It’s about this time of year that various publications start to come out with their list of the 100 best players in the world. So I thought I’d wind the clock back 30 years and imagine what a list in 1989 might have looked like.
100. Lajos Détári 🇭🇺
Olympiacos - Forward
Has not really lived up to the hype since his £4.5m move to Greece but possesses huge talent. A set-piece expert, he’s looking to recapture the form that so impressed during his spell at Eintracht Frankfurt.
Olympiacos - Forward
Has not really lived up to the hype since his £4.5m move to Greece but possesses huge talent. A set-piece expert, he’s looking to recapture the form that so impressed during his spell at Eintracht Frankfurt.
99. Riccardo Ferri 🇮🇹
Inter - Centre-back
One of the game’s premier markers, he might lack some of the class of a number of his fellow Italians but his positioning and anticipation more than compensate. Forms a superb right-sided partnership for club and country with Bergomi.
Inter - Centre-back
One of the game’s premier markers, he might lack some of the class of a number of his fellow Italians but his positioning and anticipation more than compensate. Forms a superb right-sided partnership for club and country with Bergomi.
98. Marius Lacatus 🇷🇴
Steaua Bucharest - Forward
Whether out wide or through the middle, the direct running and incisive approach of Lacatus are hard to contain. Steaua have made themselves one of the continent’s most feared sides and the Romanian star is a constant danger.
Steaua Bucharest - Forward
Whether out wide or through the middle, the direct running and incisive approach of Lacatus are hard to contain. Steaua have made themselves one of the continent’s most feared sides and the Romanian star is a constant danger.
97. Branco 🇧🇷
Porto - Left-back
Possessing a thunderous left foot, Branco is emerging as one of the most impressive left-backs in the world. Looks the natural long-term successor to Junior for the Selecao.
Porto - Left-back
Possessing a thunderous left foot, Branco is emerging as one of the most impressive left-backs in the world. Looks the natural long-term successor to Junior for the Selecao.
96. Toni Polster 🇦🇹
Sevilla - Striker
While his spell at Torino was hardly a resounding success, the powerful Austrian frontman is already proving his worth in Seville. Superb in the air, he terrorised defences domestically before moving abroad.
Sevilla - Striker
While his spell at Torino was hardly a resounding success, the powerful Austrian frontman is already proving his worth in Seville. Superb in the air, he terrorised defences domestically before moving abroad.
95. Michal Bílek 🇨🇿
Sparta Prague - Midfielder
Renowned as a dead ball specialist, Bílek is a potent threat from the right side of midfield. His 2 goals against Portugal in October proved crucial in securing World Cup qualification for Czechoslovakia.
Sparta Prague - Midfielder
Renowned as a dead ball specialist, Bílek is a potent threat from the right side of midfield. His 2 goals against Portugal in October proved crucial in securing World Cup qualification for Czechoslovakia.
94. Enzo Scifo 🇧🇪
Auxerre - Midfielder
If talent was the only factor, there would be few players ahead of Scifo. Ever since his emergence in 1984, he’s shown flashes of brilliance for the Red Devils but needs to demonstrate greater consistency at club level.
Auxerre - Midfielder
If talent was the only factor, there would be few players ahead of Scifo. Ever since his emergence in 1984, he’s shown flashes of brilliance for the Red Devils but needs to demonstrate greater consistency at club level.
93. Adri Van Tiggelen 🇳🇱
Anderlecht - Left-back
Not the most fashionable of selections, but a dogged and reliable performer. One of the unsung heroes of the Oranje’s Euro 88 triumph.
Anderlecht - Left-back
Not the most fashionable of selections, but a dogged and reliable performer. One of the unsung heroes of the Oranje’s Euro 88 triumph.
92. Dan Petrescu 🇷🇴
Steaua Bucharest - Right-back
Steaua were well beaten in the European Cup final but plenty of their players made an impression on the road to Barcelona. Petrescu’s forays down the right flank made him one to watch for the future.
Steaua Bucharest - Right-back
Steaua were well beaten in the European Cup final but plenty of their players made an impression on the road to Barcelona. Petrescu’s forays down the right flank made him one to watch for the future.
91. Sergei Aleinikov 🇧🇾
Juventus - Midfielder
One of a host of Soviet stars to impress at Euro 88, the Belorussian midfielder is technically excellent and positionally astute. Can he transfer that form to Serie A after a move to Juve?
Juventus - Midfielder
One of a host of Soviet stars to impress at Euro 88, the Belorussian midfielder is technically excellent and positionally astute. Can he transfer that form to Serie A after a move to Juve?
90. Claudio Caniggia 🇦🇷
Atalanta - Forward
Blessed with exceptional pace, the sight of Caniggia in full flight is one of football’s greatest sights. Argentina’s most impressive player at the Copa America, he has a superb understanding with Maradona.
Atalanta - Forward
Blessed with exceptional pace, the sight of Caniggia in full flight is one of football’s greatest sights. Argentina’s most impressive player at the Copa America, he has a superb understanding with Maradona.
89. Andoni Zubizarreta 🇪🇸
Barcelona - Goalkeeper
Dependable and commanding presence at the back who is deservedly Spain’s number 1. Has impressed consistently since his move from Bilbao to Catalonia.
Barcelona - Goalkeeper
Dependable and commanding presence at the back who is deservedly Spain’s number 1. Has impressed consistently since his move from Bilbao to Catalonia.
88. Silas 🇧🇷
Sporting Lisbon - Forward
Widely regarded as the next great Brazilian magician, Silas is part of a seemingly special generation. A fine first season in Lisbon has shown a maturity to his game that augurs well.
Sporting Lisbon - Forward
Widely regarded as the next great Brazilian magician, Silas is part of a seemingly special generation. A fine first season in Lisbon has shown a maturity to his game that augurs well.
87. Steve Nicol 🏴
Liverpool - Full-back
Versatile and a model of consistency, Nicol is a manager’s dream. Deservedly named as player of the year, though his qualities sometimes go unsung.
Liverpool - Full-back
Versatile and a model of consistency, Nicol is a manager’s dream. Deservedly named as player of the year, though his qualities sometimes go unsung.
86. Ruben Paz 🇺🇾
Racing Club - Midfielder
Last year’s leading player in South America, the exploits of Paz in Avellaneda have made him a local hero. Libertadores winner and central part of the Celeste national side.
Racing Club - Midfielder
Last year’s leading player in South America, the exploits of Paz in Avellaneda have made him a local hero. Libertadores winner and central part of the Celeste national side.
85. Laurent Blanc 🇫🇷
Montpellier - Centre-back
A prolific goalscorer from defence and midfield, Blanc exudes class on the ball. France’s shock World Cup exit will hurt but there are brighter times ahead.
Montpellier - Centre-back
A prolific goalscorer from defence and midfield, Blanc exudes class on the ball. France’s shock World Cup exit will hurt but there are brighter times ahead.
84. Rabah Madjer 🇩🇿
Porto - Forward
Scorer of a terrific goal in the 1987 European Cup final, Madjer is a player of true class. The North African star has demonstrated his class at Porto, even if his form can be erratic.
Porto - Forward
Scorer of a terrific goal in the 1987 European Cup final, Madjer is a player of true class. The North African star has demonstrated his class at Porto, even if his form can be erratic.
83. Michael Laudrup 🇩🇰
Barcelona - Midfielder
In Serie A Laudrup never quite showed his best form. Now, under the guidance of Johan Cruyff, there will be hopes he can replicate the displays he has shown in national colours.
Barcelona - Midfielder
In Serie A Laudrup never quite showed his best form. Now, under the guidance of Johan Cruyff, there will be hopes he can replicate the displays he has shown in national colours.
82. Paul McStay 🏴
Celtic - Midfielder
The Maestro is maturing into one of Europe’s best midfielders. Hugely accomplished on the ball, he makes the Bhoys tick and can go on to excel for Scotland as well.
Celtic - Midfielder
The Maestro is maturing into one of Europe’s best midfielders. Hugely accomplished on the ball, he makes the Bhoys tick and can go on to excel for Scotland as well.
81. Vasily Rats 🇺🇦
Dynamo Kiev - Midfielder
Best known for his thunderbolt against France in the 1986 World Cup, Rats has long impressed watchers of Soviet football. Also a scorer against Holland at the Euros.
Dynamo Kiev - Midfielder
Best known for his thunderbolt against France in the 1986 World Cup, Rats has long impressed watchers of Soviet football. Also a scorer against Holland at the Euros.
80. George Weah 🇱🇷
Monaco - Striker
Long-limbed but elegant attacker who has impressed many during his brief spell in France. Reigning African player of the year, Weah has bags of potential to fulfil.
Monaco - Striker
Long-limbed but elegant attacker who has impressed many during his brief spell in France. Reigning African player of the year, Weah has bags of potential to fulfil.
79. Junior 🇧🇷
Flamengo - Central Midfielder
Known to so many as one of the preeminent full-backs of the last decade, Junior’s switch to midfield has been an unmitigated success. An Indian summer at Pescara has been followed by a return to Flamengo.
Flamengo - Central Midfielder
Known to so many as one of the preeminent full-backs of the last decade, Junior’s switch to midfield has been an unmitigated success. An Indian summer at Pescara has been followed by a return to Flamengo.
78. Rudi Voller
Roma - Striker
Initial struggles after his move from Werder Bremen, but now firing on all cylinders in Serie A. Clever movement and a strong work ethic make Voller one of the game’s top forwards.
Roma - Striker
Initial struggles after his move from Werder Bremen, but now firing on all cylinders in Serie A. Clever movement and a strong work ethic make Voller one of the game’s top forwards.
77. Fyodor Cherenkov 🇷🇺
Spartak Moscow - Midfielder
While Soviet football has been dominated in recent years by Dynamo Kiev, Cherenkov’s quality helped Spartak overhaul their domestic rivals. A languid playmaker, there are few players who possess his range of passing.
Spartak Moscow - Midfielder
While Soviet football has been dominated in recent years by Dynamo Kiev, Cherenkov’s quality helped Spartak overhaul their domestic rivals. A languid playmaker, there are few players who possess his range of passing.
76. Jorginho 🇧🇷
Bayer Leverkusen - Right-back
Brazil’s new right-back seems to have it all. Strong defensively but confident going forward, the early signs on his European adventure suggest he’ll be a resounding Bundesliga success.
Bayer Leverkusen - Right-back
Brazil’s new right-back seems to have it all. Strong defensively but confident going forward, the early signs on his European adventure suggest he’ll be a resounding Bundesliga success.
75. Jürgen Klinsmann 🇩🇪
Inter - Striker
Already proving himself a handful in Serie A, the agile and acrobatic frontman has it all. Not just a fine goal scorer, but noted for his workrate, he is settling in at San Siro.
Inter - Striker
Already proving himself a handful in Serie A, the agile and acrobatic frontman has it all. Not just a fine goal scorer, but noted for his workrate, he is settling in at San Siro.
74. Hugo De Leon 🇺🇾
River Plate - Centre-back
Much travelled defender who wins wherever he goes. Having won a second Libertadores with Nacional, to add to his previous triumph with Grêmio, the giant defender is now off to the Monumental for more glory.
River Plate - Centre-back
Much travelled defender who wins wherever he goes. Having won a second Libertadores with Nacional, to add to his previous triumph with Grêmio, the giant defender is now off to the Monumental for more glory.
73. Rui Barros 🇵🇹
Juventus - Midfielder
The diminutive schemer might be short in stature but is full of imagination. An eye for a pass and deftness of touch make him one of Europe’s most attractive players to watch.
Juventus - Midfielder
The diminutive schemer might be short in stature but is full of imagination. An eye for a pass and deftness of touch make him one of Europe’s most attractive players to watch.
72. Emilio Butragueno 🇪🇸
Real Madrid - Striker
The leader of the pack at Real Madrid, Butragueno has been instrumental in their domestic dominance in recent years. Could score more goals to join the game’s highest echelon.
Real Madrid - Striker
The leader of the pack at Real Madrid, Butragueno has been instrumental in their domestic dominance in recent years. Could score more goals to join the game’s highest echelon.
71. Rinat Dasayev 🇷🇺
Sevilla - Goalkeeper
One of the great keepers of the decade, the giant Dasayev is now playing his trade in La Liga. A cornerstone of Soviet success, he remains a huge presence and every striker’s worst enemy.
Sevilla - Goalkeeper
One of the great keepers of the decade, the giant Dasayev is now playing his trade in La Liga. A cornerstone of Soviet success, he remains a huge presence and every striker’s worst enemy.
70. Jan Ceulemans 🇧🇪
Club Brugge - Midfielder
Tall and rangy midfielder whose versatility and drive have made him hugely rated. A prolific goalscorer, his services would be in high demand if he ever moved abroad.
Club Brugge - Midfielder
Tall and rangy midfielder whose versatility and drive have made him hugely rated. A prolific goalscorer, his services would be in high demand if he ever moved abroad.
69. João Pinto 🇵🇹
Porto - Right-back
Consistent and dependable full-back who has been one of Portugal’s leading players of the decade. Has spent his entire career at Porto.
Porto - Right-back
Consistent and dependable full-back who has been one of Portugal’s leading players of the decade. Has spent his entire career at Porto.
68. Ian Rush 🏴
Liverpool - Striker
Not quite back to his best after an ill fated spell in Italy, he showed his potency with two goals in the FA Cup final. When on form, he must rank among the finest finishers in world football.
Liverpool - Striker
Not quite back to his best after an ill fated spell in Italy, he showed his potency with two goals in the FA Cup final. When on form, he must rank among the finest finishers in world football.
67. Anatoliy Demyanenko 🇺🇦
Dynamo Kiev - Left-back
Full of energy and stamina down the left flank, his combination with Rats is a real menace. Technically strong and positionally aware.
Dynamo Kiev - Left-back
Full of energy and stamina down the left flank, his combination with Rats is a real menace. Technically strong and positionally aware.
66. Ruben Sosa 🇺🇾
Lazio - Forward
Squat, stocky forward who possesses a sublime left foot, Sosa is yet another South American of exceptional talent. Lit up the Copa America for Uruguay.
Lazio - Forward
Squat, stocky forward who possesses a sublime left foot, Sosa is yet another South American of exceptional talent. Lit up the Copa America for Uruguay.
65. Ricardo Gomes 🇧🇷
Benfica - Centre-back
The Brazilian skipper is one of the world’s most accomplished central defenders, noted for his positioning and leadership. Has settled well in Portugal, winning the title in his first season in Lisbon.
Benfica - Centre-back
The Brazilian skipper is one of the world’s most accomplished central defenders, noted for his positioning and leadership. Has settled well in Portugal, winning the title in his first season in Lisbon.
64. John Aldridge 🇮🇪
Real Sociedad - Striker
More than took his chance following the departure of Ian Rush from Anfield with a terrific season in front of goal. Now terrorising La Liga defences in San Sebastián.
Real Sociedad - Striker
More than took his chance following the departure of Ian Rush from Anfield with a terrific season in front of goal. Now terrorising La Liga defences in San Sebastián.
63. Wim Kieft 🇳🇱
PSV Eindhoven - Striker
Given the riches available to the Dutch it’s easy for Kieft to fly under the radar. A proven scorer and versatile frontman, he can ably deputise for Van Basten when needed.
PSV Eindhoven - Striker
Given the riches available to the Dutch it’s easy for Kieft to fly under the radar. A proven scorer and versatile frontman, he can ably deputise for Van Basten when needed.
62. Stefano Tacconi 🇮🇹
Juventus - Goalkeeper
Another who would surely get more attention if he played for another nation, the Juventus man is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. A tough character who is happy to ruffle a few feathers.
Juventus - Goalkeeper
Another who would surely get more attention if he played for another nation, the Juventus man is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. A tough character who is happy to ruffle a few feathers.
61. Jorge Burruchaga 🇦🇷
Nantes - Midfielder
Best known as the scorer of the winning goal in the 1986 World Cup final, Burru is an integral part of the Argentina national side. One of the few players of true class among a workmanlike cohort.
Nantes - Midfielder
Best known as the scorer of the winning goal in the 1986 World Cup final, Burru is an integral part of the Argentina national side. One of the few players of true class among a workmanlike cohort.
60. Andreas Moller 🇩🇪
Borussia Dortmund - Midfielder
Prolific scorer from midfield, Moller has a real fight on his hands to claim a starting place for West Germany. Never lacking in self-belief, he has the potential to go all the way.
Borussia Dortmund - Midfielder
Prolific scorer from midfield, Moller has a real fight on his hands to claim a starting place for West Germany. Never lacking in self-belief, he has the potential to go all the way.
59. Enzo Francescoli 🇺🇾
Marseille - Forward
One of the most elegant players in the game, the Prince has his followers wherever he goes. Doesn’t always display his best form in the club game since his move to France.
Marseille - Forward
One of the most elegant players in the game, the Prince has his followers wherever he goes. Doesn’t always display his best form in the club game since his move to France.
58. Hans van Breukelen 🇳🇱
PSV Eindhoven - Goalkeeper
Perennially among the best keepers in European football, Van Breukelen returned from his spell at Forest even stronger. An excellent penalty stopper.
PSV Eindhoven - Goalkeeper
Perennially among the best keepers in European football, Van Breukelen returned from his spell at Forest even stronger. An excellent penalty stopper.
57. Uwe Bein 🇩🇪
Eintracht Frankfurt - Midfielder
Going from strength to strength since his recent move from Hamburg, the creativity and drive of Bein have established his soaring reputation. Will have to work hard to be assured of a place in the national team.
Eintracht Frankfurt - Midfielder
Going from strength to strength since his recent move from Hamburg, the creativity and drive of Bein have established his soaring reputation. Will have to work hard to be assured of a place in the national team.
56. Paulo Futre 🇵🇹
Atlético Madrid - Winger
If he can return to peak form then Futre has the potential to rank among the very best in the world. Tricky, direct in his running, the Portuguese wide-man has all the attributes but needs to maintain consistency.
Atlético Madrid - Winger
If he can return to peak form then Futre has the potential to rank among the very best in the world. Tricky, direct in his running, the Portuguese wide-man has all the attributes but needs to maintain consistency.
55. Mauro Tassotti 🇮🇹
AC Milan - Right-back
Tough as nails defender who has made the right side of the Milan back line his own. Doesn’t offer too much going forward but doesn’t need to with the players around him.
AC Milan - Right-back
Tough as nails defender who has made the right side of the Milan back line his own. Doesn’t offer too much going forward but doesn’t need to with the players around him.
54. Oleg Kuznetsov 🇺🇦
Dynamo Kiev - Centre-back
One of the most impressive Soviet players at last year’s Euro 88 finals, Kuznetsov’s composure and intelligence on the ball make him a class apart.
Dynamo Kiev - Centre-back
One of the most impressive Soviet players at last year’s Euro 88 finals, Kuznetsov’s composure and intelligence on the ball make him a class apart.
53. Valdo 🇧🇷
Benfica - Midfielder
Didi, Gerson ... Valdo? Certainly the Brazilian schemer will be hoping he can emulate previous midfield generals and lift the Selecao to a first World Cup for 20 years.
Benfica - Midfielder
Didi, Gerson ... Valdo? Certainly the Brazilian schemer will be hoping he can emulate previous midfield generals and lift the Selecao to a first World Cup for 20 years.
52. Nicola Berti 🇮🇹
Inter - Midfielder
Cost Inter a huge fee but his excellent work at Fiorentina more than merited it. Part of Italy’s next generation of young stars.
Inter - Midfielder
Cost Inter a huge fee but his excellent work at Fiorentina more than merited it. Part of Italy’s next generation of young stars.
51. Hristo Stoichkov 🇧🇬
CSKA Sofia - Forward
He’s had more than his fair share of disciplinary problems but the talent of Stoichkov is not in doubt. Proving himself among Europe’s best goal scorers on the domestic scene.
CSKA Sofia - Forward
He’s had more than his fair share of disciplinary problems but the talent of Stoichkov is not in doubt. Proving himself among Europe’s best goal scorers on the domestic scene.
50. Oleh Protasov 🇺🇦
Dynamo Kiev - Striker
Powerful forward who leads the line so well. Physically imposing, he is comfortable enough on the ball to be an integral part of Lobanovskiy’s technically accomplished sides.
Dynamo Kiev - Striker
Powerful forward who leads the line so well. Physically imposing, he is comfortable enough on the ball to be an integral part of Lobanovskiy’s technically accomplished sides.
49. Dunga 🇧🇷
Fiorentina - Midfielder
Astute positional play and simplicity of passing are the hallmarks of the Brazilian youngster. Impressed in Pisa before earning his move to Florence.
Fiorentina - Midfielder
Astute positional play and simplicity of passing are the hallmarks of the Brazilian youngster. Impressed in Pisa before earning his move to Florence.
48. Michel Preud’homme 🇧🇪
Mechelen - Goalkeeper
Superb shot stopper, agile and alert, the Belgian has plenty of admirers. Fine distributor of the ball who was instrumental in Mechelen’s success.
Mechelen - Goalkeeper
Superb shot stopper, agile and alert, the Belgian has plenty of admirers. Fine distributor of the ball who was instrumental in Mechelen’s success.
47. Alexander Zavarov 🇺🇦
Juventus - Midfielder
Another Soviet star who impressed for the national side and with Dynamo Kiev prior to a move abroad. Yet to quite show his very best form with Juve.
Juventus - Midfielder
Another Soviet star who impressed for the national side and with Dynamo Kiev prior to a move abroad. Yet to quite show his very best form with Juve.
46. Jürgen Kohler 🇩🇪
Bayern Munich - Centre-back
Renowned as one of the best markers in the game, Kohler is now well established at the heart of West Germany’s defence. Prospering since a recent move to Bavaria.
Bayern Munich - Centre-back
Renowned as one of the best markers in the game, Kohler is now well established at the heart of West Germany’s defence. Prospering since a recent move to Bavaria.
45. Eric Gerets 🇧🇪
PSV Eindhoven - Right-back
For the entire decade Gerets has been among the best full-backs around. A cornerstone of PSV’s European success.
PSV Eindhoven - Right-back
For the entire decade Gerets has been among the best full-backs around. A cornerstone of PSV’s European success.
44. Mozer 🇧🇷
Marseille - Centre-back
Powerful, technically accomplished defender who has a real sense of style about his game. Excellent displays at Benfica earned a summer move to Marseille.
Marseille - Centre-back
Powerful, technically accomplished defender who has a real sense of style about his game. Excellent displays at Benfica earned a summer move to Marseille.
43. Peter Shilton 🏴
Derby County - Goalkeeper
Recently overtook Bobby Moore as England’s all-time leading appearance maker. Even at his advanced years, shows no signs of letting up in his quest for perfection.
Derby County - Goalkeeper
Recently overtook Bobby Moore as England’s all-time leading appearance maker. Even at his advanced years, shows no signs of letting up in his quest for perfection.
42. Mark Hughes 🏴
Manchester United - Forward
Back at Old Trafford after challenging times in Spain and Germany, Hughes is going from strength to strength. True quality in front of goal combined with a tireless workrate make him a fan favourite.
Manchester United - Forward
Back at Old Trafford after challenging times in Spain and Germany, Hughes is going from strength to strength. True quality in front of goal combined with a tireless workrate make him a fan favourite.
41. Oscar Ruggeri 🇦🇷
Real Madrid - Centre-back
Rugged central defender who was at the heart of Argentina’s 1986 World Cup win. An excellent spell at Logrones earned his move to the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid - Centre-back
Rugged central defender who was at the heart of Argentina’s 1986 World Cup win. An excellent spell at Logrones earned his move to the Bernabeu.
40. Aldo Serena 🇮🇹
Inter - Striker
A superb season in front of goal for Inter have boosted Gigi’s standing. Tall, powerful and able to bring teammates into the game make him an ideal foil.
Inter - Striker
A superb season in front of goal for Inter have boosted Gigi’s standing. Tall, powerful and able to bring teammates into the game make him an ideal foil.
39. Thomas Hassler 🇩🇪
Koln - Midfielder
Diminutive midfield schemer with intelligence and creativity. Has a tendency to ghost past defenders with a drop of the shoulder.
Koln - Midfielder
Diminutive midfield schemer with intelligence and creativity. Has a tendency to ghost past defenders with a drop of the shoulder.
38. Carlos Valderrama 🇨🇴
Montpellier - Midfielder
As famous for his remarkable hair as for his abilities on the field, the Colombian playmaker is among the game’s most recognisable faces. Sublime passer with rare vision.
Montpellier - Midfielder
As famous for his remarkable hair as for his abilities on the field, the Colombian playmaker is among the game’s most recognisable faces. Sublime passer with rare vision.
37. Peter Beardsley 🏴
Liverpool - Forward
An innate ability to find space and intelligence with the ball make Beardsley a class apart. Strikers love playing with him for the quality of his passing and selfless nature.
Liverpool - Forward
An innate ability to find space and intelligence with the ball make Beardsley a class apart. Strikers love playing with him for the quality of his passing and selfless nature.
36. Rafael Martin Vazquez 🇪🇸
Real Madrid - Midfielder
Cultured central midfield man who has an elegance on the ball and a flair about his play. Highly regarded across the Continent.
Real Madrid - Midfielder
Cultured central midfield man who has an elegance on the ball and a flair about his play. Highly regarded across the Continent.
35. Gary Lineker 🏴
Tottenham - Striker
Back in England and back to his best after a spell in Spain that had grown frustrating by the end. Devastating movement and timing make him an undoubted choice among the global elite.
Tottenham - Striker
Back in England and back to his best after a spell in Spain that had grown frustrating by the end. Devastating movement and timing make him an undoubted choice among the global elite.
34. Roberto Donadoni 🇮🇹
AC Milan - Midfielder
Classy winger who is one of the less noted figures at San Siro. Lacks a little in pace but compensates with his industry and quality on the ball. A real gem.
AC Milan - Midfielder
Classy winger who is one of the less noted figures at San Siro. Lacks a little in pace but compensates with his industry and quality on the ball. A real gem.
33. Gerald Vanenburg 🇳🇱
PSV Eindhoven - Winger
Hugely talented, Vanenburg cut his teeth at Ajax before making the move to PSV. That has paid off handsomely with a European Cup and European Championship victory under his belt.
PSV Eindhoven - Winger
Hugely talented, Vanenburg cut his teeth at Ajax before making the move to PSV. That has paid off handsomely with a European Cup and European Championship victory under his belt.
32. Rune Bratseth 🇳🇴
Werder Bremen - Centre-back
One of the best players in the Bundesliga, the Norwegian has been central to Werder’s recent success. The sweeper cost a relative pittance but is now among the finest in the business.
Werder Bremen - Centre-back
One of the best players in the Bundesliga, the Norwegian has been central to Werder’s recent success. The sweeper cost a relative pittance but is now among the finest in the business.
31. Baltazar 🇧🇷
Atletico Madrid - Striker
With a phenomenal 35 league goals last season, the Brazilian rightfully claimed the Pichichi. Time will tell whether he can maintain that exceptional burst of form.
Atletico Madrid - Striker
With a phenomenal 35 league goals last season, the Brazilian rightfully claimed the Pichichi. Time will tell whether he can maintain that exceptional burst of form.
30. Neville Southall 🏴
Everton - Goalkeeper
The best shot-stopper in the business. Agile and with exceptional anticipation, the Welshman is a huge favourite at Goodison after his years of superb service.
Everton - Goalkeeper
The best shot-stopper in the business. Agile and with exceptional anticipation, the Welshman is a huge favourite at Goodison after his years of superb service.
29. Bebeto 🇧🇷
Vasco da Gama - Forward
The outstanding player at this year’s Copa America, the Vasco man is a potent threat in front of goal. A wisp-like physique belies a tigerish hunger for success.
Vasco da Gama - Forward
The outstanding player at this year’s Copa America, the Vasco man is a potent threat in front of goal. A wisp-like physique belies a tigerish hunger for success.
28. Giuseppe Bergomi 🇮🇹
Inter - Defender
Whether at centre-back or the right of defence, Bergomi is a true master. It’s hard to believe he’s only now reaching his late 20s given his constant calm but he has many years of faultless service ahead.
Inter - Defender
Whether at centre-back or the right of defence, Bergomi is a true master. It’s hard to believe he’s only now reaching his late 20s given his constant calm but he has many years of faultless service ahead.
27. Jan Wouters 🇳🇱
Ajax - Midfielder
Powerful and indomitable central midfielder who has shown his iron will at the heart of Ajax and the Netherlands’ recent successes. Not a man to be messed with.
Ajax - Midfielder
Powerful and indomitable central midfielder who has shown his iron will at the heart of Ajax and the Netherlands’ recent successes. Not a man to be messed with.
26. Giuseppe Giannini 🇮🇹
Roma - Midfielder
The Prince of Rome more than deserves his cult status. Elegant both on and off the ball, he is the spark that brings the Giallorossi to life.
Roma - Midfielder
The Prince of Rome more than deserves his cult status. Elegant both on and off the ball, he is the spark that brings the Giallorossi to life.
25. Walter Zenga 🇮🇹
Inter - Goalkeeper
The best keeper in the world on current form. Agile, commanding and vocal with his defence, it takes something special to beat the man at the back for the Nerazzurri.
Inter - Goalkeeper
The best keeper in the world on current form. Agile, commanding and vocal with his defence, it takes something special to beat the man at the back for the Nerazzurri.
24. Roberto Mancini 🇮🇹
Sampdoria - Forward
One of the most extravagantly skilled players in the game. Majestic touch, clever movement and an irresistible understanding with those around him make Mancini a sublime figure.
Sampdoria - Forward
One of the most extravagantly skilled players in the game. Majestic touch, clever movement and an irresistible understanding with those around him make Mancini a sublime figure.
23. Bryan Robson 🏴
Manchester United - Midfielder
Captain Marvel remains one of the most industrious, dynamic and indefatigable players around. Injuries have taken their toll but few can match his remarkable blend of talents.
Manchester United - Midfielder
Captain Marvel remains one of the most industrious, dynamic and indefatigable players around. Injuries have taken their toll but few can match his remarkable blend of talents.
22. Andreas Brehme 🇩🇪
Inter - Left-back
Totally two-footed, Brehme is a man without an obvious weakness. The Inter full-back has settled well in Serie A as part of a German revolution in Milan.
Inter - Left-back
Totally two-footed, Brehme is a man without an obvious weakness. The Inter full-back has settled well in Serie A as part of a German revolution in Milan.
21. Alemao 🇧🇷
Napoli - Midfielder
He may be the least spectacular of Napoli’s trio of South Americans but there are few superior players to Alemao. The tenacious Brazilian blends silk and steel to great effect.
Napoli - Midfielder
He may be the least spectacular of Napoli’s trio of South Americans but there are few superior players to Alemao. The tenacious Brazilian blends silk and steel to great effect.
20. Gheorghe Hagi 🇷🇴
Steaua Bucharest - Midfielder
His soubriquet ‘the Maradona of the Carpathians’ gives an idea of the Romanian schemer’s qualities. A wand of a left foot, exceptional vision and no lack of confidence mean Hagi could yet challenge the South American.
Steaua Bucharest - Midfielder
His soubriquet ‘the Maradona of the Carpathians’ gives an idea of the Romanian schemer’s qualities. A wand of a left foot, exceptional vision and no lack of confidence mean Hagi could yet challenge the South American.
19. Dragan Stojkovic 🇷🇸
Red Star Belgrade - Midfielder
Another playmaker of subtle gifts. His dribbling and passing are of outstanding quality while his spacial awareness is first rate. Eastern Europe’s finest player.
Red Star Belgrade - Midfielder
Another playmaker of subtle gifts. His dribbling and passing are of outstanding quality while his spacial awareness is first rate. Eastern Europe’s finest player.
18. Chris Waddle 🏴
Marseille - Winger
He might have cost a huge fee but nobody at the Stade Velodrome cares any more. The mercurial brilliance of Waddle is a joy to watch with his trickery, ball control and joie de vivre.
Marseille - Winger
He might have cost a huge fee but nobody at the Stade Velodrome cares any more. The mercurial brilliance of Waddle is a joy to watch with his trickery, ball control and joie de vivre.
17. Glenn Hoddle 🏴
Monaco - Midfielder
Life in France seems to agree with Hoddle and he’s finally picked up a league title which eluded him at Spurs. Certainly the Monegasques appreciate the effortless artistry of this most un-English footballer.
Monaco - Midfielder
Life in France seems to agree with Hoddle and he’s finally picked up a league title which eluded him at Spurs. Certainly the Monegasques appreciate the effortless artistry of this most un-English footballer.
16. Alexei Mikhailichenko 🇺🇦
Dynamo Kiev - Midfielder
With suitors all across the Continent, the Dynamo man is hot property. The stand out figure for club and country.
Dynamo Kiev - Midfielder
With suitors all across the Continent, the Dynamo man is hot property. The stand out figure for club and country.
15. Jean-Pierre Papin 🇫🇷
Marseille - Striker
Acrobatic and spectacular frontman with a real nose for goal. One of the most natural goal scorers around. If anyone can reinvigorate French spirits it’s him!
Marseille - Striker
Acrobatic and spectacular frontman with a real nose for goal. One of the most natural goal scorers around. If anyone can reinvigorate French spirits it’s him!
14. Roberto Baggio 🇮🇹
Fiorentina - Forward
Italian football’s new golden boy. After arriving from Vicenza, Baggio has become a local idol in Florence. A player of supreme grace.
Fiorentina - Forward
Italian football’s new golden boy. After arriving from Vicenza, Baggio has become a local idol in Florence. A player of supreme grace.
13. Gianluca Vialli 🇮🇹
Sampdoria - Striker
Touted by many as a likely top scorer at next year’s World Cup, the young Vialli has it all. His exceptional workrate belies his aristocratic background while his understanding with Mancini borders on telepathic.
Sampdoria - Striker
Touted by many as a likely top scorer at next year’s World Cup, the young Vialli has it all. His exceptional workrate belies his aristocratic background while his understanding with Mancini borders on telepathic.
12. Paolo Maldini 🇮🇹
AC Milan - Left-back
Only 21 but already a veteran, Maldini looks very much the latest in a line of great Italian full-backs from Facchetti to Cabrini. Father Cesare skippered Milan to European glory and his son looks set to enjoy every possible success.
AC Milan - Left-back
Only 21 but already a veteran, Maldini looks very much the latest in a line of great Italian full-backs from Facchetti to Cabrini. Father Cesare skippered Milan to European glory and his son looks set to enjoy every possible success.
11. John Barnes 🏴
Liverpool - Midfielder
A mercurial talent during his spell at Watford, Barnes has matured into a masterful conductor under the guidance of Kenny Dalglish. Still needs to display his Liverpool form at international level.
Liverpool - Midfielder
A mercurial talent during his spell at Watford, Barnes has matured into a masterful conductor under the guidance of Kenny Dalglish. Still needs to display his Liverpool form at international level.
10. Careca 🇧🇷
Napoli - Striker
Devastating forward, full of direct running and relentless menace. A fine finisher who has built a superb understanding with Maradona in Naples.
Napoli - Striker
Devastating forward, full of direct running and relentless menace. A fine finisher who has built a superb understanding with Maradona in Naples.
9. Michel 🇪🇸
Real Madrid - Midfielder
Either on the right flank or through the middle, the Spaniard has real class. Plays with a swagger and exudes confidence for both club and country.
Real Madrid - Midfielder
Either on the right flank or through the middle, the Spaniard has real class. Plays with a swagger and exudes confidence for both club and country.
8. Lothar Matthaus 🇩🇪
Inter - Midfielder
Midfield dynamo who affects the game at both ends. Thumping right-foot and a constant drive keeps him among the goals.
Inter - Midfielder
Midfield dynamo who affects the game at both ends. Thumping right-foot and a constant drive keeps him among the goals.
7. Ronald Koeman 🇳🇱
Barcelona - Centre-back
What inspired Barca to make Koeman the most expensive defender in the world? A sublime range of passing, sumptuous right-foot and a reputation as a ferocious set-piece master.
Barcelona - Centre-back
What inspired Barca to make Koeman the most expensive defender in the world? A sublime range of passing, sumptuous right-foot and a reputation as a ferocious set-piece master.
6. Frank Rijkaard 🇳🇱
AC Milan - Centre-back
Whether in midfield or defence, Rijkaard is the complete package. Dynamic, composed and a man for the big occasion, it’s hard to spot an obvious weakness to his game.
AC Milan - Centre-back
Whether in midfield or defence, Rijkaard is the complete package. Dynamic, composed and a man for the big occasion, it’s hard to spot an obvious weakness to his game.
5. Franco Baresi 🇮🇹
AC Milan - Centre-back
Graceful, quick and never flustered, Baresi is the most stylish defender around. His reading of the game is second to none and he inspires confidence in those around him.
AC Milan - Centre-back
Graceful, quick and never flustered, Baresi is the most stylish defender around. His reading of the game is second to none and he inspires confidence in those around him.
4. Hugo Sanchez 🇲🇽
Real Madrid - Striker
The king of the one-touch finish. He might not link play like some forwards or set up too many goals for his teammates but nobody knows how to score them like the Mexican.
Real Madrid - Striker
The king of the one-touch finish. He might not link play like some forwards or set up too many goals for his teammates but nobody knows how to score them like the Mexican.
3. Ruud Gullit 🇳🇱
AC Milan - Midfielder
Injuries have taken a heavy toll but the class of Gullit shines through. Physically imposing but technically outstanding, he is the complete footballer.
AC Milan - Midfielder
Injuries have taken a heavy toll but the class of Gullit shines through. Physically imposing but technically outstanding, he is the complete footballer.
2. Diego Maradona 🇦🇷
Napoli - Forward
The transcendent talent of our time. A genius of impudent audacity who has established Napoli as a real force to be reckoned with. On his day, and they are often, nobody comes close.
Napoli - Forward
The transcendent talent of our time. A genius of impudent audacity who has established Napoli as a real force to be reckoned with. On his day, and they are often, nobody comes close.
1. Marco van Basten 🇳🇱
AC Milan - Striker
Balance, grace and guile. Touch, pace and style. What is Van Basten lacking? Almost nothing it would seem for the bewitching Dutchman has succeeded at every level. A true phenomenon who has room yet to develop.
AC Milan - Striker
Balance, grace and guile. Touch, pace and style. What is Van Basten lacking? Almost nothing it would seem for the bewitching Dutchman has succeeded at every level. A true phenomenon who has room yet to develop.
