All-time Ballon d'Or Winners XI

Striker: Marco van Basten

Marco van Basten

If fate had been kind, Marco van Basten may have won a lot more than just three Serie A titles and two European Cups with AC Milan. He may have even taken the Netherlands far in the 1994 World Cup.

Unfortunately, an ankle injury cut short his career and a number of surgeries were not enough to get him back on the pitch. Sadly, he had to retire at 28!

"Marco was the greatest striker I ever coached. His early retirement was a mortal misfortune for him, for football, and for Milan." - Fabio Capello

The Dutch striker led from the front when AC Milan won back-to-back European Cups in 1988/89 and 1989/90. At 6'2", he was an imposing figure in the box and a clinical finisher.

Despite his height, he was known for scoring a number of acrobatic goals (with Ajax and Milan). Bicycle kicks were a trademark with Van Basten and he was also strong on both feet. Most managers would stick him up front to be on the end of crosses but he also had the intelligence to drop deep and distribute the ball with his keen vision on the pitch.

He was nicknamed The Swan of Utrecht because he was so graceful with the ball. His height never came in the way of his balance and his ball control.

Van Basten won the Ballon d'Or in 1988, 1989, and 1992. But he could have won more and could have become the first player to win four if not for the ankle surgeries.