Playmakers are often considered the heartbeat of a football team. They transition defense into attack, control the tempo of the game, and create numerous goalscoring opportunities. Their influence on the pitch is marked by their passing, vision, grace, elegance, technique, balance, flair, poise, ball control, and ability to score goals.
Unlike attacking midfielders, who typically play in the No. 10 position, playmakers can operate from various areas on the pitch. There are deep-lying playmakers, wide playmakers, “false number 9” playmakers, and those with a “free role.” Many also play as central midfielders, balancing between offensive duties and build-up play. They often need the support of a defensive midfielder to cover their defensive responsibilities.
Selecting the best playmakers in football history is challenging due to the plethora of talent over the years. Here, we present 15 of the greatest playmakers who have graced the game.
- Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona, known for his vision, passing, ball control, and dribbling, was an advanced playmaker in the classic number 10 position. His low center of gravity allowed him to maneuver better than most players. Maradona’s creative abilities and goal-scoring prowess, combined with his free-kick specialization, made him one of the greatest dribblers in football history. He led Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986, becoming a national hero.
- Pelé
Primarily a striker, Pelé was also an exceptional playmaker, using his vision and passing to create opportunities. His dribbling skills and intelligence on the field set him apart. Pelé’s ability to link up with teammates and provide assists, alongside his work ethic and teamwork, made him one of the best playmakers in football history.
- Lionel Messi
While known for his goalscoring, Lionel Messi’s vision, passing range, and ability to create goalscoring opportunities make him a remarkable playmaker. His dribbling runs, especially during counterattacks, and his development into one of the best passers in football history highlight his playmaking skills. Messi holds the record for the most assists in La Liga and top 3 in Football history.
- Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane was a world-class playmaker known for his vision, passing, ball control, and technique. Playing as a classic number 10, Zidane’s elegance on the ball, dribbling skills, and creativity were unmatched. His ability to use both feet and execute powerful shots and volleys made him one of the greatest playmakers ever.
- Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff was a revolutionary figure in football, both as a player and manager. As a playmaker, he was known for his technical ability, speed, dribbling, and vision. Cruyff’s awareness of his teammates’ positions and his timely passes made him an ultimate orchestrator on the field.
- Alfredo Di Stefano
Alfredo Di Stefano was a versatile, skillful, and prolific goalscorer with great stamina and vision. His ability to play almost anywhere on the pitch and use feints to bypass defenders made him a top playmaker. Di Stefano’s contributions to Real Madrid’s dominance in the 1950s and 1960s are legendary.
- Michel Platini
Michel Platini, a three-time Ballon d’Or winner, was a quick, elegant, and intelligent playmaker. His ball control, technical ability, dribbling skills, creativity, and vision were exceptional. Platini was also a prolific goalscorer, known for his free-kicks and penalty kicks.
- Andres Iniesta
Andres Iniesta’s balance, ball control, agility, composure, and flair made him one of the best playmakers in football. Known for his passing and dribbling, Iniesta was crucial in big games for both club and country, making vital contributions in major finals.
- Andrea Pirlo
Andrea Pirlo, a deep-lying playmaker, was renowned for his vision, ball control, technique, and passing. His composure, balance, and creativity, combined with his free-kick prowess, made him one of the greatest midfielders in football history.
- Cesc Fabregas
Cesc Fabregas, known for his exceptional passing abilities, became one of the youngest captains in football history. His playmaking skills, vision, and ability to set up goals made him a key figure in every team he played for. Fabregas excelled in influencing the pace of the game.
- Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho’s flair, creativity, and technical brilliance made him a standout playmaker. His ability to entertain while being highly effective on the pitch endeared him to fans worldwide. Ronaldinho’s dribbling, vision, and passing were unmatched during his prime.
- Xavi Hernandez
Xavi Hernandez was the engine of Barcelona and Spain’s midfield, known for his precise passing and ability to control the game’s tempo. His vision, intelligence, and quick decision-making made him one of the greatest playmakers ever.
- Luka Modric
Luka Modric’s vision, technique, and passing have made him a crucial playmaker for both Real Madrid and Croatia. His ability to dictate the pace of the game and provide key assists has earned him a place among the best.
- Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne’s vision, creativity, and range of passing have made him one of the best playmakers in modern football. His ability to create goalscoring opportunities from midfield and his versatility on the pitch set him apart.
- Michael Laudrup
Michael Laudrup was known for his elegance, vision, and passing ability. His dribbling skills and creativity allowed him to unlock defenses with ease, making him one of the most gifted playmakers in football history.
Honorable Mentions:
- Zico
- Dennis Bergkamp
- Socrates
- Lothar Matthaus
- Juan Román Riquelme
- Mesut Ozil
