Ronaldo Nazario's Pick for the 8 Greatest Footballers in History
Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario shared his thoughts on the greatest football players ever, naming eight icons who stand out in the sport's history. Among them are Lionel Messi and Pele, but notably, Cristiano Ronaldo was left out.
The debate over the best footballer of all time often centers on Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, given their combined 13 Ballon d'Or awards. Before them, Pele and Diego Maradona held similar status. Ronaldo Nazario’s perspective, as someone who excelled at the highest level himself, gives this list an interesting angle.
While some legends like Michel Platini, Alfredo Di Stefano, Zinedine Zidane, George Best, and Ferenc Puskas were not included, Ronaldo’s choices reflect his own experience and admiration.
Here are the eight players he selected, with key reasons why they belong in the GOAT conversation:
- Diego Maradona (Argentina, Attacking Midfielder)Maradona led Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986 and transformed Napoli into Serie A champions twice. His magic on the ball made him a revered figure, especially in Naples.Appearances: 435
- Goals: 194
- Assists: 134
- Appearances: 1180
- Goals: 922
- Assists: 454
- Appearances: 599
- Goals: 335
- Assists: 221
- Appearances: 724
- Goals: 88
- Assists: 85
- Appearances: 1363
- Goals: 1281
- Appearances: 431
- Goals: 301
- Assists: 92
- Appearances: 643
- Goals: 180
- Assists: 151
- Appearances: 553
- Goals: 360
- Assists: 108
Statistics sourced from Transfermarkt and FIFA.com, accurate as of June 25, 2026.
