Which player deserves to sit at the GOAT table with Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi? 
To me Pele, Maradona, Cruyff and Zidane are the original GOAT based on historical impact, skills, and accolades.
Pele is often regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history. He won three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970) with Brazil and scored over 1,200 goals throughout his career, making him a global icon of the sport. His ability to captivate audiences and influence the game is unparalleled, earning him the nickname âThe Kingâ of football.
Maradona is celebrated for his extraordinary dribbling ability and creativity on the field. He led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup, where he delivered some of the most memorable performances in football history. His infamous âHand of Godâ goal and the âGoal of the Centuryâ against England are etched in football lore. Maradonaâs impact transcends statistics; he is revered as a cultural icon.
Cruyff was not only a phenomenal player but also a revolutionary thinker in football tactics. He was instrumental in developing âTotal Football,â which emphasized fluid movement and positional interchange among players. His legacy includes three Ballon dâOr awards and significant contributions as both a player and coach, making him a pivotal figure in football history.
Zidane is remembered for his elegance on the ball and his decisive performances in crucial matches, including leading France to victory in the 1998 World Cup and winning the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid as both a player and manager. His technical skills and ability to perform under pressure solidify his status among the all-time greats.
Ronaldo Nazario, often referred to as R9, was known for his explosive speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring prowess. He won two World Cups with Brazil (1994, 2002) and is remembered for his remarkable comeback from injuries that could have ended his career prematurely. His unique style of play and scoring ability make him a strong candidate for the GOAT table.
While Pele and Diego Maradona are frequently mentioned alongside Messi and Ronaldo due to their historical significance and influence on the game, Johan Cruyffâs tactical innovations and Zinedine Zidaneâs exceptional skill set also warrant consideration.
As the era of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi approaches its conclusion, several players are emerging as potential candidates to join the GOAT table.
Here are some of the most notable names. As they continue to grow and achieve, they may very well secure their places at the GOAT table alongside the legends of the game.
Mbappe has already established himself as one of the top talents in football. At just 24 years old, he has impressive achievements, including a World Cup win with France in 2018 and multiple domestic titles with PSG. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability position him as a strong contender for future GOAT discussions.
Haaland, currently playing for Manchester City, is another player frequently mentioned in the GOAT conversation. At 22 years old, he has already broken numerous scoring records and is known for his remarkable physicality and finishing skills. His potential to dominate European football for years makes him a key figure to watch.
Jude Bellingham is a rising star who has garnered attention for his maturity and skill at a young age. Playing for Real Madrid, he has quickly become one of the most promising midfielders in the world. His performances in both club and international competitions suggest he could be a future contender for the GOAT table.
If weâre talking about players who truly deserve to sit at the âGOAT tableâ alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, my personal pick would be PelĂ© and Diego Maradonaâtwo legends who defined football in their eras.
However, if we focus only on the modern era, Zinedine Zidane would be my choice. His elegance, vision, and ability to shine on the biggest stagesâespecially in the World Cup and Champions Leagueâset him apart. Unlike Ronaldo and Messi, who dominated over a long period, Zidaneâs peak wasnât as prolonged, but in terms of sheer brilliance and impact, he belongs in the conversation.
Honorable mention: Ronaldinhoâbecause for a brief time, he was the most magical player on the planet.
Of course Pele and Maradona
