Arguments about who deserves the title of football’s greatest are endless — and rarely settled. The spotlight usually falls on legendary forwards like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pelé, and Diego Maradona, but the game’s evolution owes just as much to iconic defenders and goalkeepers whose impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. Using FourFourTwo’s list of the 100 greatest players as a starting point, this piece assembles an all-time starting XI that balances sheer talent with lasting influence on the sport. Each player’s legacy speaks for itself, regardless of the era they played in — from Paolo Maldini’s disciplined elegance to Messi’s unmatched magic. This curated line-up offers a perspective that blends accolades, individual quality, and historical importance.
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Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
A pioneer of the modern goalkeeper role, Manuel Neuer redefined the position with his aggressive sweeping and precision distribution. As Bayern Munich’s undisputed number one for over a decade, Neuer’s impact transcended domestic dominance. His two Champions League titles, twelve Bundesliga trophies, and a World Cup triumph in 2014 firmly established him as one of the most influential stoppers in football history.
Full-Backs: Carlos Alberto & Paolo Maldini
Carlos Alberto, famed for captaining Brazil’s iconic 1970 squad, is remembered for his thunderous goal in the World Cup final — but his consistent performances as a right-back were just as remarkable. On the left, Paolo Maldini’s versatility earns him a place. Though naturally a center-back, Maldini’s early career on the flank showcased his tactical awareness and technical excellence. With five European Cups and seven Serie A titles, he remains a defensive icon.
Center-Backs: Bobby Moore & Franco Baresi
England’s only World Cup-winning captain, Bobby Moore, was the embodiment of calm under pressure. His clean tackling and composure made him the cornerstone of England’s 1966 triumph. Alongside him, AC Milan’s Franco Baresi is perhaps the ultimate one-club defender — a leader known for his reading of the game and resilience. Baresi’s ability to command a backline rivaled that of any modern-day defensive general.
Midfield Masters: Lothar Matthäus & Andrés Iniesta
Germany’s Lothar Matthäus blended power and intelligence with his box-to-box dominance. The only outfield player to participate in five World Cups, his career peaked with West Germany’s 1990 title win. Andrés Iniesta, meanwhile, was the quiet genius behind Spain and Barcelona’s golden eras. His vision, balance, and timing not only won trophies but defined the rhythm of an era.
Attacking Greats: Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo
No legendary lineup is complete without Lionel Messi. With a record number of Ballon d’Or wins, a World Cup title, and a central role in Barcelona’s golden era, he’s not just a prolific scorer — he’s the creative heartbeat that defined a generation of football. Diego Maradona adds unpredictability and charisma, celebrated for his 1986 World Cup heroics and passionate leadership. Cristiano Ronaldo brings power and precision, having conquered England, Spain, and Italy while rewriting the record books with his goal-scoring feats.
Striker: Pelé
At the heart of the attack stands Pelé — a player who transcended the sport. With three World Cups to his name and over 1,000 career goals, he not only represented Brazilian football at its peak but also paved the way for global recognition of the sport. His influence endures as strongly today as it did during his playing days.
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Conclusion
Assembling the greatest football XI is no easy task — for every inclusion, there are worthy names left out. But this selection, built on the pillars of success, influence, and skill, reflects a balance that few would dispute.
From Pelé to Messi, and Maldini to Maradona, each figure helped shape the sport and inspired generations of fans. Whether watching a vintage match or a modern-day final, echoes of these legends remain.
Football continues to evolve, but the legacies of these eleven giants will endure for decades to come.
