goals in 762 appearances for his club and country combined. He has also won numerous awards and titles, including the 2008 Olympics Golden Ball, five UEFA Champions League titles, and ten La Liga titles.

Messi is also the all-time leading goalscorer for both Barcelona and Argentina and has been named the FIFA World Player of the Year five times. Messi’s talent and skill on the pitch have earned him millions of fans, and his commitment and dedication to the game have earned him the respect of his peers and coaches alike.

With his continued success, Messi looks set to continue making an impact in the world of soccer for many years to come.

9. Ronald Koeman

Ronald Koeman is a highly accomplished professional football manager and former player. He currently serves as the manager of the Netherlands national team, where he has brought considerable success to the team in his short tenure.

Koeman is a Dutchman and has had a long and successful career in football both as a player and a manager. As a player, Koeman had a reputation for his excellent free-kick-taking ability, as well as his defending and passing abilities.

He spent most of his career at Ajax, where he won 2 Eredivisie titles and the UEFA Cup. He also had successful stints at PSV and Barcelona, where he won the European Cup in 1992.

He retired in 1997, after a distinguished career in which he was capped 78 times for the Dutch national team. As a manager, Koeman has had a similarly successful career. He has managed a number of clubs including Ajax, Benfica, PSV, Valencia, Feyenoord, Southampton and Everton.

He has won several trophies with these teams, most notably the Dutch Eredivisie title with Ajax in 2004 and the Portuguese League title with Benfica in 2009.

He was appointed manager of the Netherlands national team in 2018 and has since guided the team to the Nations League Finals and the semi-finals of the 2020 UEFA European Championship.

Ronald Koeman is a highly successful and respected manager and is currently leading the Netherlands national team on the path to success.

10. Pelé

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Edson Arantes do Nascimento, more commonly known as Pelé, was a legendary Brazilian professional footballer who played as a forward. His incredible achievements in the game of football have earned him the title of one of the greatest players of all time.

He was also one of the most successful and popular sports figures of the 20th century. Pelé began his football career at a young age, playing for the Santos Football Club in 1956.

Over the next 18 years, he won three World Cups and scored over 1,000 goals in his professional career. He became a national hero in Brazil after winning the World Cup in 1958 at just 17 years old. Pelé’s success was not just limited to his individual performance.

He also led his team Santos to two Intercontinental Cups and eight Rio State Championships. He was the first footballer to win three World Cup titles in 1958, 1962 and 1970.

His popularity was so widespread that he is often referred to as “the King of Football”.Pelé’s fame was not just limited to his footballing career. He also had a successful career in acting and music. He even appeared in a few movies and released his own music album.

He was also very active in the political sphere and was the United Nations ambassador for ecology and the environment.

He was also affiliated with several humanitarian causes and was a strong advocate for social justice. Pelé remains one of the most iconic and influential figures in the world of football, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of players and fans.

His incredible achievements and dedication to the game of football will ensure that he will remain one of the greatest players of all time and one of the most popular sports figures of the 20th century.

11. Víctor Legrotaglie

Victor Antonio Legrotaglie was a legendary footballer and coach. He began his professional career in 1953 at Gimnasia y Esgrima de Mendoza, where he quickly became an idol and symbol of the institution.

As a midfielder, Legrotaglie was a great team player and had a knack for controlling the ball. He was a master of positioning and passing, able to make the most out of any given situation.

His skills and work ethic made him one of the most beloved and respected players in Argentine football. Legrotaglie’s leadership qualities and tactical prowess also made him a valuable asset on the coaching front.

After retiring from playing, he took up coaching and managed several different teams, including the Mendoza side. Such was Legrotaglie’s impact on the club that he was named an honorary member of the institution.

Thanks to his incredible career, Legrotaglie will always be remembered as one of the greatest players and coaches in Argentine football history.

12. Marcelinho Carioca

Marcelo Pereira Surcin, popularly known as Marcelinho Carioca, was a Brazilian professional footballer who was well-known for his attacking midfield role.

He was especially noted for his incredible accuracy from free-kicks; in fact, Marcelinho Carioca scored an astonishing 80 free-kick goals in official matches throughout his career, which is a record that remains unmatched by any other player in the world.

In recognition of his incredible ability from set pieces, Marcelinho Carioca was nicknamed “Pé-de-Anjo” or “Angel’s Foot”, a reference to his ability to score with such accuracy from free-kicks as if it was a divine gift.

Marcelinho Carioca’s career as a professional footballer is a testament to his unparalleled accuracy from free-kicks, making him one of the most celebrated players in Brazil.

13. Alessandro Del Piero

Alessandro Del Piero is an Italian former professional footballer. He was best known for playing as a deep-lying forward but was able to play various attacking positions.

During his time as a footballer, Del Piero was known for his skill with the ball and his ability to score goals, making him one of the most prolific and successful players in Italian football.

After retiring from professional football in 2015, Del Piero has been working as a pundit for Sky Sport Italia, providing analysis and commentary on the game.

His expertise and knowledge of the game has made him a valuable asset to the network, and he offers valuable insight into the latest trends and stories in Italian football.

14. Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos da Silva Rocha is a Brazilian former professional footballer who is better known by his nickname Roberto Carlos or RC3. He is a well-known figure in the football world and has achieved a great deal of success as a player.

During his career, he won four FIFA World Cup titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies, and three UEFA Super Cups.

He also won a La Liga title with Real Madrid, as well as several individual awards, such as the 2000 UEFA Club Footballer of the Year and the 2002 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball. Today, Roberto Carlos is retired from playing and has transitioned into a football ambassador role.

He travels around the world to promote and support football, both in terms of the game itself and the positive impact it can have on society as a whole. He is respected and admired by football fans and players alike and remains a significant figure in the world of football.

15. Andrea Pirlo

Andrea Pirlo is a legendary Italian former professional football player who is currently the head coach of Serie B club Sampdoria.

He is widely considered one of the greatest midfielders in the history of the game due to his unparalleled vision, ball control, technique, creativity, passing, and free-kick ability.

His ability to read the game and create chances from nothing was a joy to watch and earned him legendary status among football fans. Pirlo was also known for his ability to score goals from free kicks, something that not many players have been able to replicate.

Throughout his career, Pirlo has won numerous trophies, including two Champions League titles and six Serie A titles.

He was also a part of the Italian team that won the 2006 World Cup and was awarded the Ufficiale OMRI (Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic) in recognition of his contribution to Italian football.

Now at Sampdoria, Pirlo is bringing the same qualities to the Serie B club. He has already made an impact at the club, leading them to the playoffs in his first season as head coach. With his knowledge and experience, Pirlo is sure to be a success in his new role.

16. Juan Román Riquelme

Juan Román Riquelme is a legendary Argentine footballer who played the majority of his career for Boca Juniors.

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers from Argentina, with many journalists, players, and coaches hailing him as one of the best to ever play the game. Riquelme was part of the Boca Juniors team that won the Copa Libertadores in 2000 and 2003.

He was one of the most creative players in the world, renowned for his skillful touch, vision, and passing accuracy.

He was also a dynamic playmaker, able to deliver the perfect through ball to his teammates. Riquelme’s career also included stints with Villarreal and Argentinos Juniors, but he was most at home with Boca Juniors, where he was part of a golden era for the club.

He was voted South American Footballer of the Year in 2003 and was chosen in the FIFA 100, a list of the best living footballers of all time nominated by Pelé. Riquelme retired from football in 2015, and in 2017 he was appointed vice-president of Boca Juniors.

He continues to be held in high esteem by football fans and pundits alike, and his legacy continues to live on in the world of football.

17. Shunsuke Nakamura

Shunsuke Nakamura is a renowned Japanese former professional footballer. He has been a prominent figure in the football world for many years, having been named the J.League Most Valuable Player on two separate occasions, in 2000 and 2013.

This makes him the only person to have received this award twice. His latest role is that of the first team coach of Yokohama FC. Nakamura had a successful career as a professional footballer, playing for numerous teams in the J.League, such as Reysol, and Yokohama F.

Marinos, and Jubilo Iwata. He also had spells abroad, playing for the likes of Celtic, Espanyol, and Reggina.

During his time with Celtic, Nakamura was renowned for his set-piece abilities, scoring many spectacular goals from free-kicks, corners, and penalties. Nakamura retired from professional football in 2017, and in the same year, he was appointed as the first team coach of Yokohama FC.

Under his leadership, the team has become a formidable force, reaching the semi-finals of the J.League Cup in 2020 and finishing third in the J.League in 2021.

As a coach, he has been praised for his tactical acumen and his ability to develop young players. Shunsuke Nakamura is a respected figure in the Japanese footballing world.

He has achieved success both as a player and a coach, and his exceptional ability to read the game and to develop young players makes him a valuable asset to any team.

18. Michel Platini

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Michel François Platini is an iconic figure in the world of football. He is a French football administrator, former player and manager, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

His achievements on the field speak for themselves, as he won the Ballon d’Or award three times in a row in the years 1983, 1984, and 1985. In the FIFA Player of the Century vote, he came in seventh place, further solidifying his legacy on the field.

Not only was Platini an extraordinary football player, but he was also a successful manager and administrator. After his retirement from playing, he became the president of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) in 2007.

He was responsible for numerous reforms that have had a positive impact on European football. His dedication and passion for the sport has been an inspiration to football fans around the world. Platini’s accomplishments on and off the field are something to be admired.

He has left an indelible mark in the history of football and will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest ever.

19. Siniša Mihajlović

Siniša Mihajlović is a famous Serbian footballer and manager. He had a long and successful career in football, playing as a defender and midfielder. As a defender, he was renowned for his physical strength, bravery, and determination.

He was also known for his technical ability and passing accuracy in the midfield. Mihajlović made his debut as a professional footballer in 1988 with the Yugoslavian club Red Star Belgrade. He then went on to play for Italian clubs Lazio, Sampdoria, and Inter Milan.

During his time in Italy, Mihajlović was part of successful teams that won multiple Serie A titles, Coppa Italia trophies, and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup. As a manager, Mihajlović has had a successful career. He has managed multiple clubs in Serbia, Italy, and Russia.

He also served as the Serbian national team manager from 2012 to 2018. During his time as national team manager, he led the team to the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 European Championship. Overall, Siniša Mihajlović is a legendary figure in Serbian football.

His career as a footballer and manager has been hugely successful and he will be remembered for his contributions to the game.

20. Pierre van Hooijdonk

Pierre van Hooijdonk is a renowned former professional footballer who enjoyed a lengthy and successful career across Europe. He was best known for his role as a striker, and his ability to find the back of the net was a major factor in his success.

During his playing days, Van Hooijdonk was highly sought after by clubs due to his impressive goal-scoring record. Van Hooijdonk was also a regular for the Dutch national team, earning 46 caps during his international career.

He scored 14 goals for his country and was part of the squads that competed at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Euro 2000 and Euro 2004.

Van Hooijdonk was a key figure in the Dutch team and played an important role in helping the side reach the semi-finals of the latter two tournaments.

21. Gianfranco Zola

Gianfranco Zola is a widely respected figure in the world of football. He is a former footballer who spent most of his playing career as a forward, and is now a football manager and vice-president of the Lega Pro, the Serie C football league.

He is the recipient of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (OMRI) and the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to football.Zola began his playing career in Italy, playing for teams such as Napoli, Parma, and Cagliari.

He won the UEFA Cup with Parma in 1999 and moved to Chelsea in 1996, where he was an integral part of the team that won the FA Cup in 1997 and the League Cup in 1998.

He also won the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup with Chelsea in 1998. Since retiring from playing, Zola has worked as a football manager, coaching teams such as West Ham United, Watford, Cagliari, and Al-Arabi.

He currently serves as vice-president of the Lega Pro, the Serie C football league.

He has also been involved in the development of youth football and was appointed the ambassador of the Italian FA to promote the development of football in India and the Far East. Zola is a highly respected figure in the football world, having achieved success both as a player and as a manager.

He is a true ambassador for the game, and his appointment as vice president of the Lega Pro will ensure that the Serie C football league continues to grow and develop.

22. Álvaro Recoba

Álvaro Alexánder Recoba Rivero is an accomplished Uruguayan former footballer who was known for his versatility and ability to play both as a forward and midfielder.

He began his footballing career in his native country before making the move to Europe in 1997 when he signed with Italian side Inter Milan.

During his 11 seasons at Inter Milan, Recoba established himself as an integral part of the team, becoming a fan favorite and helping the team to make a number of successful runs in the UEFA Champions League.

After leaving Inter Milan in 2008, Recoba ventured to other clubs in Europe, including Torino, Venezia, and Nacional, before coming back to Uruguay to end his career in 2018.

Throughout his career, Recoba was renowned for his technical ability and skillful dribbling, as well as his accurate passing and shooting. He was also known for his free-kick-taking prowess, having scored a number of impressive goals from set pieces.

His influence on the game has been recognized by fans and pundits alike, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers to have ever come out of Uruguay.

23. Gheorghe Hagi

Gheorghe Hagi is an accomplished former Romanian footballer who has had a successful career not only as a player but also as a manager.

He is currently the owner and manager of the Liga I club Farul Constanța. Hagi began his football career in 1983, joining the Romanian football club Sportul Students. He went on to play for some of Europe’s most famous clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Galatasaray.

During this time, he won a variety of accolades including being named the Romanian Footballer of the Year in both 1990 and 1994. In 1996, Hagi retired from professional football and began his managerial career.

He managed several teams in Romania, Turkey, and the UAE before taking over as the manager of Farul Constanța in 2017.

Under Hagi’s management, the team has achieved promotion to Liga I and is now competing in the top flight of Romanian football. Hagi is known for his attacking style of football and has been credited with helping to develop some of Romania’s most talented footballers.

He is a passionate advocate for the development of Romanian football and has been involved in several initiatives including the Gheorghe Hagi Football Academy. Gheorghe Hagi has had a distinguished career in the world of football and is a respected figure in Romania.

He is the owner and manager of Farul Constanța in Liga I, and is widely regarded as one of the best managers in the country.

24. Roberto Baggio

Roberto Baggio is an Italian former professional footballer who was highly versatile and could play in various attacking positions. Baggio began his career as a second striker and attacking midfielder, but he was also capable of playing in other attacking roles.

During his illustrious career, he represented several Italian clubs and the Italian national team. He was known for his dribbling and passing skills, as well as his accurate shooting from a distance.

After retiring from professional football, Baggio became the president of the technical sector of the Italian Football Federation, where he worked on the development of youth football in Italy.

He is also widely respected for his charitable work, with Baggio having provided financial support and supplies to communities affected by natural disasters.

25. Marcos Assunção

Marcos dos Santos Assunção was a Brazilian professional footballer who was well-known for his exceptional free kick skills. He began his career playing for clubs in Brazil before moving to Europe and playing for teams in Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

He was particularly successful at Roma in Italy and Real Betis in Spain, where he became a household name. Assunção was a central midfielder and his main strength was his ability to score from free kicks.

He was considered to be one of the best free kick specialists in the world. He was able to place the ball accurately at the goal from any distance. His skill in this area made him a valuable asset to any team he was on.

His ability to score from free kicks was a major part of his success at both Roma and Real Betis. Assunção was a world-class footballer who was admired by many fans.

26. Marcelinho

Marcelo Leite Pereira, better known as Marcelinho, is a former professional footballer from Brazil. He used to play as a winger or attacking midfielder. His professional career began with the Atlético Madrid B, a Spanish club.

After his time with this club, Marcelinho continued his footballing journey across the world, playing for clubs from Brazil, Spain, Greece, the United Arab Emirates, and India. Marcelinho is known for his impressive agility and technical skill on the pitch.

He was able to create plenty of chances for his teammates and was often the one scoring the goals himself.

Aside from his domestic successes, he was also a key member of the Indian football team, helping them to win the AFC Cup in 2015. Marcelinho’s career was an incredible journey full of successes and ups and downs.

He had the chance to experience different cultures, play with different teams, and make a name for himself in many countries. He is an inspiration to all aspiring footballers around the world and will always be remembered as one of the greats.

27. James Ward-Prowse

James Michael Edward Ward-Prowse is an accomplished professional footballer from England. He currently plays as a central midfielder for West Ham United, a club in the Premier League, and the England national team.

He has been playing in the Premier League since 2014 when he signed with Southampton.

He made a name for himself with Southampton, becoming a regular starter for the club, and was even named to the Premier League Team of the Season in 2016-17. Since joining West Ham United in 2021, Ward-Prowse has continued to impress, contributing to the team’s success.

He has also been a key member of the England national team, appearing in multiple international competitions and friendlies.

His technical ability, leadership, and accurate passing have been praised by both his current and former coaches. Ward-Prowse is an important figure in the world of football, and his future looks bright.

With his talent, drive, and determination, he will likely continue to be a key player for both West Ham United and the England national team for many years to come.

28. Steven Gerrard

Steven George Gerrard is a highly decorated and respected professional football manager and former player. He is currently the manager of the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq.

Gerrard is a native of England and has achieved a great deal of success throughout his footballing career. Gerrard began his professional career in 1998, playing for Liverpool in the Premier League.

He would go on to become one of the most decorated players in the club’s history, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup in 2006.

He also earned a number of individual awards, including the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2001 and the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year in 2005. In 2015, Gerrard retired from professional football and began his managerial career.

He first managed Liverpool’s U18s before taking charge of the first team in 2018.

After a successful spell at Liverpool, Gerrard was appointed manager of Al-Ettifaq in 2020. Gerrard is also a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), an honor bestowed upon him for his services to football in 2017.

In addition to being a successful manager and former player, Gerrard is also a highly respected figure in the footballing world.

29. Sebastian Larsson

Bengt Ulf Sebastian Larsson is a retired professional footballer from Sweden. He was a midfielder, playing for his hometown club IFK Eskilstuna before being signed by Arsenal.

Larsson was an important part of IFK Eskilstuna for many years, playing a major role in the team’s success. His impressive performances and leadership skills caught the attention of Arsenal, who signed him up to join their ranks.

Larsson’s time at Arsenal was successful, as he made a major contribution to the team’s success. After his time at Arsenal, he returned to IFK Eskilstuna, where he continued to play until his retirement in 2019.

He was an important figure in Swedish football, being an inspiration to younger generations of players.

30. Nenê

Anderson Luiz de Carvalho, more commonly known as Nenê, is a professional Brazilian footballer. He is currently playing for Juventude and has become well-known for his excellent dribbling and crossing ability. In addition, he is also a specialist in taking free kicks.

Nenê has had a long and successful career, having played for notable clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Al-Gharafa, and Vasco da Gama. Nenê’s dribbling is often praised, as he is a player who can move the ball effectively and create spaces for himself.

His ability to cross the ball accurately also allows him to create chances for his teammates. Furthermore, his skill in taking free kicks is also highly regarded.

His ability to strike the ball accurately from dead-ball situations has produced many successful goals throughout his career. Overall, Nenê is a highly talented footballer. His ability to dribble, cross and take free kicks makes him an extremely valuable asset to any team.

He has been successful throughout his career and has established himself as one of the most respected Brazilian footballers of his generation.

31. Sejad Salihović

Sejad Salihović is a Bosnian professional footballer who is currently playing for 1899 Hoffenheim II in Germany. He has spent most of his career playing for the same team in the German Bundesliga. Before joining 1899 Hoffenheim, he had stints with Hertha BSC, Beijing Renhe, St.

Gallen and Hamburger SV.Salihović began his career at 1899 Hoffenheim, joining the team in 2007. He quickly established himself as a regular in the first team and played a significant role in the club’s promotion to the Bundesliga in 2011.

After four years in the top division, he moved to Hertha BSC in 2015, before joining Beijing Renhe in 2017. In 2018, Salihović returned to Europe, signing for Swiss club St. Gallen. He stayed there for a year before joining Hamburger SV.

He then returned to 1899 Hoffenheim in 2020, signing with their second team. Overall, Sejad Salihović has enjoyed a successful career as a professional footballer.

He has featured in the top divisions of both Germany and Switzerland and has experience playing in both the Bundesliga and Chinese Super League. He is currently playing for 1899 Hoffenheim II and will be looking to make an impact in the German second division.

32. Frank Lampard

Frank Lampard is a name that will forever be associated with Chelsea Football Club. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the club and one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.

Lampard began his playing career with West Ham United in 1995, before moving to Chelsea in 2001. During his time at the club, he made a total of 429 appearances and scored an impressive 147 goals in all competitions.

His impact was so great that he earned the nickname “Mr. Chelsea”.After his retirement from playing, Lampard took up the role of caretaker manager of Premier League club Chelsea in 2019.

He was able to help the team to a top-four finish in his first season as manager, and his influence on the team has been evident ever since. In addition, he was awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2015 for his services to football.

Frank Lampard’s legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation and of Chelsea’s greatest players ever will be remembered forever. His influence on the club is undeniable, and his contributions to the team on and off the field have been immense.

33. Paulo Dybala

Paulo Exequiel Dybala is a world-renowned Argentine professional footballer who plays an important role in both the Serie A club Roma and the Argentina national team. He is widely recognized for his remarkable dribbling ability, swift movement, and aptitude for scoring goals.

His agility and ball control make him a valuable asset on the pitch, allowing him to easily maneuver around defenders and create opportunities for himself and his team.

Dybala has earned a reputation for being a creative, versatile player who can make decisive plays that result in goals. His technique and finesse on the ball make him a constant threat to opponents, forcing them to remain on their toes at all times.

His goal-scoring prowess has made him a fan favorite throughout his career, and his continued success has earned him praise from both his teammates and opponents.

Dybala’s skill and tenacity have helped him become one of the most impressive attacking midfielders or wingers in the world of football.

34. Aleksandar Kolarov

Aleksandar Kolarov is a Serbian former professional footballer who spent the majority of his career as a left back. He started his career in 2004 at Red Star Belgrade, one of Serbia’s most successful clubs.

However, he was unable to make a significant impact at the club and was eventually moved to Čukarički, another Serbian team. At Čukarički, Kolarov began to make a name for himself as a reliable left back.

He quickly gained recognition for his defensive skills and was eventually called up to the Serbian national team. He made over 80 appearances for the national team and helped them to qualify for several international tournaments.

His impressive performances for Čukarički soon attracted the attention of bigger clubs and in 2008 he signed for Italian side Lazio. At Lazio, Kolarov established himself as one of the best left-backs in Europe and won several individual awards.

He was also part of the squad that won the 2013 Coppa Italia and the 2012 Supercoppa Italiana. After seven successful years at Lazio, Kolarov made the switch to Manchester City in July 2017.

He helped the club to three Premier League titles and two League Cups during his time there and was part of a side that broke multiple records. Aleksandar Kolarov is now considered one of the greatest Serbian footballers of all time.

He has achieved great success throughout his career and is an inspiration for many aspiring footballers.

35. Hakan Çalhanoğlu

Hakan Çalhanoğlu is a talented Turkish footballer who currently plays for Serie A club Inter Milan and captains the Turkey national team.

He is widely regarded as one of the best free-kick specialists in the game, having the ability to score from a variety of angles and distances. His free-kick ability has earned him a great deal of recognition and has been a key factor in Inter Milan’s success in recent years.

His ability to score from dead-ball situations makes him an invaluable asset to the team. His accuracy and technique are highly regarded and have been a major factor in his success as a professional footballer.

He has also gained a lot of attention from other teams, with his free-kick skills being a major draw for potential suitors. Despite his success, Çalhanoğlu remains humble and continues to work hard to improve his game and become an even better player.

36. Rafael van der Vaart

Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart is a former Dutch professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He began his career at Ajax’s youth academy, and at just 17-years-old, he made his debut for the first team.

Van der Vaart was known for his skillful playmaking, which drew comparisons to the great Johan Cruyff. His agility, ball control, and positioning made him a valuable asset for any team he played for.

He was widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation, and his impressive career earned him several honors, including the Dutch Golden Boot award.

Van der Vaart was also a big presence on the international stage, representing his country in several major tournaments, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He retired from professional football in 2018, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of football fans around the world.

37. Miralem Pjanić

Miralem Pjanić is a professional football player from Bosnia and Herzegovina. He currently plays as a midfielder for Sharjah, which is part of the UAE Pro League. In addition, he is also a member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team.

Pjanić’s career in the sport began with a season with Metz, a French team. During his time there, he was able to hone his skills as a midfielder and build a foundation for his professional career in football.

He went on to move to Sharjah, where he has continued to make a name for himself in the sport. With his current team, he has been able to make a significant impact, helping them to succeed in the UAE Pro League.

He also continues to be an integral part of the Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team, where he has been able to make a real difference for his country.

38. Oleksandr Aliyev

Oleksandr Oleksandrovych Aliyev is a former professional footballer from Ukraine. He was a versatile midfielder who could play in a variety of positions, including as a right midfielder and central midfielder.

He is especially well-known for his impressive goals from direct free-kicks, a skill that earned him glowing praise from his former Dynamo Kyiv coach Yuri Syomin, who famously declared him as “the best free-kick taker in Europe”.

Aliyev’s skill and talent from set pieces was so impressive that it earned him the reputation of being one of the most feared players from dead-ball situations all across Europe.

His technical ability and eye for goal from free-kicks was legendary and it has been a major part of his legacy as a professional footballer.

39. Ian Harte

Ian Patrick Harte is an impressive figure in the world of football. He is an Irish football agent and a former professional footballer who played as a left back.

He was renowned for his spectacular ability to score goals from long range, which included being a free kick specialist. Harte began his career at Leeds United and during his nine seasons there, he made 288 official appearances.

This successful stint earned him a reputation as one of the most talented left backs in the world of football. Harte’s impressive goal-scoring abilities were known to be unmatched by many of his peers.

He was able to accurately control and direct his shots from long range, often from free kicks. This enabled him to score goals from outside of the penalty area, something that few players can manage.

Additionally, his natural athleticism and quick reflexes allowed him to quickly tackle and intercept opposition players. Harte’s career at Leeds United is remembered fondly by many.

During his nine seasons at the club, he was an important part of the team and helped them to achieve success.

His 288 official appearances at the club were a testament to his commitment and loyalty, as well as his quality as a footballer. Overall, Ian Patrick Harte is a highly respected figure in football.

His impressive goal-scoring and defensive abilities, as well as his successful stint at Leeds United, have earned him a special place in the football world. He will surely continue to inspire many generations of footballers to come.

40. Leighton Baines

Leighton John Baines is an English former professional footballer who played as a left back. He had a long and successful career in the professional football scene, playing for various teams including Wigan Athletic and Everton.

During his career, he earned a reputation as one of the best full-backs in the game, and his defensive prowess was admired by both players and coaches alike. After retiring from playing, Baines has remained involved in the sport.

He is currently the Professional Development Coach and U-18s head coach at Everton, the team he played for for over ten years. In this role, Baines works with the younger players at the club, helping them to develop their skills and become better players.

He also works closely with the first team, offering his expertise and guidance to them. Baines’ experience and knowledge of the game are invaluable to the club, and his work is helping to ensure Everton remain competitive and successful in the future.

41. Kieran Trippier

Kieran John Trippier is an English professional footballer who has been playing in the Premier League for some time now. He currently plays as a right-back for Newcastle United, one of the top clubs in the English Premier League.

Trippier has also represented the England national team on multiple occasions, with his most recent international appearance being at the 2018 World Cup.

As a right-back, he is known for his strong defensive abilities, as well as his excellent passing and crossing, meaning he is a great asset to any team.

Trippier has become an important part of the Newcastle United team and will no doubt continue to play a key role for the club in the future.

42. Christian Eriksen

Christian Dannemann Eriksen is an accomplished footballer who has achieved great success throughout his career. He currently plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Manchester United and the Denmark national team.

His impressive footballing skills have earned him a great reputation among fans and pundits alike. Eriksen is widely known for his superb vision, exceptional technique, and accurate passing ability.

He is considered to be one of the best players in his position, due to his ability to read the game and pick out the right pass.

His power and accuracy when it comes to free kicks is also highly praised, as he can often score goals from long range. Eriksen has been one of the key players for Manchester United and Denmark over the past few years, and his performance has been consistently excellent.

He is a key playmaker for his teams, and he has the ability to make something out of nothing with his creative passing and set pieces.

He is also a great leader on the pitch, and he helps to dictate the tempo of the game and take control of the midfield. Overall, Christian Dannemann Eriksen is a world-class footballer who has made a huge impact on the game.

His unique set of skills make him one of the best players in the world, and he is sure to be remembered for his excellent career.

43. Laurent Robert

Pierre Laurent Robert is a former professional footballer who was born in France. He played as a left winger and was a part of the France national team. He started his career in his home country but eventually moved to England to play for Newcastle United.

It was at Newcastle United that Robert became famous for his free-kick abilities. His technique of taking set pieces was so impressive that he earned the nickname “The Magician” from his fellow players and fans.

Robert was able to bend the ball in the most unlikely of angles and find the back of the net. His ability to score goals from free kicks was a valuable asset to Newcastle United, which helped them to win several matches.

Robert also earned numerous individual awards for his set-piece prowess, including being voted the best free-kick taker in the Premier League. He retired from football in 2011, but his legacy as a free-kick expert lives on.

44. Morten Gamst Pedersen

Morten Gamst Pedersen is a Norwegian professional footballer who currently plays for the Norwegian side Ranheim. He started his professional career with Tromsø, a Norwegian club, before transferring to Blackburn Rovers of the English Premier League in 2004.

During his nine year stint at Blackburn Rovers, Pedersen made a total of 349 appearances.

After leaving Blackburn Rovers in 2013, he moved to the Turkish side Karabükspor for two years before returning to his homeland and signing for Ranheim in 2015. During his time at Blackburn Rovers, Morten Gamst Pedersen established himself as one of the most important figures in the squad.

He was an integral part of the team, helping the club to remain in the Premier League for nine consecutive seasons.

He scored a total of 38 goals in 349 appearances, his most famous goal coming in 2007 when he scored a stunning volley against Manchester United. Pedersen is also highly regarded in his native Norway, having been capped at senior level for his country on 61 occasions.

He has been a part of the Ranheim team since 2015, helping the club to promotion to the top tier of Norwegian football.

He is considered one of the most experienced and talented players in the Norwegian league and is set to play a key role in helping Ranheim to remain in the Eliteserien in the coming seasons.

45. Nolberto Solano

Nobby Solano is a highly renowned Peruvian footballer who has enjoyed a successful career both on and off the pitch.

He is a retired professional footballer who played as a midfielder and is currently the assistant manager of the Peru national football team as well as the manager of the Peru Olympic football team.

The former footballer was born as Nolberto Albino “Ñol” Solano Todco but is more commonly known as Nobby Solano. During his playing career, Solano made an impressive 463 appearances and scored 47 goals for various teams over an 18-year period.

He represented his country, Peru, in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, and is remembered as one of the most successful Peruvian footballers of all time. Since hanging up his boots, Solano has gone on to become a respected coach and manager.

He has held the position of assistant manager of the Peru national football team since 2018 and has also served as the manager of the Peru Olympic football team since 2020.

Both of these roles demonstrate his extensive knowledge of the game and his leadership capabilities. Solano has established a great legacy in the world of football, and his contributions to both the sport and his country have been invaluable.

He is a true inspiration to aspiring footballers, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to success in any field.

46. Jamie Redknapp

Jamie Frank Redknapp is a well-known figure in the world of sports. He is an English former professional footballer who had a successful career spanning from 1989 to 2005.

During his playing career, Redknapp was considered one of the most talented midfielders of his time and was often praised for his technical ability. After his retirement from the sport, Redknapp has remained active in the world of sports.

He is currently a pundit at Sky Sports where he provides analysis and commentary on various matches. Additionally, he serves as an editorial sports columnist at the Daily Mail, where he regularly writes articles about various topics related to sports.

Overall, Jamie Frank Redknapp has had a long and successful career in the world of sports, and his contributions have been essential in the growth of the sport.

47. Dimitri Payet

Dimitri Payet is a professional footballer from France who currently plays for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Vasco da Gama. He plays as an attacking midfielder, which is a position in the center of the field tasked with providing support to the forwards.

Payet is a highly experienced player who has had a long and successful career in France, the United Kingdom and now Brazil. At club level, Payet has represented a variety of teams in France, England, and now Brazil.

He began his career at Saint-Pierroise in his native France in 2004 before moving to Nantes in 2006. Payet then moved to Lille in 2011 where he enjoyed success, winning Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France in 2011.

In 2015, Payet joined West Ham United in the English Premier League, where he was an integral part of the team’s success and scored 15 goals in his two seasons at the club. In 2017, Payet moved to Marseille and helped the team to a UEFA Europa League final appearance.

He most recently joined Vasco da Gama in Brazil and has helped the team achieve success since 2019. Payet has also represented the French national team in numerous international tournaments, including the UEFA Euro 2016 where he was one of France’s star players.

He has earned 68 caps for his country and scored eight goals. Overall, Dimitri Payet is an experienced and successful professional footballer who has had an impressive career in France, the United Kingdom and Brazil.

He currently plays as an attacking midfielder for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Vasco da Gama and has helped the team achieve success in recent years.

48. Dani Parejo

Daniel Parejo Muñoz is a highly experienced Spanish professional football player currently playing for Villarreal. He began his professional career as a part of the Real Madrid team, and it was at Getafe where he first made a name for himself in La Liga.

In 2011, Parejo transferred to Valencia, where he went on to appear in 383 official matches and help the team to win the 2019 Copa del Rey. Parejo is known for his strong midfield presence and his ability to read the game.

He is an important asset to the team and has been a key contributor to their successes over the years.

49. Gylfi Sigurðsson

Gylfi Þór Sigurðsson is an Icelandic professional footballer who currently plays for Everton in the Premier League. He began his professional career with Reading in the Championship, where he made an impact and achieved success.

In 2010, he was sold to 1899 Hoffenheim, which was Reading’s biggest sale at the time. The transfer was a huge success for both Gylfi and Hoffenheim, as Gylfi proved his worth and helped Hoffenheim to achieve promotion to the Bundesliga.

After five successful seasons with Hoffenheim, Gylfi moved to Everton in 2017 and has since established himself as an important member of their squad.

Gylfi’s career has been marked by success, and he is now one of the most highly-rated attacking midfielders in the Premier League.

Conclusion

The best player in free kick is a matter of opinion. Everyone has their own preferences for what they consider the best free-kick taker. While some may favor the power of a strong shot, others may prefer the accuracy and finesse of a more technical kick.

Ultimately, the best player in free kick is subjective and depends on individual preference.

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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