The Premier League, widely regarded as the most competitive and thrilling football league in the world, has been graced by some of the greatest players to ever step onto the pitch. Since the turn of the century, several footballing icons have left their mark on English football, thrilling fans and inspiring future generations of players. These legends showcased incredible skill, passion, and a drive for excellence that have set them apart as the best of the best. In this article, we look at the top Premier League players of the 21st century, highlighting their achievements, influence on the game, and what made them stand out in a league known for its high-octane competition and unforgiving pace.
Top Premier League Players of the 21st Century: Legends Who Defined English Football
15. Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri is one of the most consistently influential players in world football today. The Spanish defensive midfielder has been an integral part of Manchester City’s success since joining the club in 2019. Under Pep Guardiola, Rodri has evolved into the perfect modern defensive midfielder, adding more to his game each season.
His ability to break up opposition play, dictate tempo, and recently, score crucial goals, makes him one of the most complete players of his generation. Rodri’s calmness under pressure and tactical awareness have helped City dominate both domestically and in Europe. Guardiola himself summed up Rodri’s importance, stating, “He’s able to do everything. An unbelievable player.” A Ballon d’Or contender for the future, Rodri’s class and consistency place him among the Premier League’s elite in the 21st century.
14. Didier Drogba (Chelsea)
There have been few players as physically dominant and impactful as Didier Drogba. A true powerhouse, Drogba’s combination of strength, pace, and finishing ability made him a nightmare for defenders. His two stints at Chelsea were filled with silverware, including four Premier League titles and two Golden Boot awards.
Drogba’s ability to rise to the occasion in big matches was unparalleled. From scoring the winning penalty in the 2012 Champions League final to dominating domestic cup finals, he earned a reputation as a player for the big moments. “He was like an animal in big games,” said Frank Lampard, summarizing Drogba’s incredible competitiveness. Few strikers in the Premier League have been as feared and respected as Drogba.
13. Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)
Vincent Kompany is remembered not only for his leadership qualities but also for his ability to deliver when it mattered most. A rock at the heart of Manchester City’s defense, Kompany helped transform the club from perennial underachievers into a dominant force in English football. His imposing presence, ability to read the game, and leadership on and off the pitch earned him legendary status.
Kompany scored some of City’s most iconic goals, including a stunning long-range strike against Leicester City in 2019 that played a crucial role in securing the Premier League title. He won four Premier League titles with City, cementing his place as one of the all-time great defenders.
12. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
At his peak, Eden Hazard was arguably the most electrifying player in the Premier League. The Belgian wizard combined exceptional dribbling, vision, and an ability to change the outcome of a game in an instant. During his seven years at Chelsea, Hazard won two Premier League titles, was named Premier League Player of the Season (2014-15), and consistently produced moments of individual brilliance.
Hazard’s low center of gravity allowed him to glide past defenders effortlessly, and his ability to score and create goals in equal measure made him one of the most dangerous attackers in the world. While his move to Real Madrid hasn’t lived up to expectations, Hazard’s legacy at Chelsea is unquestionable.
11. Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)
Few strikers have had as profound an impact on the Premier League as Sergio Aguero. Known for his lethal finishing, Aguero was a vital component of Manchester City’s dominance over the past decade. His goal against QPR to secure City’s first Premier League title in 2012 is one of the most iconic moments in football history.
Despite injuries throughout his career, Aguero scored 184 Premier League goals, making him the fourth-highest scorer in league history. His record of scoring 20+ goals in five consecutive seasons is a testament to his consistency and quality. Aguero’s legacy as one of the Premier League’s greatest forwards is secure.
10. David Silva (Manchester City)
David Silva, affectionately known as ‘El Mago’ (The Magician), is one of the most elegant playmakers the Premier League has ever seen. His vision, ball control, and ability to pick out a pass in tight spaces were unrivaled, and for a decade, he was the creative heartbeat of Manchester City’s midfield.
Silva’s influence went beyond goals and assists; he controlled the tempo of the game, dictating play with his intelligence and technical ability. A four-time Premier League winner, Silva is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders to play in the league, and his contribution to City’s rise to dominance is immeasurable.
9. Patrick Vieira (Arsenal)
Patrick Vieira was the driving force behind Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ side in 2003-04, a team that went an entire season unbeaten. The Frenchman was a complete midfielder, equally adept at breaking up play as he was at initiating attacks. Vieira’s combination of physicality, technique, and leadership made him a true Premier League icon.
A three-time Premier League winner, Vieira was the heart and soul of Arsène Wenger’s most successful teams, and his duels with Manchester United’s Roy Keane became legendary. Vieira’s influence on Arsenal and English football is still felt today, and he remains one of the most respected figures in the sport.
8. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has redefined what it means to be a winger in the Premier League. The Egyptian forward broke the league’s single-season goal record with 32 strikes in his debut campaign and has continued to score at a prolific rate ever since.
Salah’s pace, technical ability, and finishing have made him one of the most feared attackers in world football. His contributions have been instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs, and at 32 years old, he continues to be one of the league’s top performers.
7. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Frank Lampard’s goal-scoring record from midfield is nothing short of phenomenal. Chelsea’s all-time leading scorer with 211 goals, Lampard was a key figure in the club’s rise to prominence in the 2000s. A two-time Premier League champion, Lampard’s ability to time his runs into the box and score crucial goals made him one of the best midfielders of his generation.
Lampard’s vision, passing range, and leadership qualities were instrumental in Chelsea’s success under José Mourinho, and he remains one of the most beloved figures at Stamford Bridge.
6. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
Although Steven Gerrard never won the Premier League, his influence on English football is undeniable. The Liverpool legend was a dynamic midfielder who could score, assist, and defend with equal proficiency. Gerrard’s leadership and passion for Liverpool were evident every time he stepped onto the pitch.
Gerrard’s iconic performances in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup earned him a place among the Premier League’s elite, and his commitment to Liverpool throughout his career made him a hero on Merseyside.
5. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
Kevin De Bruyne is the epitome of the modern playmaker. Since joining Manchester City in 2015, the Belgian has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Premier League history. De Bruyne’s vision, passing accuracy, and ability to score from distance make him a constant threat.
A six-time Premier League champion, De Bruyne has been named in the PFA Team of the Year multiple times and continues to be the creative engine behind City’s attacking success. His consistency and brilliance have earned him the title of the best midfielder of his generation.
4.Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Wayne Rooney burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old prodigy and quickly became one of the Premier League’s all-time greats. Rooney’s versatility, physicality, and footballing intelligence allowed him to excel in various positions, and he ended his career as Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer.
A five-time Premier League champion, Rooney was known for his fierce competitiveness and ability to deliver in crucial moments. His longevity and adaptability make him one of the finest players the league has ever seen.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s first spell at Manchester United saw him evolve from a talented but raw winger into the world’s best player. Under Sir Alex Ferguson’s guidance, Ronaldo honed his incredible dribbling skills, physicality, and goal-scoring ability, helping United to three consecutive Premier League titles.
Ronaldo’s 31-goal season in 2007-08 earned him his first Ballon d’Or, and his move to Real Madrid in 2009 for a then-world record fee further solidified his status as a global superstar. While his second stint at Old Trafford didn’t go as planned, Ronaldo’s contribution to the Premier League and his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time cannot be denied.
2. Paul Scholes (Manchester United)
Paul Scholes was the complete midfielder. His ability to dictate the tempo of a game, combined with his vision, passing range, and goal-scoring prowess, made him a key figure in Manchester United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson. Scholes won 11 Premier League titles and was widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
Scholes’ ability to score spectacular goals from distance and his footballing intelligence earned him praise from some of the world’s best players, including Zinedine Zidane and Xavi, who both admired his skills.
1. Thierry Henry (Arsenal)
Thierry Henry is not only the best Premier League player of the 21st century but arguably the greatest player in the league’s history. The Frenchman’s blistering pace, incredible technique, and goal-scoring ability made him a nightmare for defenders. Henry was the talisman for Arsène Wenger’s Arsenal, leading them to two Premier League titles, including the historic ‘Invincibles’ season in 2003-04.
Henry’s 20 goals and 20 assists in a single season remain a testament to his all-round brilliance. He finished his Arsenal career as the club’s all-time leading scorer and is widely regarded as one of the best forwards to ever play the game.
Watch the video: Why De Bruyne is different
Conclusion:
The Premier League has been blessed with a plethora of world-class players over the past two decades. From clinical goal-scorers like Henry and Aguero to midfield maestros like Lampard and Scholes, these players have left an indelible mark on English football. Their skill, passion, and determination have provided fans with countless unforgettable moments and have solidified their places in Premier League history.
FAQs:
- Who is the best Premier League player of the 21st century?
- Thierry Henry is widely regarded as the best Premier League player of the 21st century, known for his incredible goal-scoring ability and leading Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles.’
- Who has won the most Premier League titles among the top players?
- Paul Scholes leads the list with 11 Premier League titles, making him one of the most decorated players in English football history.
- Why is Cristiano Ronaldo considered one of the top Premier League players?
- Cristiano Ronaldo is considered one of the best due to his transformation into a world-class player during his first stint at Manchester United, winning the Ballon d’Or in 2008.
- Which Premier League player has scored the most goals?
- Among the top players listed, Sergio Aguero has the most Premier League goals with 184 during his time at Manchester City.
- What makes Steven Gerrard an all-time Premier League great despite not winning the league?
- Steven Gerrard is considered one of the greatest due to his leadership, all-round skills, and ability to carry Liverpool to numerous victories across different competitions despite never winning the league title.
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