Modric 7th, Ramos 4th, Ronaldo…the ranking of the 15 best players in Real Madrid’s history!

From Alfredo Di Stéfano to Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid has always had exceptional players. The club with 15 Champions League stars remains a benchmark in the world and has earned the reputation of being the greatest team in the world. To reflect on this legacy, our editors have compiled a list of the 15 greatest players in Real Madrid’s history.

Real Madrid is much more than just a football club. It is an institution that embodies excellence and a constant quest for greatness. Since it was founded in 1902 by Julián Palacios and the brothers Juan and Carlos Padrós, Real Madrid has attracted the greatest talents of every era. The club managed by Florentino Perez has built up an unrivalled record in world football over the years.  Madrid have lifted 15 Champions Leagues, 36 La Liga titles and a host of national and international trophies. They are the absolute benchmark in the world of football.

To wear the immaculate white shirt is to enter a history fraught with success and pressure. The club is a living legend, where every player is judged not only on his performances, but also on his impact on history. It’s easy to understand the constant pressure on the shoulders of Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s new galactic recruit.

Alfredo Di Stéfano, Cristiano Ronaldo, Raúl González and Paco Gento all left their mark on the club’s history. But the history of Real Madrid is not set in stone. Every generation brings its heroes, and in recent years Cristiano Ronaldo’s generation has redefined what it means to triumph on the European stage, or imposed its hegemony.

Real Madrid’s best ever players, the Cr7 generation and the golden age

Between 2009 and 2018, Real Madrid experienced what many consider to be their modern golden age. The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009 sent the club into a new dimension. With 450 goals scored in 438 games, the Portuguese was not only Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer, he was also its attacking engine and competitive soul.

During that time, the Casa Blanca club have won 4 Champions Leagues, including a historic feat: three consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018 under a certain Zinedine Zidane, who is also one of the best players in Real Madrid’s history. In any case, Cristiano Ronaldo has been at the heart of these victories, not least thanks to his 17 Champions League goals in the 2013-2014 campaign, a record that is still unmatched. But this success would not have been possible without the support of other exceptional players like Luka Modric.  The midfield metronome has been one of the main architects of this domination. Winner of the 2018 Ballon d’Or, the Croatian shone with his tactical intelligence, his vision and his ability to control games at the most tense moments.

Then there is Karim Benzema, often in Ronaldo’s shadow. The French striker has shown incredible versatility and selflessness. After CR7’s departure, he assumed the role of attacking leader and led Real Madrid to another Champions League title in 2022, winning the Ballon d’Or the same year. And let’s not forget Sergio Ramos, the man of great moments. A charismatic defender, he scored crucial goals, notably in the 2014 Champions League final in Lisbon. His leadership and mental strength galvanised the team.

Toni Kroos is also a master of precision. Having arrived in 2014, he has brought unrivalled control to Real Madrd’s midfield. In particular, the German has formed a legendary trio with Modric and Casemiro. Not to mention Marcelo, one of the most successful players in the club’s history, with 25 trophies to his name. The Brazilian full-back has revolutionised his position with his creativity, dribbling and ability to shine in big games. This generation has not just won titles, it has set new standards of performance and competitiveness. Their impact on the history of Real Madrid is comparable to that of the pioneers of the 50s and 60s.

Vinicius Jr, Mbappé, the new generation of talent

While these legends have left their mark on the club’s history, Real Madrid never stops reinventing itself. Today, a new generation of talented players is carrying the club’s hopes forward. They are Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé. Vinicius Jr, recently recognised as a native of Cameroon, is already writing his legend. At just 24, he has two Champions League titles to his name. In each of those finals, he has scored decisive goals and proved his ability to shine in the most crucial moments. His speed, creativity and attacking flair make him a serious candidate to one day join the pantheon of Madrid legends if, of course, he extends his adventure at Madrid and turns down a move to Saudi Arabia.

Alongside Vinicius, Rodrygo is gradually establishing himself as a key player. His maturity and ability to score important goals, particularly in the 2021-2022 Champions League, suggest he has a bright future ahead of him. Jude Bellingham, who arrived in 2023, is already a leader in midfield. At just 21, he combines power, vision and the ability to score in decisive moments. Many see him as the heir to great midfielders like Modric and Kroos. Finally, Kylian Mbappé, a recent arrival, embodies Real Madrid’s future ambitions. Although it will take time for him to adapt, his talent is universally recognised. With the right coaching, he could become a pillar of this team. Real Madrid has always managed to combine heritage and innovation. 

 Here are the top players in Real Madrid’s history: