The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) has revealed its highly anticipated list of the 10 greatest footballers of all time, stirring up fresh debate in the footballing world.

In the latest ranking, Cristiano Ronaldo, often celebrated for his goal-scoring prowess and longevity, was named the fourth-best footballer ever.

But who took the crown as the greatest of all time?

Lionel Messi tops the List as the ultimate GOAT

Taking the number one spot is Lionel Messi, the Argentine maestro who has redefined the modern game with his remarkable consistency, creativity, and footballing intelligence, GiveMeSport reports.

With eight Ballon d’Or awards, a FIFA World Cup title, four Champions League trophies, and countless club and international records to his name, Messi’s influence on football is undeniable.

The IFFHS has named Lionel Messi as the greatest player of all time 🐐⚽️ pic.twitter.com/2kb1NNNo78

— OneFootball (@OneFootball) May 18, 2025

IFFHS’s decision to rank the Inter Miami captain as the best ever reinforces the belief that his complete style of play, leadership, and success across different leagues put him ahead of the rest.

Why is Ronaldo ranked number four?

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has often shared the GOAT spotlight with Messi, finds himself in fourth place, behind footballing icons Pelé (2nd) and Diego Maradona (3rd).

For many, this ranking may seem low considering Ronaldo’s extraordinary achievements. With over 850 career goals, five Ballon d’Or awards, major trophies in England, Spain, and Italy, and international glory with Portugal, his résumé speaks for itself.

However, IFFHS appears to have weighed factors like individual flair, cultural impact, and creative influence in its ranking, areas where some argue Messi, Maradona, and Pelé have the edge.

The rest of the top 10

The rest of the list includes other unforgettable names in football history. Johan Cruyff (5th) is praised for his role in shaping modern football tactics.

🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Lionel Messi has officially been recognized as the Greatest Player of All Time by the IFFHS.

(International Federation of Football History & Statistics). pic.twitter.com/LhY8t3fTD5

— The Touchline | Football Coverage (@TouchlineX) May 18, 2025

Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazário (6th) dazzled fans with his explosive style. Zidane (7th), Beckenbauer (8th), Di Stéfano (9th), and Ronaldinho (10th) all round out a star-studded list.

IFFHS top 10 football GOATS

1. Lionel Messi

2. Pele

3. Diego Maradona

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

5. Johan Cruyff

6. Ronaldo de Lima

7. Zinedine Zidane

8. Franz Beckenbauer

9. Alfredo Di Stefano

10. Ronaldinho

Top absentees from the IFFHS list

Interestingly, no goalkeeper made the top 10, and Franz Beckenbauer is the only defender included, which may raise eyebrows among fans of Paolo Maldini or Lev Yashin.

Notably absent are football legends such as Ferenc Puskás, Gerd Müller, and Michel Platini, whose contributions to the game are often widely celebrated.