Best Players in the History of Real Madrid: Real Madrid is a highly successful Spanish club with a rich history of winning trophies. It is ranked as the top European club in our ranking of the best clubs in history. The club holds several records, including the most La Liga titles (35), King’s Cup titles (19), and notably the most Champions League titles (14).
Throughout its history, Real Madrid has been home to extraordinary players. From the era of Santiago Bernabéu in the 1920s to current stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos, as well as legendary figures like Di Stéfano and Zidane, the club has seen many great players grace its ranks.
Real Madrid is one of the most prestigious teams in the world, and compiling a list of the best players in its history is a challenging task. Nonetheless, we will attempt to select the top 20 players who have represented the club since its establishment in 1902.
IMPORTANT
This ranking is just someone’s opinion and may not be seen as a definite answer. Different fans and teams may have different views on the matter. It’s challenging to reach an agreement on rankings when there are so many talented players involved. The intention is to share personal opinions, but it’s important to remember that not everyone will agree with them.
Ranking with the 20 Best Players in the History of Real Madrid
Before we begin the ranking, it’s important to understand how we will evaluate each player. Our assessment will be based on a combination of data and opinions to determine the most influential and impactful footballers in Real Madrid’s history.
It’s not surprising that some of the players mentioned in this article are also included in the ranking of the best players in football history. This is expected considering Real Madrid is the most successful club in the sport, having won numerous titles.
How are we going to rank the best players in merengue history?
To determine the best players in Real Madrid’s history, we will consider three criteria that will help us rank and organize them.
- Individual Quality: 30%.
- Titles: 40%.
- Leadership: 30%.
It’s understandable that younger fans may only be familiar with a few players, but Real Madrid has a rich history spanning over 100 years. There have been many stars who have showcased their talent at the Santiago Bernabéu, which is considered one of the top stadiums in the world.
20. Fernando Hierro
- Full Name: Fernando Ruiz Hierro
- Date of Birth: 23 March 1968
- Height: 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in)
- Position(s): Defender, Defensive Midfielder
Fernando Hierro, a legendary captain of Real Madrid, played for the team for over ten years and participated in more than 600 official matches. Very few players have been able to achieve such numbers.
One of Hierro’s greatest moments was in the 1998 European Cup final against Juventus, which took place on May 20. He did an excellent job of neutralizing Alessandro Del Piero, a key player for Juventus. Real Madrid ultimately won the match 1-0, thanks to a goal from Pedja Mijatovic, securing their seventh European Cup title.
During Hierro’s time at Real Madrid, he led the team to two more European titles. What’s particularly impressive is that he scored 147 goals from a defensive position. This is quite remarkable for a player who started his career as a traditional midfielder but later became a central defender.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1989–2003 | 439 | 102 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga | 1989–90, 1994–95, 1996–97, 2000–01, 2002–03 |
| Copa del Rey | 1992–93 |
| Supercopa de España | 1990, 1993, 1997, 2001 |
| UEFA Champions League | 1997–98, 1999–2000, 2001–02 |
| Intercontinental Cup | 1998, 2002 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2002 |
| Copa Iberoamericana | 1994 |
19. Ronaldo
- Full Name: Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima
- Date of Birth: 18 September 1976
- Height: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
- Position(s): Striker
Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, commonly known as Ronaldo or Ronaldo Nazário, had a remarkable career at Real Madrid. He joined the club in the summer of 2002, transferring from Internazionale (Inter Milan) for a world-record fee of €46 million at the time. Ronaldo was signed by Real Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez as part of his ambitious “Galácticos” project, which aimed to assemble a team of star players.
During his time at Real Madrid, Ronaldo showcased his incredible goal-scoring abilities and helped the club achieve great success. In his first season, he made an immediate impact, scoring 23 goals in 32 league appearances and guiding Real Madrid to the 2002-2003 La Liga title. His performances were electrifying, and he formed a devastating attacking partnership with fellow Galácticos like Zinedine Zidane, Luís Figo, Raúl, and Roberto Carlos.
In the 2003-2004 season, Ronaldo faced some injury setbacks but still managed to contribute with crucial goals. Real Madrid finished as runners-up in La Liga, and Ronaldo himself scored 24 goals in 34 league matches. The following season, injuries continued to plague him, limiting his playing time and affecting his form.
However, Ronaldo’s time at Real Madrid was marked by moments of brilliance. He possessed a unique blend of speed, strength, and skill that made him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to dribble past multiple opponents and his clinical finishing made him one of the most feared strikers in the world.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2002–2007 | 127 | 83 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| Intercontinental Cup | 2002 |
| La Liga | 2002–03, 2006–07 |
| Supercopa de España | 2003 |
18. Toni Kroos
- Full Name: Toni Kroos
- Date of Birth: 4 January 1990
- Height: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
- Position(s): Midfielder
Toni Kroos has had a highly successful career at Real Madrid since joining the club in 2014. Signed from Bayern Munich, he quickly established himself as a key player in the Real Madrid midfield. Kroos became an integral part of the team under various managers, contributing to Real Madrid’s success in both domestic and international competitions. His exceptional passing ability, vision, and composure on the ball have made him one of the best midfielders of his generation.
In his debut season with Real Madrid, Kroos played a pivotal role in the team’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League, where they won the title by defeating Atletico Madrid in the final. His precise distribution and ability to control the tempo of the game were vital to Real Madrid’s success. Over the years, Kroos continued to excel, playing a significant role in Real Madrid’s dominance in Europe. He won three consecutive Champions League titles with the club from 2016 to 2018, becoming an integral part of the team’s midfield trio alongside Luka Modric and Casemiro.
In addition to his success in Europe, Kroos helped Real Madrid secure multiple La Liga titles during his tenure. He played a key role in the team’s 2016-2017 and 2019-2020 league triumphs. His ability to dictate play from midfield and contribute with assists and goals made him a vital cog in the Real Madrid machine.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2014– | 255 | 20 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga | 2016–17, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| Supercopa de España | 2017, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Champions League | 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2014, 2017, 2022 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018 |
17. Gareth Bale
- Full Name: Gareth Frank Bale
- Date of Birth: 16 July 1989
- Height: 6 ft 1 in (1.86 m)
- Position(s): Winger
Gareth Bale had a notable career at Real Madrid, marked by both triumphs and challenges. He joined the club in the summer of 2013 from Tottenham Hotspur for a then-world record transfer fee.
Bale made an immediate impact in his first season at Real Madrid. He showcased his incredible speed, agility, and goal-scoring ability, becoming an integral part of the team. Bale’s most memorable moment came in the 2014 Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, where he scored a stunning solo goal, sprinting past several defenders before slotting the ball into the net. This goal helped Real Madrid lift the trophy.
In the same season, Bale played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s success in the UEFA Champions League. He scored crucial goals in the latter stages of the tournament, including a decisive goal in the final against Atletico Madrid, which helped Real Madrid secure their tenth Champions League title.
Over the next few seasons, Bale continued to be an important player for Real Madrid. He formed a formidable attacking trio, known as the “BBC,” alongside Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo. The trio played a vital role in Real Madrid’s success, helping the team win consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018. However, injuries became a recurring issue for Bale during his time at Real Madrid, which impacted his consistency and playing time. Despite this, he still managed to contribute with important goals and assists when fit. One of his most memorable moments came in the 2018 Champions League final against Liverpool, where he scored a spectacular bicycle kick goal, earning widespread praise.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2013–2022 | 176 | 81 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga | 2016–17, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| Copa del Rey | 2013–14 |
| Supercopa de España | 2017 |
| UEFA Champions League | 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2014, 2016,2017 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 2014, 2017, and 2018 |
16. Pepe
- Full Name: Kepler Laveran de Lima Ferreira
- Date of Birth: 26 February 1983
- Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
- Position(s): Centre back
Pepe had a successful and eventful career at Real Madrid, establishing himself as one of the best center-backs in the world during his time at the club. He joined Real Madrid in 2007 from FC Porto and became an important figure in the team’s defense. Pepe was known for his physicality, toughness, and aggressive style of play. He was a commanding presence in defense and had the ability to dominate aerial duels and win tackles. His partnership with Sergio Ramos in the heart of Real Madrid’s defense became one of the most formidable in European football.
During his tenure at Real Madrid, Pepe played a crucial role in the club’s success. He helped the team win numerous domestic and international titles. In the 2011-2012 season, Real Madrid won the La Liga title, breaking Barcelona’s dominance, with Pepe playing a significant role in the defense.
Pepe’s most notable achievement with Real Madrid came in the UEFA Champions League. He was a key figure in the team’s success in the tournament, helping Real Madrid win the prestigious trophy three times consecutively from 2016 to 2018. His defensive skills, leadership, and ability to organize the backline were instrumental in those triumphs.
However, Pepe’s time at Real Madrid was not without controversy. He occasionally found himself involved in heated incidents and received criticism for his aggressive playing style. Some of his actions on the pitch, including altercations with opponents, sparked debates and led to disciplinary actions. Despite these incidents, Pepe remained an important player for Real Madrid and a favorite among the fans.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2017 | 176 | 81 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga | 2007–08, 2011–12, 2016–17 |
| Copa del Rey | 2010–11, 2013–14 |
| Supercopa de España | 2008, 2012 |
| UEFA Champions League | 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2014, 2016 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 2014, 2016 |
15. Luis Figo
- Full Name: Luís Filipe Madeira Caeiro Figo
- Date of Birth: 4 November 1972
- Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
- Position(s): Winger
Luis Figo’s career at Real Madrid was both memorable and significant. He joined the club in 2000 from FC Barcelona in a highly controversial transfer that sparked an intense rivalry between the two clubs. Figo quickly established himself as a key player for Real Madrid, showcasing his exceptional skills, versatility, and playmaking ability. He played as a winger and was known for his blistering pace, precise crosses, and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. In his first season at Real Madrid, Figo helped the team win the UEFA Champions League, ending a long drought for the club in Europe’s premier club competition. He was instrumental in Real Madrid’s attacking prowess, forming a deadly partnership with other star players like Raúl and Zinedine Zidane.
During his time at Real Madrid, Figo consistently performed at a high level and was a major influence in the team’s success. He played a crucial role in helping the club win two La Liga titles in the 2000-2001 and 2002-2003 seasons. Figo’s contributions on the pitch, including his goal-scoring ability and assists, were instrumental in Real Madrid’s domestic achievements.
After five seasons with Real Madrid, Figo left the club in 2005 to join Inter Milan. His departure marked the end of a successful chapter in his career, where he left a lasting impact on Real Madrid and its fans.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2000–2005 | 164 | 38 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga | 2000–01, 2002–03 |
| Supercopa de España | 2001, 2003 |
| UEFA Champions League | 2001–02 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2002 |
| Intercontinental Cup | 2002 |
14. Paco Gento
- Full Name: Francisco Gento López
- Date of Birth: 21 October 1933
- Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
- Position(s): Outside left
Francisco Gento, also known as Paco, was an incredibly successful player for Real Madrid. He wore the number 11 jersey and became one of the club’s most decorated players.
Over the course of three decades, Gento played in eight European finals, winning the championship six times. He holds the record for the most European Cups won by a player, with a total of six titles.
Gento’s achievements go beyond European success. He also won an impressive 12 League titles with Real Madrid during the 1950s and 1960s. His collection of trophies is remarkable, and he would easily be considered one of the best players in history based on his numerous titles.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1953–1971 | 427 | 127 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga (12) | 1953–54, 1954–55, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69 |
| Copa del Generalísimo | 1961–62, 1969–70 |
| European Cup (6) | 1955–56, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1958–59, 1959–60, 1965–66 |
| Intercontinental Cup | 1960 |
13. Santiago Bernabéu
- Full Name: Santiago Bernabéu de Yeste
- Date of Birth: 8 June 1895
- Position(s): Forward
Santiago Bernabéu is a true legend of Real Madrid, known for his contributions both as a player and as the club’s president. He was a strong and talented striker, renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring abilities. His impact on the club was so significant that the Real Madrid stadium was named after him.
Bernabéu joined Real Madrid at the young age of 14 in 1910 and made his debut for the first team at 17. He remained with the club until his retirement in 1927. During his playing career, he won the central regional championship nine times and the King’s Cup once in 1917. It’s important to note that the national league was established a year after his retirement in 1928. Nevertheless, he is still regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of Real Madrid.
However, Bernabéu is perhaps most renowned for his role as the club’s president from 1943 to 1978. It was under his leadership that Real Madrid achieved immense success. During his presidency, the club won the Spanish championship 16 times, the Copa del Rey 6 times, and notably the Champions League 6 times, including the first 5 editions of the competition between 1956 and 1960. His vision and guidance played a pivotal role in shaping Real Madrid into the successful club it is today.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1921–1926 | 22 | 20 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 1953–54, 1954–55, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69, 1971–72, 1974–75, 1975–76, 1977–78 |
| FIBA European Champions Cup: | 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1973–74, 1977–78 |
| Copa del Generalísimo: | 1946, 1947, 1961–62, 1969–70, 1973–74, 1974–75 |
| Copa Eva Duarte: 1947 | 1951, 1952, 1954, 1956, 1957, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1977 |
| European Cup: | 1955–56, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1958–59, 1959–60, 1965–66 |
12. Raymond Kopa
- Full Name: Raymond Kopaszewski
- Date of Birth: 13 October 1931
- Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
- Position(s): Attacking midfielder
In 1957, Raymond Kopa made history by becoming the first French player to win the European Championship with Real Madrid. They defeated Fiorentina with a score of 2-0 in the final. Interestingly, Kopa had just received the Ballon d’Or award before the European final.
This victory was the beginning of a remarkable achievement for Kopa, as he went on to win three consecutive European titles during his brief but highly successful three-year tenure at Real Madrid.
Known as the “Little Napoleon” by Marca, Kopa formed an excellent partnership with Ferenc Puskás in the team’s attack. Despite playing as a midfielder, he managed to score an impressive 24 goals in 79 games for Real Madrid. His contributions to the team were significant both in terms of goals and overall performance.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1956–1959 | 79 | 24 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 1956–57, 1957–58 |
| European Cup: | 1956–57, 1957–58, 1958–59 |
| Latin Cup: | 1957 |
11. Luka Modric
- Full Name: Luka Modrić
- Date of Birth: 9 September 1985
- Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
- Position(s): Midfielder
Luka Modric, a Ballon d’Or recipient in 2018, achieved a remarkable feat that year by winning the award and also securing back-to-back European titles with Real Madrid.
Since joining Real Madrid in 2012, the talented Croatian midfielder has been a vital creative force for the team. He has earned a reputation as one of the best players in his position worldwide.
Interestingly, Modric’s trophy cabinet includes only one La Liga title, which may come as a surprise. However, his incredible record of four Champions League victories more than compensates for that. His ability to control the tempo of the game, retain possession, and distribute play in a dynamic and vertical manner has made him a highly regarded player in the Spanish capital. Modric will be remembered as a great contributor to Real Madrid’s success.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2012– | 323 | 26 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 2016–17, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| Copa del Rey: | 2013–14, 2022–23 |
| Supercopa de España: | 2012, 2017, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017, 2022 |
| FIFA Club World Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022 |
10. Iker Casillas
- Full Name: Iker Casillas Fernández
- Date of Birth: 20 May 1981
- Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in)
- Position(s): Goalkeeper
Iker Casillas is an iconic goalkeeper who has left a lasting impact on both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. Known for his decisive saves and ability to provide reassurance to his defense, Casillas has been a key figure throughout his career.
During his time at Real Madrid from 1999 to 2015, Casillas amassed an impressive record. With 242 games without conceding a goal out of a total of 816 matches played, he holds the second-best clean sheets ratio in history. He won the Spanish championship five times, lifted the Copa del Rey trophy twice, and secured three Champions League titles with the club. Casillas started his career at Real Madrid and later concluded it with FC Porto in Portugal, where he also achieved success by winning the national championship and cup.
Casillas’s heroics extend to the Spanish national team as well. He played a crucial role in Spain’s triumphs at Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012. With 167 international matches under his belt, he is the second-most capped player for Spain, trailing only Sergio Ramos. Casillas has rightfully earned his place among the top 10 greatest goalkeepers of all time.
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 2000–01, 2002–03, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2011–12 |
| Copa del Rey: | 2010–11, 2013–14 |
| Supercopa de España: | 2001, 2003, 2008, 2012 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 1999–2000, 2001–02, 2013–14 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2002, 2014 |
| FIFA Club World Cup: | 2014 |
| Intercontinental Cup: | 1998, 2002 |
9. Sergio Ramos
- Full Name: Sergio Ramos García
- Date of Birth: 30 March 1986
- Height: 1.84 m (6 ft 0 in)
- Position(s): Defender
Sergio Ramos has been a record-breaker and has left an indelible mark on the game. Not only has he undergone positional changes on the field, transitioning from a right back to a center back, but he has also emerged as an unwavering leader since joining Real Madrid from Sevilla FC in 2005.
The charismatic Andalusian defender has displayed remarkable consistency by scoring at least one goal in every season he has spent at the Santiago Bernabéu. In total, he has contributed over 100 goals throughout his time at the club. In terms of titles, Ramos boasts an impressive record of five league titles and four Champions League triumphs. One of his most memorable goals was the one he scored in the 93rd minute during the Champions League final.
Ramos is a natural-born winner, and his passion for his team is evident. On a less glamorous note, he recently set a new record for receiving the most cards in the history of the Spanish national team. Considering the considerable number of games he has played as a central defender, it becomes challenging to avoid receiving numerous bookings. However, negative records do not take into account such nuances.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2005–2021 | 469 | 72 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 2006–07, 2007–08, 2011–12, 2016–17, 2019–20 |
| Copa del Rey: | 2010–11, 2013–14 |
| Supercopa de España: | 2008, 2012, 2017, 2019–20 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017 |
| FIFA Club World Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018 |
8. Raul
- Full Name: Raúl González Blanco
- Date of Birth: 27 June 1977
- Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
- Position(s): Forward
Raúl, a Spanish striker and a legendary figure in Real Madrid’s history, achieved greatness through his exceptional game vision and remarkable goal-scoring ability. Despite not being physically imposing, Raúl displayed agility, speed, and an incredible finishing touch, which allowed him to score numerous goals throughout his career.
Raúl made his debut for Real Madrid in 1994 and remained with the club for 16 seasons. He holds the record for the most appearances in Real Madrid’s history, having played 741 games. He is also the second-highest goal scorer for the club, with 323 goals. During his time at Real Madrid, Raúl won several major trophies, including six La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, and three Champions League titles. He is also among the top 10 highest scorers in the history of the Champions League.
Apart from his achievements with Real Madrid, Raúl also represented the Spanish national team. He participated in three World Cups and two European Championships, although he did not win any of these tournaments despite delivering impressive performances.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1994–2010 | 550 | 228 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 1994–95, 1996–97, 2000–01, 2002–03, 2006–07, 2007–08 |
| Supercopa de España: | 1997, 2001, 2003, 2008 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 1997–98, 1999–2000, 2001–02 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2002 |
| Intercontinental Cup: | 1998, 2002 |
7. Paco Gento
- Full Name: Francisco Gento López
- Date of Birth: 21 October 1933
- Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
- Position(s): Outside left
Francisco Gento, commonly known as Paco Gento, is a Spanish football player and an iconic figure in Real Madrid’s history. He played as a left winger and was known for his exceptional speed, technical skills, and precise passing, especially when delivering accurate crosses. Gento is regarded as one of the greatest wingers in football history.
After a single season at Racing Santander, Gento quickly joined Real Madrid in 1953 and remained with the club until his retirement in 1970. He played an impressive 606 games for the team and scored 176 goals. Gento achieved remarkable success with Real Madrid, winning the Spanish championship 12 times and the Copa del Rey twice. His most notable record is winning the most Champions League titles, securing 6 titles during his time at Real Madrid.
Gento also represented the Spanish national team from 1955 to 1969. He played 43 international matches and scored 5 goals. Although he participated in two World Cups, he did not take part in Spain’s victory in the 1964 European Championship. Due to his accomplishments, Gento ranks fifth in our list of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1953–1971 | 427 | 127 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga (12): | 1953–54, 1954–55, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1963–64, 1964–65, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1968–69 |
| Copa del Generalísimo: | 1961–62, 1969–70 |
| European Cup (6): | 1955–56, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1958–59, 1959–60, 1965–66 |
| Intercontinental Cup: | 1960 |
6. Zinedine Zidane
- Full Name: Zinedine Yazid Zidane
- Date of Birth: 23 June 1972
- Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
- Position(s): Attacking midfielder
Zinédine Zidane is a legendary figure for both Real Madrid and the French national team. He is a highly skilled attacking midfielder known for his exceptional technical abilities and incredible game vision. Despite not being known for his speed or physical power, Zidane’s agility, precise passing, and playmaking skills have made him one of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history. He is also recognized as one of the best attacking midfielders of all time.
Zidane began his professional career at AS Cannes before moving on to Girondins de Bordeaux and Juventus. In 2001, he joined Real Madrid, where he spent five seasons. During his time at the club, Zidane won La Liga in 2003, as well as the Champions League and the Intercontinental Cup in 2002. After retiring as a player, he returned to Real Madrid as a coach and has already won La Liga twice and the Champions League three times in that role.
In addition to his success at Real Madrid, Zidane is revered in France for his contributions to the national team. He earned 108 caps for France and scored 31 goals. Zidane was a key player in France’s victorious 1998 World Cup campaign and also played a crucial role in their triumph at Euro 2000. Despite France’s loss in the final of the 2006 World Cup, Zidane delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest French players in history.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2001–2006 | 155 | 37 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 2002–03 |
| Supercopa de España: | 2001, 2003 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 2001–02 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2002 |
| Intercontinental Cup: | 2002 |
5. Karim Benzema
- Full Name: Karim Mostafa Benzema
- Date of Birth: 19 December 1987
- Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
- Position(s): Striker
Karim Benzema, a French striker and international player, has been a key member of Real Madrid since 2009. He is an incredibly versatile player who excels in the false number 9 role. Benzema’s exceptional ball control and precise passing enable him to create numerous opportunities for his teammates. Additionally, he is a prolific goal scorer, equally dangerous with both his shots and heading ability, often finding the back of the net in crucial moments.
After his training at Lyon and winning titles with the club, Benzema made his move to Real Madrid in 2009. Although he faced some initial challenges, the French player quickly established himself as an indispensable figure in the Madrid team. Over 13 seasons with the club, he has scored 339 goals and provided 163 assists, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history. Benzema has achieved great success with Real Madrid, including winning four La Liga titles and four Champions League titles.
However, Benzema’s international career has been more mixed, largely due to off-field issues that led to his exclusion from the national team between 2015 and 2021. Nonetheless, he reached the quarter-finals of the Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup with the French team. His only international title so far is the 2021 Nations League.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2009– | 423 | 226 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 2011–12, 2016–17, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| Copa del Rey: | 2010–11, 2013–14 |
| Supercopa de España: | 2012, 2017, 2019–20, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Champions League: | 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22 |
| UEFA Super Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017, 2022 |
| FIFA Club World Cup: | 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018 |
4. Hugo Sanchez
- Full Name: Hugo Sánchez Márquez
- Date of Birth: 11 July 1958
- Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
- Position(s): Forward
Hugo Sánchez, a Mexican striker, left a lasting mark on Real Madrid and held the record for most goals in La Liga for many years. Known for his flair and showmanship, Sánchez was not just a goal scorer; he was a true entertainer.
His distinctive ‘afro’ hairstyle caught attention, but it was his acrobatic volleys and lively goal celebrations that endeared him to the Merengue fans. After scoring, he would often execute jumps, somersaults, and acrobatic moves on the field, captivating the spectators.
Sánchez is considered one of the most prolific players to have graced the Bernabéu stadium. He scored an impressive 208 goals in 282 appearances, contributing to the team’s five Spanish league titles. Regarded as the greatest Mexican player in history, he left an indelible mark on Real Madrid during his time there, symbolizing an entire era of success for the club.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Year | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1985–1992 | 207 | 164 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
| La Liga: | 1985–86, 1986–87, 1987–88, 1988–89, 1989–90 |
| Supercopa de España: | 1988, 1989, 1990 |
| Copa del Rey: | 1988–89 |
| UEFA Cup: | 1985–86 |
3. Ferenc Puskas
- Birth Name: Ferenc Purczeld
- Date of Birth: 1 April 1927
- Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
- Position(s): Forward, attacking midfielder
Ferenc Puskás, a Hungarian footballer, was a remarkable goal-scorer for Real Madrid. He possessed exceptional agility, technical skills, and most notably, an incredible ability to finish goals. Throughout his career, he maintained an astonishing ratio of scoring nearly one goal per game, a feat rarely seen in the history of the sport. Puskás is recognized as one of the greatest forwards of all time.
Having been trained at Budapest Honvéd, Puskás achieved success in the Hungarian league, winning the championship title four times. In 1958, he joined Real Madrid, where he remained until the end of his playing career. During his time with the club, he secured four La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies. In total, Puskás scored an impressive 242 goals in 262 games for the Madridistas.
Puskás is equally celebrated for his contributions to the Hungarian national team. He notably led Hungary to the final of the 1954 World Cup, where they narrowly lost to West Germany despite being considered favorites. Throughout his international career, Puskás scored 84 goals in 85 matches. Not only is he regarded as the greatest Hungarian player in history, but he is also recognized as one of the all-time greats in the history of Real Madrid.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Competition | Goals | Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| La Liga | 156 | 180 |
| European Cup | 41 | 52 |
| Copa del Generalísimo | 35 | 43 |
| Total | 242 | 262 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
Here is a complete list of Ferenc Puskás’s achievements at Real Madrid:
- 5 La Liga titles (1959–60, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1964–65)
- 1 Copa del Generalísimo (1962)
- 1 European Footballer of the Year award (1960)
- 4 Pichichi Trophy awards (1960, 1961, 1963, 1964)
- 1 European Golden Shoe Award (1960)
- 1 IFFHS World’s Best Men’s Player award (1960)
- 1 FIFA 100 award (2004)
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
- Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro
- Date of Birth: 5 February 1985
- Height: 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in)
- Position(s): Forward
Cristiano Ronaldo made a grand entrance at Real Madrid as the most expensive signing in football history at the time. There were high expectations from day one, and the Portuguese star did not disappoint. With his impressive goal-scoring prowess, he has secured himself a place as one of the greatest players in the history of the club. In his homeland, he is widely regarded as the best Portuguese player ever.
During his time at Real Madrid, Ronaldo has achieved remarkable feats, winning five Ballon d’Or awards during Lionel Messi’s dominant era. He has led his team to two La Liga titles and four Champions League victories. His goal-scoring numbers are truly astonishing, with an incredible 451 goals in just 438 games played. These records place him among the elite few forwards in the history of the sport.
Although Ronaldo may not have won the most titles with the club, he holds the record for the most goals scored in both La Liga and the Champions League for Real Madrid. His exceptional goal-scoring ability has been instrumental in securing numerous titles that adorn the trophy cabinets of the Santiago Bernabéu.
Furthermore, Ronaldo ranks among the top goal-scorers in the history of football and continues to add to his impressive statistics, now representing Manchester United once again.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Competition | Goals | Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| La Liga | 311 | 292 |
| UEFA Champions League | 105 | 101 |
| Copa Del Rey | 22 | 37 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2 | 2 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 6 | 6 |
| Total | 451 | 438 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
Here is a complete list of Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements at Real Madrid:
- 4 UEFA Champions League titles (2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18)
- 2 La Liga titles (2011–12, 2016–17)
- 2 Copa del Rey titles (2010–11, 2013–14)
- 3 FIFA Club World Cups (2014, 2016, 2017)
- 2 UEFA Super Cups (2014, 2017)
- 4 Ballon d’Or awards (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
- 1 FIFA World Player of the Year award (2008)
- 1 FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball Award (2014)
- 1 UEFA Champions League Top Scorer award (2013–14)
- 2 Pichichi Trophy awards (2010–11, 2013–14)
- 1 European Golden Shoe Award (2013–14)
- 1 IFFHS World’s Best Men’s Player Award (2013)
- 1 Onze d’Or award (2013)
- 1 Golden Foot Award (2014)
1. Alfredo Di Stéfano, The best player in the history of Real Madrid
- Full Name: Alfredo Stéfano Di Stéfano Laulhé
- Date of Birth: 4 July 1926
- Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
- Position(s): Forward, attacking midfielder
To determine the best player in a prestigious club like Real Madrid, it’s important to consider the opinions of other renowned players such as Pelé, Eusébio, and Bobby Charlton, who spoke highly of him during his time.
”People argue between Pelé or Maradona. Di Stéfano is the best, much more complete” Pele
”The most complete footballer in the history of the game” Eusebio
”He was simply the smartest football player I’ve ever seen. If I had to choose one player, out of all of them, to save my life, he would be the one.” Bobby Charlton
Alfredo Di Stéfano, an Argentine striker, was a major star for Real Madrid in the 1950s and 1960s. He was an exceptionally versatile player who changed the way the striker position was played in that era. Besides his impressive dribbling and scoring skills, he was also an excellent playmaker and even contributed to the team’s defense. His impact on Real Madrid and football, in general, makes him one of the greatest players in the history of the club.
Di Stéfano began his career in Argentina with River Plate before spending four seasons at Colombian club Milionarios FC. He won championships with both clubs before joining Real Madrid in 1953. With Madrid, he achieved the incredible feat of winning the Spanish championship eight times, including five consecutive Champions League titles from 1956 to 1960.
Although Di Stéfano played only six games for the Argentine national team, he still managed to win the South American championship in 1947. After becoming a Spanish citizen, he decided to represent the Spanish national team starting in 1957. Alfredo Di Stéfano is widely regarded as one of the greatest Argentine players of all time.
Goals at Real Madrid:
| Competition | Goals | Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| La Liga | 216 | 282 |
| European Cup | 49 | 58 |
| Copa del Rey | 37 | 60 |
| Intercontinental Cup | 2 | 2 |
| Total | 308 | 396 |
Achievements at Real Madrid:
Here is a complete list of Alfredo Di Stéfano’s achievements at Real Madrid:
- 8 La Liga titles (1954, 1955, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1964)
- 5 European Cups (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
- 1 Copa del Rey (1962)
- 2 Intercontinental Cups (1960, 1966)
- 2 Ballon d’Or awards (1957, 1959)
- 5 Pichichi Trophy awards (1954, 1955, 1957, 1958, 1959)
- 1 European Golden Shoe Award (1957)
- 1 IFFHS World’s Best Men’s Player award (1957)
- 1 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball Award (1958)
- 1 FIFA 100 award (2004)
