Throughout the illustrious history of football, there have been players whose impact transcends the mere achievements on the field.

These players have not only garnered respect for their exceptional skills and performances but have also profoundly influenced the global perception and spread of football.

Lykkers！Here are ten of the most influential football players, whose achievements and legacies continue to resonate today.

First and foremost is Pelé, widely celebrated as the "King of Football." His performances during the 1950s and 1960s were nothing short of extraordinary.

As a legendary striker for the Brazilian national team, Pelé won the World Cup three times (1958, 1962, and 1970), setting numerous goal-scoring records.

His remarkable skills and leadership on the pitch not only guided Brazil to World Cup victories but also significantly elevated football's global stature.

Diego Maradona is another football icon renowned for his extraordinary skills and creative flair. In the 1986 World Cup, he scored what is often referred to as the "Goal of the Century." This goal showcased his remarkable control and ability to navigate through defenders with ease.

Additionally, Maradona's controversial "Hand of God" goal remains one of the most debated moments in football history. His influence extends beyond his accolades; his contributions to Argentine football and his impactful tenure at Napoli are enduring legacies.

Zinédine Zidane stands as a symbol of modern football excellence. His exceptional ball control and tactical vision made him a world-class midfielder.

Zidane led the French national team to victory in the 1998 World Cup, scoring twice in the final, and he later scored the decisive goal in the 2002 Champions League final. His elegant and efficient style of play garnered him immense respect from both fans and peers alike.

Franz Beckenbauer, often referred to as the "Emperor of Football," made his mark as both a player and a coach. He led the German national team to World Cup glory in 1974 and later, as a manager, guided Germany to another World Cup win in 1990.

Beckenbauer's innovative approach to football tactics, particularly his fluid defensive play, left a lasting impact on modern football strategies.

Alfredo Di Stéfano is celebrated as one of the greatest attacking midfielders of the 20th century. During his illustrious career at Real Madrid, he was instrumental in the club's dominance in European football, helping them secure five consecutive European Cups (now the Champions League). Di Stéfano's versatility and leadership on the pitch cemented his status as a football legend.

Ferenc Puskás, a towering figure in Hungarian football, was renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring prowess and comprehensive skill set. In the 1950s, Puskás played a crucial role in making the Hungarian national team one of the most formidable in the world.

His prolific career at Real Madrid further established him as an immortal football icon, thanks to his impressive goal-scoring records and performances.

Sir Bobby Charlton is an iconic figure in English football, celebrated for his pivotal role in England's only World Cup victory in 1966. Charlton's technical skill, stamina, and ability to score crucial goals made him a dual legend of both Manchester United and English football. His contributions to the sport have made an enduring impact on its history.

Lionel Messi is universally recognized as one of the greatest players of the contemporary era. His performances for Barcelona and the Argentine national team have consistently set new records.

With seven Ballon d'Or awards and numerous honors with Barcelona, Messi's exceptional skills, creativity, and goal-scoring ability have made him a central figure in contemporary football.

Cristiano Ronaldo, another modern football legend, is known for his remarkable physical fitness and prolific goal-scoring abilities. His successful stints with various clubs and the Portuguese national team have earned him multiple Ballon d'Or awards and a plethora of other accolades. Ronaldo's career is filled with outstanding moments that have redefined modern football standards.

Michel Platini is celebrated for his superb organizational skills and creative midfield play. Despite his career being marred by corruption scandals, his contributions to the French national team and Juventus during the 1980s remain significant. Platini's technical prowess and leadership were influential in shaping football during his time.

These players have not only created countless memorable moments on the field but have also played crucial roles in the evolution and popularization of football. Their influence transcends national boundaries and eras, ensuring that their names are etched into the annals of football history as eternal legends.