Football is a demanding sport that tests every part of a player’s body — from brutal tackles to relentless fixtures, injuries are just part of the game. But once in a while, we witness players who seem almost immune to injuries. Whether it’s down to their smart playing style, disciplined routines, or just good fortune, these players have built reputations for being ever-present.
Whether through elite conditioning, smart movement, or a bit of divine favor, these stars have maintained remarkable consistency throughout their careers. As of 2025, they’ve avoided the surgeon’s table, lengthy rehab rooms, and dreaded injury lay-offs — a near-miracle in today’s high-intensity football.
Let’s count down the top 12 players whose careers remain untouched by serious injury — and who continue to set the standard for durability in modern football.
12. Declan Rice
Declan Rice has quietly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent and durable midfielders. Since his early days at West Ham and now at Arsenal, Rice has remained a near-constant presence on the pitch.
In the 2023/24 season, he played 50+ matches across all competitions and suffered no major injuries. His strong physique, elite stamina, and intelligent positional play help him stay out of risky challenges. Rice’s professionalism in training, coupled with his tactical awareness, reduces the wear and tear most midfielders endure.
At only 26, he’s already a leader at Arsenal — and one of the most physically reliable players in England.
11. Iñaki Williams
No list like this is complete without Iñaki Williams. The Athletic Bilbao forward is famous for his mind-blowing record of 251 consecutive La Liga appearances — a feat unheard of in today’s injury-prone football world.
While he eventually had to sit out in 2023 due to a rare muscle injury, he bounced back quickly and continues to lead Bilbao’s front line. Since turning professional, Williams has suffered very few injuries, thanks to his athleticism, work ethic, and conditioning.
10. Julián Álvarez
Now at Atlético Madrid, the Argentine striker is as reliable as they come. Despite his intense playing style filled with sprints and pressing, Álvarez has yet to suffer any major injuries in his career. Since his professional debut, he’s missed only a handful of games — mostly due to illness.
Álvarez’s smart movement and disciplined training habits help him avoid unnecessary contact and fatigue. He’s become a coach’s dream: talented, tireless, and always available.
9. Antoine Griezmann
At 34, Griezmann continues to play nearly every game for Atlético Madrid. His career has been built on consistency — not just in goals, but in availability. While he had an ankle injury in 2024 that sidelined him for a few weeks, he has avoided long-term injuries throughout his career.
Griezmann’s game intelligence, adaptability, and clean lifestyle have kept him going even in the physically demanding Spanish league.
8. Sergio Busquets
A veteran of the game, Busquets, now at Inter Miami, has maintained remarkable durability throughout his career. Even in his Barcelona days, he missed very few games despite years of top-level football.
His secret? Smart positioning and avoiding physical duels. Busquets doesn’t rely on pace or strength — he controls the game with his brain, minimizing injury risks.
7. Bruno Fernandes
Since arriving at Manchester United in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has been one of the most reliable players in the Premier League. Whether the club is in form or struggling, Bruno is almost always on the pitch.
He rarely picks up injuries, and when he does — like the minor knee issue in May 2024 — he returns quickly. His discipline in training and match preparation plays a big role in his fitness.
6. Mohamed Salah
Liverpool’s Egyptian king, Mohamed Salah, is known not just for goals but for his consistency. He’s had a few hamstring and ankle issues in recent years, but nothing long-term.
Salah’s elite fitness, combined with a healthy lifestyle and smart playing style, helps him avoid serious injuries. Even at 33, he remains one of the most feared attackers in Europe.
5. Jules Koundé
The French defender has become a rock in Barcelona’s defense. Between late 2023 and early 2025, he played 104 consecutive matches for club and country — an incredible streak.
Koundé’s discipline in recovery and fitness, including extra running sessions and early gym work, has helped him avoid serious lay-offs despite the physical toll of modern football.
4. Achraf Hakimi
Hakimi is one of the fastest players in football, and with that speed comes injury risk — yet, he’s managed to stay remarkably fit. Since a hamstring injury in 2023, he’s played regularly for PSG and Morocco.
He blends explosive runs with careful load management, allowing him to stay available even when the schedule gets intense.
3. Thomas Müller
The 35-year-old German icon is rarely injured — a testament to his smart, non-contact style. Müller’s last significant injury came in 2017. Since then, it’s been minor knocks at most.
His football IQ and preparation off the pitch have helped him remain a dependable figure at Bayern Munich and beyond.
2. Joško Gvardiol
The Croatian defender has adapted quickly to Premier League life at Manchester City. Aside from a short ankle injury in early 2024, Gvardiol has been highly reliable.
At just 23, he’s already known for resilience and recovery — qualities that City’s backline relies on in big matches.
1. Luka Modrić
Even at 39, Luka Modrić continues to defy age and injuries. His calm, elegant playing style has helped him avoid major injuries during his legendary Real Madrid career.
As he begins a new chapter at AC Milan, Modrić remains one of the most respected and enduring midfielders in the world.Final Thoughts
