In association football, an assist is a pivotal moment where a player sets up a teammate to score a goal. It typically involves a pass or cross that directly leads to a goal. According to Opta, an assist is defined as “the final touch from a teammate, which leads to the recipient of the ball scoring a goal.” Even if a pass is deflected by an opponent, the assist is awarded if the ball continues towards the scorer. However, no assist is given for own goals, direct free kicks, direct corner goals, or penalty goals, unless the penalty taker deliberately passes the ball for another player to score.
The following players have become masters of this craft, often showcasing both wisdom and unselfishness. Their vision, intelligence, and playmaking ability have led to them being some of the most prolific assist providers in football’s modern era.
10. Dries Mertens: 186 Assists
Dries Mertens, with his versatility and flair, has been a key playmaker for Napoli and Belgium. His ability to adapt to various attacking roles and deliver crucial assists has been a hallmark of his career. Mertens’ creative vision has consistently set up his teammates for success.
9. Mesut Özil: 186 Assists
Mesut Özil is renowned for his precision and elegance in the final third. His time at Real Madrid and Arsenal highlighted his knack for delivering pinpoint passes and unlocking defences. Özil’s playmaking skills have made him one of the era’s top creators.
8. Neymar: 206 Assists
Neymar’s dazzling skills and creativity are evident in his assist tally. His time with Barcelona, PSG, and Brazil has showcased his ability to deliver magical passes that often lead to spectacular goals. Neymar’s flair makes his assists as memorable as his goals.
7. Luis Suárez: 225 Assists
Luis Suárez, primarily known for his goal-scoring, has also been an outstanding creator. His vision and unselfish play, especially during his stint at Barcelona, allowed him to provide numerous crucial assists. Suárez’s ability to link up with teammates has been a key part of his success.
6. Ángel Di María: 241 Assists
Ángel Di María has been a dynamic force for teams like Real Madrid, PSG, and Benfica. His precise crosses and through balls, often delivered with his powerful left foot, have made him a constant threat in the final third. Di María’s assists have been crucial in creating goal-scoring opportunities.
5. Thomas Müller: 247 Assists
Thomas Müller, known for his exceptional football intelligence, has been a key playmaker for Bayern Munich and Germany. His unique ability to find space and deliver important passes, often referred to as the “Raumdeuter,” highlights his understanding of the game and his role as a creator.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo: 254 Assists
While Cristiano Ronaldo is celebrated for his prolific goal-scoring, his assist record is also impressive. His ability to provide accurate crosses and clever passes, especially during his time at Real Madrid, has been a vital part of his career. Ronaldo’s contributions in creating goals complement his scoring achievements.
3. Dušan Tadić: 257 Assists
Dušan Tadić has been a creative powerhouse for Ajax and Serbia. His technical skills and ability to deliver decisive passes have been instrumental in setting up goals. Tadić’s contributions have been crucial in enhancing his teams’ attacking prowess.
2. Kevin De Bruyne: 258 Assists
Kevin De Bruyne has been a standout creator for Manchester City and Belgium. His exceptional vision and precise passing from various positions have made him one of the most effective midfielders of his generation. De Bruyne’s ability to break down defences with his passing has been key to City’s success.
1. Lionel Messi: 375 Assists
Lionel Messi leads the list with 375 assists. His extraordinary dribbling, vision, and playmaking abilities have been a cornerstone of his career with Barcelona, PSG, and Argentina. Messi’s assists are a testament to his genius, highlighting his role in not just scoring goals but also elevating those around him.
