The 5 Greatest European Footballers of All Time.

Euro 2024 has started. So obviously, international football is a big topic, so to ride the wave of a trending topic, we thought we’d put together a list of the G.O.A.T.s of European football. In Europe, we’re lucky to have, and have had, numerous talents, so it is a tough list, and you may (probably will) be surprised or disagree with some of them.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, often hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, I definitely stress ONE of, as the Messi vs. Ronaldo debate has never been settled. Despite this, Ronaldo has consistently delivered wherever he has gone, always known for his fast-paced, direct football that showcases all his skills. Starting at Sporting Lisbon, he caught the eye of Sir Alex Ferguson, who didn’t mess around and was quick to turn Ronaldo into a red in 2003. At United, Ronaldo developed into a world-class player, winning three Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008, earning the famous chant, “He plays on the left, he plays on the right…I’ll leave the rest out as I’m hoping England aren’t going to be ‘shite’ for the Euros!”

In 2009, Ronaldo transferred to Real Madrid for a then-record fee, where he became the club’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals in 438 appearances. His time at Madrid was marked by four Champions League titles and two La Liga titles, highlighted by his famous duel with rival Lionel Messi. After stints at Juventus and a return to Manchester United, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level and currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Read into that “money” move as you wish, but he remains a legend. In our opinion, he is the best ever European player.

2. Paolo Maldini

Paolo Maldini is basically AC Milan. Spending his entire 25-year career at Milan, Maldini epitomised loyalty and excellence. Known for his elegance on the ball, impeccable positioning, and tactical intelligence, he was the backbone of Milan’s defense.

Maldini won seven Serie A titles and five European Cups/Champions League titles, becoming a player who can say, “Yep, done it all…a lot!” His leadership qualities were unmatched, and he captained both Milan and the Italian national team with distinction. Even after retiring, Maldini’s influence continues as he takes on roles in football management, ensuring his legacy continues. I don’t think he’ll be forgotten any time soon.

 3. Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane, often referred to simply as “Zizou,” is celebrated for his sublime technical skills and vision. Zidane’s journey from the slums of Cannes to Juventus and then to Real Madrid shows that your background is irrelevant if you have endeavor and skill.

Zidane’s ability to control the game, with his flair for scoring crucial goals, set him apart. At Real Madrid, Zidane won the UEFA Champions League in 2002, famously scoring a stunning volley in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. He also led France to World Cup glory in 1998 and the European Championship in 2000. Always known as hotheaded, Zidane’s competitive instinct sometimes came with a warning—who can forget the World Cup final headbutt? Later in life, as a manager, Zidane has excelled, guiding Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles. His impact on and off the pitch makes him a true football legend, although somewhat infamous.

 4. Johan Cruyff

Johan Cruyff revolutionised football both as a player and as a coach. His philosophy, known as “Total Football,” emphasised fluidity and versatility, where players could interchange positions at the drop of a hat. Everyone knows the Cruyff turn; well, if a skill move in football is named after you, you know you’ve done something right! Cruyff’s playing career was illustrious, winning three Ballon d’Or awards and leading Ajax to three consecutive European Cups in the early 1970s. That’s right, you heard correctly: Ajax, yes, they were good once upon a time.

At Barcelona, Cruyff’s influence was profound, both as a player and later as a coach. He laid the groundwork for the club’s philosophy and youth development system, carrying on what made him such a great player, which has produced some of the greatest talents in football. Cruyff’s legacy is evident in the way football is played today, making him one of the most influential figures in the sport’s history.

5. Alan Shearer

Alan Shearer, he was my sporting hero when I was young, so him being in this category is very subjective, but it’s my list and I’ll pick who I want! Regardless of my opinion, Shearer was revered as one of the greatest strikers in Premier League history. Starting his career at Southampton, Shearer moved to Blackburn Rovers, where he won the Premier League title in 1995, which is amazing in itself when you look at where Blackburn are now. His remarkable goal-scoring ability, strength, and leadership were instrumental in Blackburn’s success.

Shearer later joined Newcastle United, where he became the Premier League’s all-time top scorer with 260 goals, a record that still stands. His consistency and knack for finding the back of the net made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in English football. Plus, he is the best penalty taker ever: power and precision into the top corner, unstoppable, preparing for his trademark one-arm celebration Despite not winning numerous titles, Shearer’s individual brilliance and impact on the Premier League are undeniable. His only blemish was not pursuing a coaching career and taking the easy option on MOTD. Sorry, Alan, please forgive me.