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Failing to win an international trophy will always be considered a flaw in the career of football legends, regardless of their achievements at club level. That is why Lionel Messi's triumph in the Copa America this summer meant the world to him.
Before leading Argentina to success in the continental tournament, the playmaker suffered several near misses on multiple occasions. That includes defeats in the 2015 and 2016 Copa America finals and the title match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. For many years, critics cited his international failures as a shortcoming. However, Messi finally put them in their place this summer by inspiring his nation to glory in Brazil.
While Messi now has silverware in both club and international football, that is not the case with many bonafide legends in the game. On that note, here's a look at five such players:
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#5 Dennis Bergkamp
When it comes to rating the most technically adept players in football history, not many come close to Dennis Bergkamp. The Dutchman was a huge force to be reckoned with during his days with Arsenal, capturing the hearts of fans with his eye-catching displays.
Bergkamp was one of the key components of Arsenal's 'Invincibles' team that won the Premier League title in 2003-04 without losing a game. During his 11-year stint at the Emirates Stadium, the attacking midfielder bagged 113 goals and 94 assists for The Gunners in 410 appearances.
Dennis Bergkamp won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups with Arsenal. He also won multiple trophies with Ajax and Inter Milan. Unfortunately, he has no international trophy in his cabinet despite playing 79 games for the Netherlands and recording 37 goals for them.
#4 Paolo Maldini
Paolo Maldini played his entire club career at AC Milan, making a staggering 901 appearances across competitions between 1985 and 2009. He bagged an impressive 33 goals and 43 assists, and won big titles galore during his stint at the San Siro.
The Italian is, without doubt, one of the most decorated defenders in football history. He won five European Cups (three in the Champions League era), seven Serie A titles and four UEFA Cups, among others. However, he failed to replicate that success with Italy.
The centre-back came close on multiple occasions, reaching the final of the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where the Azzurri lost to Brazil in a penalty shootout. He also lost to France in the final of the European Championship in 2000.
#3 Eusebio
Eusebio was widely considered the greatest Portuguese player in history before the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo. He enjoyed a stellar career at the pinnacle of the game. The former striker made a name for himself across Europe with his incredible performances for Benfica.
Eusebio claimed multiple honours during his playing days. The major highlight of his career came in 1965, when he won the coveted Ballon d'Or award. He also enjoyed a successful spell with Portugal, recording 41 goals in 64 games.
Despite his brilliance and incredible achievements, the Benfica legend couldn't inspire his nation to any major honours. He played in the FIFA World Cup just once - in 1966 - where Portugal crashed out to eventual winners England in the semi-final.
#2 Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff won the hearts of many with his Total Football during his playing days.
The Dutchman enjoyed a highly successful career for Barcelona and Ajax. He claimed multiple trophies with both clubs, including three European Cups, six KNVB Cups, one La Liga title and one Copa del Rey.
Johan Cruyff is also one of the most successful players in Ballon d'Or history, winning the accolade on three occasions. His spell on the international stage, though, wasn't as successful.
The legendary attacking midfielder scored 33 goals for the Netherlands in 48 games, but failed to win any major honour. He came very close to winning the FIFA World Cup in 1974, but was unlucky as West Germany recorded a 2-1 comeback win,
#1 Ferenc Puskas
Ferenc Puskas was known for scoring beautiful goals throughout his career, so the iconic Puskas award was named after the Hungarian magician. Puskas was a joy to watch during his days on the pitch, with the brightest years of his career coming with Real Madrid.
The legendary striker won three European Cups, five La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey, among others, for Lost Blancos. He also bagged 199 goals for Los Blancos in 266 games, as per Transfermarkt.
Just like the other names on this list, Puskas did not enjoy as much success in his international career. Despite bagging 84 goals in 85 appearances for Hungary, the iconic striker failed to inspire the team to success.
He got close to getting the job done at the FIFA World Cup in 1954. However, luck wasn't on his side, as his team lost 3-2 to West Germany.
