Over the past decade, we have witnessed some of the greatest football players to ever grace the pitch. From magical magicians to unstoppable goal-machines, the 2010s have seen a legendary lineup of exceptional talent. Let’s take a closer look at the best football players of the decade, who have etched their names into the annals of football history.
1. Lionel Messi: The diminutive Argentine has been nothing short of sensational throughout the decade. Messi’s incredible dribbling ability, spectacular goals, and remarkable consistency make him a true maestro of the game. With numerous individual accolades, countless records shattered, and a remarkable partnership with Barcelona, Messi has cemented his place as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese sensation has been the perfect rival to Messi, pushing each other to new heights year after year. Ronaldo’s athleticism, blistering pace, and incredible goal-scoring ability have mesmerized fans around the world. With his exceptional skills and an insatiable hunger for success, Ronaldo has won titles with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and now Juventus.
3. Neymar Jr: The Brazilian wonderkid has developed into one of the most skillful and exciting players of the decade. Known for his electrifying dribbling, creative playmaking, and goal-scoring prowess, Neymar has left defenders bamboozled and fans in awe. Although marred by occasional controversy, Neymar’s impact on the field cannot be denied.
4. Andrés Iniesta: The midfield maestro, often overshadowed by his more flamboyant teammates at Barcelona, was the heartbeat of the team during their golden era. Iniesta’s elegant playing style, impeccable vision, and ability to control the tempo of a game made him an invaluable asset. His role in Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning team and his contribution to Barcelona’s success cannot be overstated.
5. Sergio Ramos: The charismatic and tenacious Spanish defender has been the embodiment of resilience and leadership. Combining his defensive skills with the ability to score crucial goals, Ramos has become an essential figure for both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. With an impressive collection of trophies, including four Champions League titles, he has proven his worth time and again.
6. Robert Lewandowski: The Polish striker evolved into a goal-scoring machine of unparalleled proportions. Lewandowski’s ability to find the back of the net with precision and regularity is second to none. He has become the epitome of a complete forward, terrorizing defenses with his aerial ability, clinical finishing, and clever positioning.
7. Kevin De Bruyne: The Belgian playmaker has been the engine that drives Manchester City’s success. With his exceptional vision, pinpoint passing, and deadly shooting ability, De Bruyne is a constant threat to any opposition. His technical skills and footballing intelligence have seen him rack up numerous assists and goals, earning him recognition as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
8. Virgil van Dijk: The Dutch center-back has transformed Liverpool’s defensive line into an impenetrable fortress. Van Dijk’s unparalleled defensive skills, calm composure, and leadership qualities have played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s recent successes, including their Champions League triumph. His influence is undeniable, and he is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world.
9. Manuel Neuer: The German goalkeeper has redefined the role of the modern-day goalkeeper. Known for his exceptional shot-stopping ability and sweeping behind the defense, Neuer has set new standards for goalkeeping excellence. He has been a key figure in Bayern Munich’s domestic and international triumphs, showcasing incredible reflexes and distribution skills.
10. Luka Modrić: The Croatian midfield maestro, known for his elegant control and sublime passing, enjoyed considerable success over the past decade. Modrić’s performances, both for Real Madrid and the national team, propelled him to win the Ballon d’Or in 2018. His ability to dictate games and create opportunities makes him one of the most talented midfielders of his generation.
The best football players of the decade have not only dazzled us with their exceptional skills but also left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. From showcasing their brilliance on the world stage to dominating club competitions, these players have set the bar high for the generations to come. As we bid farewell to the 2010s, we are grateful to have witnessed the rise of these legendary players, who have undoubtedly secured a place in football history.