15 Greatest Playmakers Of All Time
10) Didi
The man who invented the “dry leaf” free kick, Didi, was one of the greatest playmakers of all time. He played for Botafogo in Brazil and had a short spell with the Spanish giants, Real Madrid. His vision, technique, stamina, and passing made him one of the greatest playmakers of all time
Didi’s most notable performance came in the World Cup in 1958, as he won the player of the tournament award. He also won the World Cup in 1962, thus enjoying a successful international career.
9) Ronaldinho
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Ronaldinho is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining footballers ever born. He often left everyone, including the opponents, in awe when he had the ball at his feet. Watching him was nothing less than magic. He was more about tricks and majestic touch rather than his passing ability.
Ronaldinho won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 and was named the FIFA World Player of the Year for two consecutive years (2004 and 2005). He is one such personality you just couldn’t hate. He enjoyed a stellar career with FC Barcelona and Brazil.
8) Michael Laudrup
Michael Laudrup is one of the only few players to have played for both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. He was a vital member of Johan Cruyff’s “Dream Team”. He has won titles everywhere he played and is rated highly not only by the fans but also by the critics.
Michael Laudrup is called the greatest Denmark player ever, and also one of the best foreign player to play in the Spanish league. He was also named in Real Madrid’s greatest foreign XI.
7) Michel Platini
Michel Platini was a footballer blessed with exquisite passing ability and silky dribbling skills. Platini had an amazing career in France with Nancy and Saint-Etienne before moving to Juventus where he had most of his club success.
Platini’s peak came at Euro 1984 where he was both the player of the tournament as well as the top scorer in a winning campaign for France. He is also a three-time Ballon d’Or winner which cements his legacy as one of the greatest.
6) Xavi
Xavi Hernandez was an absolute metronome of a footballer. He dictated everything that happened on the pitch during Barcelona’s greatest years.
There are very few who can claim to have the passing ability that Xavi possessed. Xavi provided 29 assists in the treble-winning 2008/09 season of Barcelona which is a testament to the playmaker he was.
Xavi won trophies in abundance in his career. World Cup, European Championships, Champions Leagues, League Titles. He has won it all.