mejores futbolistas del siglo XX — These are without a doubt the best footballers of the 20th century

The best footballers of the 20th century

Last update January 8, 2025 by Alberto Llopis

The 20th century marked the consolidation of football as the most popular sport in the world., and in this period legendary players emerged who revolutionized the game and left an indelible mark on history. These footballers transcended their time, They became references and continue to be remembered as the best in their respective eras.. Then, We explore the most notable figures of the last century, players whose skill and legacy continue to be admired.

Skin: The King of Soccer

Pelé is synonymous with football. Born in Brazil, Pelé won three World Cups (1958, 1962 Y 1970), a record that still stands. His scoring ability, Creativity on the field and vision of the game made him a global icon. More than 1.000 career goals, Pelé was a pioneer who brought Brazilian football to the world elite. And as is logical, He is one of the best footballers of the 20th century.

Diego Maradona: The Ball Genius

Diego Armando Maradona, He born in Argentina, He is remembered as one of the most talented and charismatic players in history. His performance in the World Cup 1986, where he led Argentina to victory and scored the famous “Goal of the Century” against England, consecrated him as a legend. Maradona combined technical ability, vision of the game and an unmatched ability to shine in crucial moments.

Johan Cruyff: The Football Philosopher

Dutchman Johan Cruyff not only revolutionized the game as a player, but also as a football coach and thinker. Leader of the famous “Total Football” of Ajax and the Dutch national team in the years 70, Cruyff redefined the role of the player on the field. His influence was key in the transformation of FC Barcelona, where he won multiple titles and laid the foundation for the modern style of play.

Alfredo Di Stéfano: The Blonde Arrow

Argentine by birth and Spanish by adoption, Alfredo Di Stéfano shone especially at Real Madrid, where he led the team during its golden era. With five consecutive European Cups between 1956 Y 1960, Di Stéfano showed unmatched versatility, standing out as a scorer, assistant and leader within the field. His impact transcended generations, making him one of the best players of all time. He also ended up appearing in different films as an actor..

best footballer of Real Madrid — The signing of the Argentine was a before and after not only in the history of Real Madrid but also in European football. The meringue set won, among many other titles, the first 5 European cups of its history. One of the best of all time (20minutes)

Michel Platini: The French Magician

Michel Platini dominated European football during the years 80. The French midfielder stood out for his technique, precision and ability to score goals from the center of the field. He was the leader of Juventus and the French team, with which he won the European Championship 1984. Platini also left his mark on history as a three-time Ballon d'Or winner..

Franz Beckenbauer: Kaiser

The German Franz Beckenbauer redefined the role of the defender by incorporating exceptional elegance and vision of the game. He was captain of the German team that won the World Cup. 1974 and coached the team that won the World Cup in 1990. Beckenbauer also shone with Bayern Munich, establishing himself as one of the most complete footballers in history. The Kaiser became historic when he ended up playing in the World Mexico 1970 with arm in sling.

Garrincha: The Joy of the People

Manuel Francisco dos Santos, known as Garrincha, He was a unique Brazilian winger. His dribbling ability and style of play captivated fans in the years 50 Y 60. Winner of two World Cups (1958 Y 1962), Garrincha is remembered as a footballer who played with pure passion and joy. Also for having a disorderly life outside the field where he had many children with many women..

Pele Garrincha — Pele and Garrincha, idols of Santos and Botafogo respectively, They were instrumental in the Brazil team that won two World Cups in a row (4-4-2)

Ferenc Puskás: The Hungarian Commander

Ferenc Puskás led the legendary Hungarian team of the years 50, known as the “Golden Team”. With his extraordinary scoring ability, Puskás shone both in international football and Real Madrid, where he conquered multiple titles. His name is associated with some of the best goals ever seen.

Lev Yashin: The Tsar of the goal

The only goalkeeper to win the Golden Ball, Lev Yashin, He is considered the best goalkeeper in history. Defending the goal of the Soviet Union and the Moscow dynamo, Yashin stood out for his reflexes, Agility and leadership. His impact on football was so great that FIFA appointed in his honor the world's best goalkeeper award. The black spider is one of the best footballers of the 20th century.

Nickname ‘The Black Spider’ by their clothing that color, Yashin led the Soviet Union and Dinamo de Moscow, club where he spent his entire career. He is the only goalkeeper to have received the Ballon d'Or in all of history. (Football Passion)

George Best: The Genius of Manchester United

George Best, dazzled by his skill, speed and charisma, On and off the field. Manchester United idol, Best was key in winning the European Cup in 1968. A footballer whose talent places him among the greatest in history. Some of the best phrases of George Best They are historical.

A Golden Era for Football

The 20th century left us a generation of footballers who not only dominated their time, but they also laid the foundations for the development of modern football. His exploits and contributions continue to inspire players and fans., ensuring that his impact remains alive in the history of the most beautiful sport in the world.