Premier League’s Best Player Ever: Who Tops the List?
Since the beginning in 1992, the Premier League has attracted top talent. Picking the greatest player ever is a big discussion, looking at their wins, records, and skills. This piece will reveal the top 10 Premier League players ever. We’ll look at how they’ve changed the game and won big.
The Premier League has seen legends rise1.Dennis Bergkamp wowed with his smooth moves, while1Alan Shearer smashed records with his goals. These are just a few examples. Over time, the game’s bar has only gotten higher, making it tough to name the ultimate player.
The ‘best ever’ question has always fascinated fans and pros2. For example2,Ryan Giggs won a whopping 13 Premier League titles. Then we have3Cristiano Ronaldo, who stunned the world. Both have strong arguments for the top spot. But true greatness is not just about stats. It’s how you lift your team and inspire people.
Key Takeaways
- The Premier League has witnessed the rise of some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
- 2Ryan Giggs holds the record for the most Premier League medals, with 13 titles won.
- 1Alan Shearer is the Premier League’s all-time leading goal scorer, with 260 goals.
- 3Cristiano Ronaldo’s global impact and individual brilliance have made a strong case for his inclusion as one of the best Premier League players ever.
- The debate surrounding the Premier League’s best player ever is a highly contested one, with factors such as trophies, statistics, and impact on the game all playing a crucial role.
Son Heung-min: Tottenham’s Talisman
A Prolific Goalscorer and Premier League Golden Boot Winner
Son Heung-min plays a key role in Tottenham’s achievements. He’s one of the best goal-scorers in the Premier League4. With 120 goals in 303 matches for Tottenham4, he’s vital to their attack.
In the 2021-22 season, Son won the Premier League Golden Boot with 23 goals4. This title showed he’s a top player in the league. He’s also done well for South Korea, scoring 48 goals in 127 games4.
Son is known for more than just his goals. He was the first from Asia to play in a UEFA Champions League final4. He’s also the best Asian scorer in both the Premier League and Champions League4. His hard work led him to beat Cha Bum-kun’s record for most European goals by a Korean4.
As Tottenham’s captain, Son is very important. He’s the third player in the club’s history to reach 300 Premier League matches4. His great play has helped Tottenham succeed lately. Fans love how he motivates the team and thrills them. He’s become an iconic player for Tottenham45.
| Player | Premier League Goals | Premier League Assists | Premier League Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Son Heung-min | 1176 | 606 | 3034 |
“Son Heung-min is the heart and soul of Tottenham Hotspur. His dedication, work ethic, and consistent performances have made him an integral part of the team’s success.” – Harry Kane, Tottenham Hotspur captain
Off the field, Son is a cultural icon and role model for Asian players5. He’s won four Best Footballer in Asia awards5. His success boosts Asian football globally. As a result, Tottenham aims its marketing at Korean fans due to Son’s popularity there5.
South Korea has recognized Son with the Cheongnyong Medal for sports excellence5. He inspires young players in Asia and worldwide. His talent and dedication show what hard work can achieve645.
David Ginola: The Beautiful Man
David Ginola stands out as the most beautiful player on this list7. He won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award in 19998. This shows how much his skills impressed others in the Premier League while at Tottenham Hotspur8.
Across over ten years, Ginola played in 503 league games7, scoring 81 goals7. His playing style and flair earned him many fans. Even though he didn’t score the most, people loved watching him play.
“David Ginola was voted Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association in 1999, and the same year, he was chosen as the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year.”8
In the Premier League, Ginola scored some amazing goals. Matches against Barnsley, Manchester United, and Manchester City in 1998-99 were especially memorable8. These goals showed his exceptional talent and why he’s considered one of the most exciting players in England.
Ginola played 17 times for France7. However, he didn’t shine as brightly on the international stage as he did in clubs. Even so, his remarkable influence on the Premier League will always be remembered. He is recognized as one of the most stylish players ever in the game978.
Ian Wright: Arsenal’s Goalscoring Legend
Ian Wright is known as one of the best Premier League goalscorers ever. He is Arsenal’s second top-scorer, with 128 goals in 221 matches1011.
He was a strong striker with great aim. His ability to score easily made him a big problem for the other teams. In one season, he scored 29 goals, finishing as the league’s second top scorer10.
A Natural Finisher and Premier League’s Second-Highest Goalscorer
Wright wasn’t only good at Arsenal. He scored an amazing 239 goals in his whole career. While at Crystal Palace, he got 90 goals in 225 games10.
At Arsenal, he was important for their success in 1993, winning two domestic cups. He also topped Arsenal’s goal-scoring list, beating a long-time record with a hat-trick against Bolton Wanderers101112.
After spending almost 15 years in the English game, Wright was still a star. He played for England 33 times and scored 9 goals. His ability to score and help his team won him a place in Premier League history10.
Today, Wright shares his love and knowledge for football as a pundit. This makes him even more respected in the Premier League’s history101112.
Edwin van der Sar: The Unbeatable Goalkeeper
In the world of Premier League goalkeepers, Edwin van der Sar is a true giant13. He boasts a long and successful career, especially shining at Manchester United. There, he played a key role in their victories.
Van der Sar started his journey in goal at Ajax when he was just 20. He played 312 games for the team across nine seasons, winning many titles. These included four Eredivisie titles, the Champions League, and several other cups.
Yet, his biggest achievements were with Manchester United13. He donned their jersey for six years, featuring in 266 matches. During this time, he secured wins in the Premier League, the Champions League, and more. In one season, he even set a record by not letting a league goal past him for over 1,300 minutes.
He didn’t just succeed in clubs. Van der Sar also represented his country, the Netherlands, for 13 years. There, he played 130 matches. After hanging up his gloves, he moved into the management side of football, furthering his impact on the sport.
Van der Sar’s career showcases his exceptional skills and hard work13. Known for his calmness and strong play, he’s recognized worldwide as a top goalkeeper in the Premier League. His legacy will inspire future generations of keepers.
“Edwin van der Sar is one of the best goalkeepers in Premier League history. His ability to command his area, make crucial saves, and distribute the ball with precision made him a standout player for Manchester United and the Netherlands.” – Premier League Analyst14
His talent didn’t go unnoticed by the football world. His fellow professionals voted him as the 3rd best goalkeeper in Premier League history15. His skills, consistency, and the many trophies he won prove his place among the all-time greats of English football.
Matt Le Tissier: Southampton’s Midfield Maestro
Matt Le Tissier was a standout in the Premier League before he delved into conspiracy theories and started pushing CBD gummies. He is remembered as one of the league’s most talented players. During his time at Southampton, he scored 100 goals, helping keep the club at the top level16.
In 1993, Le Tissier’s two-goal performance against Newcastle United highlighted his extraordinary skills17. He spent all 16 years of his professional career with Southampton. This showed his deep loyalty to the club17. Southampton’s success during his era included three top-10 finishes and some close calls with relegation18. Once, they barely avoided relegation by goal difference, and three times, they edged out the drop by just a single point18.
Even with his immense talent, Le Tissier only won eight caps for England. Many were surprised by this. Yet, he stayed faithful to Southampton throughout his career17.
Le Tissier’s last goal for Southampton in a match against Arsenal was a game-winner. It was in the final match at The Dell, a thrilling 3-2 victory. This moment solidified his place as a beloved Southampton figure17.
Despite adopting some controversial viewpoints later on, Le Tissier is recognized as one of the top midfielders in Premier League history. His loyalty and talent are undisputed17.
| Midfielder | Goals Scored in Premier League |
|---|---|
| Frank Lampard | 177 |
| Steven Gerrard | 120 |
| Paul Scholes | 107 |
| Matt Le Tissier | 100 |
| Gary Speed | 80 |
| Kevin Nolan | 69 |
The table illustrates that Matt Le Tissier is the fifth highest-scoring midfielder in Premier League history. His 100 goals showcase his exceptional skill and goal-scoring ability16.
“Matt Le Tissier was one of the most gifted footballers the Premier League had ever seen.”
Matt Le Tissier supports VAR in soccer. He believes it improves fairness and reduces potential referee mistakes18. As the Premier League moves ahead, players like Le Tissier serve as historical pillars, demonstrating the league’s past brilliance161718.
Teddy Sheringham: The Evergreen Forward
Teddy Sheringham kicked off his top-level football journey in 1988 and kept playing until he was 40 in 200719. This shows how long his career was and how well he adapted. He became the top scorer in the first Premier League season, netting 21 goals for Tottenham Hotspur and one for Nottingham Forest19. Manchester United got him for £3.5 million in June 199719. There, he showed his deep-lying forward skills, earning a special place in Premier League history.
Oldest Player to Win PFA Player of the Year
At 35, Sheringham won the 2000-01 PFA Player of the Year award, making him the oldest to achieve this honor19. Both the Football Writers’ Association and the Professional Footballers’ Association noticed his standout season. Playing until he was 42, Sheringham proved he could still excel, showing his talent and flexibility through his long career19.
His abilities weren’t just on the field19. In 2004, Sheringham showed he had skills at the poker table, coming in fifth in a big tournament in Portugal. He won €93,121, revealing his diverse talents and love for competition.
Sheringham’s not always the first in talks about Premier League legends, but his impact and longevity can’t be denied20. Even with stars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Frank Lampard shining in their thirties, Sheringham’s PFA award at 35 is a sign of his unique talent and adaptability20. His journey in the Premier League for almost 20 years is a model for those who hope to extend their playing careers1921.
Jamie Vardy: The Non-League Sensation
The story of Jamie Vardy’s rise from non-league to top English football is extraordinary22. His journey shows how determination, skill, and hard work paid off.
Vardy started big with 25 goals in his first season for FC Halifax Town in the Conference Premier22
. Leicester City noticed him and signed him for a record fee of £1 million in 201222. He then played 405 games for Leicester, scoring 174 times22.
In 2015-16, Vardy scored in 11 straight Premier League matches, breaking a record22. He won top awards that season, thanks to his 25 goals and exceptional performance22. He became known for his aggressive play and accuracy in front of the goal.
Vardy has achieved a lot, including the Premier League Golden Boot in 2019-2022. The following year, he played in every FA Cup round, making history22.
Jamie Vardy’s rise from non-league to Premier League star is inspiring23. His success shows hard work can turn dreams into reality, inspiring many along the way.
“Vardy’s relentless pressing and harassing of opponents earned him praise for his intimidating style from teammates and observers.”23
As Vardy keeps winning and starring, he reminds us that with determination, anything is possible. His story is proof that big dreams can come true with effort and a little luck.
Cesc Fabregas: The Midfield Magician
Cesc Fabregas is known as one of the top players in the Premier League. He played 518 club games, scoring 81 goals. For Spain, he played 110 matches and scored 15 goals, winning titles like the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
He started with Arsenal at 16, making him their youngest player ever. At Arsenal, he became their youngest league goal scorer. In the 2006-2007 season, he got 13 league assists, the second most that season.
After Arsenal, he went to Barcelona and then returned to the Premier League with Chelsea. At Chelsea, he set a record with 18 assists in one season. He also won two Premier League titles with Chelsea.
| Player | Premier League Appearances |
|---|---|
| Cesc Fabregas | 35024 |
| David Seaman | 34424 |
| Ashley Cole | 38424 |
| John Terry | 49224 |
| Rio Ferdinand | 50324 |
| Kyle Walker | 38924 |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 23624 |
| Patrick Vieira | 30724 |
| Steven Gerrard | 50424 |
| Kevin De Bruyne | 25424 |
| David Silva | 30924 |
| Thierry Henry | 25824 |
| Didier Drogba | 25424 |
Gareth Barry leads in midfield appearances with 653, followed by James Milner and Ryan Giggs. Steven Gerrard has the most games despite not winning the Premier League. Frank Lampard tops the midfielders with 3 titles.
Fabregas has 350 appearances with two titles. He’s known for his work in both attacking and creating plays. With 33 goals and 54 assists, he’s seen as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.
“Cesc Fabregas was a true midfield maestro, able to dictate the tempo of the game with his exceptional vision and passing ability. He was the heartbeat of some of the best teams in the Premier League era.”
Fabregas’ impact on the Premier League is clear. He’s remembered as one of the greatest midfielders in its history252426.
Sol Campbell: England’s Defensive Rock
Sol Campbell is considered one of England’s top center-backs. He shined at both Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. Making a total of 197 appearances for Arsenal in five years, he helped win two Premier League titles and three FA Cups27. Campbell also led Portsmouth to an FA Cup victory, their first since 195027.
His strong defense was a crucial part of Arsenal’s unbeaten 2003-04 season. Campbell and his team only let in 26 goals that year. He was a standout, earning praise as a “super rock” by his manager28.
In his national team, England, Campbell stood as a solid player, with 73 caps to his name27. His move from Tottenham to Arsenal in 2001 shook the football world. Crossing over to his former team’s rival was a big deal in the Premier League history28.
Campbell left a lasting mark on the sport. Known for his strength, smart play, and leadership, he is celebrated as one of the Premier League’s finest center-backs29. He was not only a key player but also a key leader, becoming an icon in English football29.
Sadio Mane: The Unstoppable Force
In 2016, Liverpool signed Sadio Mane from Southampton for £36 million. Many wondered if this was too much money for the Senegalese winger30. Mane proved his worth over consecutive seasons. He became one of the Premier League’s top players, showing great skill and consistency30.
Mane’s record is outstanding. He has scored 90 goals in the Premier League. He earned the league’s Golden Boot and made the PFA Team of the Year four times31. In the 2021-22 season, Mane stood out with 22 goals, tying for the league’s top scorer. Since joining Liverpool, he has scored a total of 59 goals31.
His ability to convert shots into goals is unmatched, with a rate of 25.9%. This outperforms stars like Aubameyang and Messi. When it comes to scoring goals per game, he is also ahead of Neymar31. Mane’s skill in scoring from headers is notable. Last season, he scored more headed goals than Ronaldo31.
Mane has had a massive impact on Liverpool’s success. He played a crucial role in winning their first Premier League title in 30 years. His skill in creating chances and scoring decisive goals has made him a vital part of the team31. Many consider Mane’s signing as one of the most significant in Liverpool’s recent history, praising his consistent excellence31.
Golden Boot Winner and Premier League Champion
In the 2018-19 season, Mane, Salah, and Aubameyang shared the Golden Boot. Each scored 22 goals. Mane was pivotal in helping Liverpool secure their first league title in 30 years during the 2019-20 season31.
Sadio Mane’s journey from a high-priced transfer to elite status in the Premier League is a story of hard work and determination. He has become a key player in Liverpool’s recent victories. Mane continues to excel, proving his value on the field303132.
best player in premier league history
Deciding the best player in Premier League history is tough since many great players have been in the league. They have won awards, helped their teams win, and scored a lot of goals. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Alan Shearer, and Wayne Rooney are top contenders for this title.
Eric Cantona is a standout, leading Manchester United to many victories. Paul Scholes is also a favorite for his incredible play in midfield. He has won a lot of titles and scored many goals. Then, there’s John Terry, known for his strong defense for Chelsea.
Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard are unforgettable in the league. Lampard did a lot of scoring and assisting, while Gerrard was crucial for Liverpool. Then, we must mention Ryan Giggs. He played many games, scoring and assisting consistently, which shows how great he was.
When it comes to scorers, Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer are on everyone’s list. Rooney and Shearer scored a ton of goals and won a lot of titles. Let’s not forget Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry, who amazed fans with their skills. Ronaldo has won the Champions League many times, and Henry is known for his impressive goal-scoring streak and Golden Boots.
The argument over the best player in Premier League history keeps going. Fans and experts love discussing it. The Premier League has seen many amazing players, proving its incredible talent over the years.
| Player | Premier League Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | Scored over 800 career goals, won the Champions League four times, and has claimed five Ballon d’Or awards3. |
| Thierry Henry | Finished with 175 Premier League goals and registered 74 assists, scoring 20+ goals for five consecutive seasons and claiming four Golden Boots3. |
| Alan Shearer | Netted 260 Premier League goals and won the Golden Boot three times3. |
| Wayne Rooney | Scored 208 goals, made 103 assists, and won five Premier League titles3. |
| Ryan Giggs | Played 632 Premier League matches, scored 109 goals, and had 162 assists3. |
This data shows how amazing these greatest Premier League players have been. They achieved a lot personally and helped their teams win many titles. Their influence and legacy in the Premier League are clear and significant.
Conclusion
The Premier League started in 199233 and has seen many great players. 11,646 games have been played with 256,212 players starting. There were also 53,737 substitute appearances. This league has showcased some of the best footballers in history33.
Mohamed Salah stands out as one of its top scorers, hitting over 100 goals in four seasons since joining Liverpool34. David Silva, a midfield icon, has won the league four times and is amongst the best in assists. The Premier League has been blessed with many talents like these35. It’s not just about scoring goals either. Players like Sol Campbell have defended with all their skill. And forwards like Teddy Sheringham have shown incredible attack strategies. This mix highlights the great variety of players the league has seen33.
The argument over the best Premier League player will go on. Fans will keep comparing their heroes33. The ones listed in this article have impressed us with their skills and passion. They are truly memorable33. But, as the Premier League grows, so will its legends. This will keep the debates about the greatest alive and interesting among fans everywhere33.
FAQ
What factors are considered when determining the best Premier League player of all time?
To judge the best Premier League player, we look at their awards, trophies, goals scored, and impact. These aspects help decide the greatest ever.
Who are some of the top contenders for the title of “best Premier League player ever”?
Top contenders include Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Alan Shearer, and Wayne Rooney. They have all shown exceptional skills, making their mark in the league.
Why is Son Heung-min considered one of the best Premier League players?
Son Heung-min stands out because he won a Golden Boot and Goal of the Season. He is now the captain at Tottenham, showing he’s among the league’s top talents.
What made David Ginola such an exceptional player in the Premier League?
Ginola won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and scored amazing goals. He left fans awestruck with his performances against top teams.
Why is Ian Wright considered one of the best natural goalscorers in Premier League history?
Scoring 113 Premier League goals, Ian Wright’s talent shines. He proved to be one of the best at putting the ball in the net.
What records did Edwin van der Sar hold in the Premier League?
Van der Sar set a world record for not conceding a goal for 1311 minutes. This achievement came during his time at Manchester United, where he won the league four times.
How was Matt Le Tissier’s impact on Southampton in the Premier League?
Matt Le Tissier scored 100 goals and kept Southampton among the top clubs. An unforgettable moment was his game-changing performance against Newcastle in 1993.
What made Teddy Sheringham’s career in the Premier League unique?
Sheringham’s 19-year career in top-flight football shows his durability. He was a standout even at 40, winning the PFA Player of the Year at 35.
What was remarkable about Jamie Vardy’s rise to the Premier League?
Vardy went from non-league to a Premier League winner, scoring 136 goals. His achievements eclipse those of many other notable players in English football.
How did Cesc Fabregas establish himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League?
Fabregas was the top midfielder before moving to Barcelona. His 2009/10 season, with 15 goals, stood out. He later dominated again, securing 18 assists in a season with Chelsea.
Why is Sol Campbell considered one of the greatest centre-backs England has ever produced?
Campbell’s success at Spurs and Arsenal, with numerous awards, shows his quality. He played a crucial role in two Premier League victories.
What made Sadio Mane’s impact at Liverpool so significant?
Mane’s 90 goals, Golden Boot, and four PFA team selections made a big impact. He also assisted Liverpool in winning their first league title in 30 years.
