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#7 MICHEL PLATINI
A prolific goalscorer from midfield, Michel Platini is regarded as one of the best French footballers to have played the game.
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An incredibly creative passer as well as a good free-kick taker, Platini dominated from the no.10 position despite his slight frame. Having begun his career with Nancy, the France international enjoyed spells with Saint-Etienne and Juventus, making more than a hundred league appearances for all three of his clubs.
He retired in 1987, becoming the manager of the France national team in 1988. He stepped down as coach in 1992. In recent years Platini has been embroiled in controversy due to his role in FIFA and UEFA and has been accused of corruption. He was barred from the sport until 2023 due to corruption charges.
#6 RONALDINHO
Brazil is a hotbed of attacking talent, and Ronaldinho is another player from the nation who has had an important impact on the game.
Renowned for his creativity, flair, dribbling and overall technical ability, Ronaldinho is seen as a modern great. He made his name at Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Barcelona, where he would become the best in the world due to his consistent performances. Pre-Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho was running Barcelona's attacks.
He won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil and made 97 appearances for the national team, scoring 33 goals. After leaving Barcelona he played for the likes of AC Milan, Flamengo and Fluminense, before retiring in 2015.
#5 ZINEDINE ZIDANE
An excellent playmaker, the Real Madrid manager was known for his vision, passing and elegance, Zinedine Zidane won the 1998 Ballon d'Or for his performances.
Having begun his career with Cannes, Zidane made his name at Bordeaux, moving to Juventus in 1996. Here the France international was at his very best, earning a €77.5 million move to Real Madrid in 2001, aged 29. Brilliant technically and seen as a role model for many players, Zidane made an indelible impact with his performances.
Having retired in 2006, Zidane became the manager of Real Madrid in 2016, winning three consecutive Champions League titles with the club. After a season away, he joined the club again, this time winning the league. He is currently regarded as one of the best managers in the world.
#4 ALFREDO DI STEFANO
Alfredo Di Stefano had such an impact at Real Madrid that the club decided to name the stadium where the club players usually train after him.
A prolific goalscorer who was strong and fast during his prime, Di Stefano enjoyed a good partnership with fellow forward Ferenc Puskas at Real Madrid. He joined Los Blancos in 1953 from Millonarios, going on to play 396 games in all competitions and scoring 308 goals.
After a stint with Espanyol, Di Stefano retired in 1966. Subsequently he went on to manage the likes of Boca Juniors, Valencia and Real Madrid. He made appearances for three national teams during his playing career; Argentina, Colombia and Spain.
Also Read: 10 greatest goalkeepers of all time
