1. Lionel Messi
It’s impossible to talk about breakthrough footballers of the 21st century without mentioning Lionel Messi. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi’s rise from a young talent at FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy to global superstardom is a story that has inspired millions.
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| Image Source: Google |
With over 700 career goals and seven Ballon d'Or awards, Messi has redefined what it means to be a footballing genius. His recent World Cup win with Argentina in 2022 solidified his place among the all-time greats, leaving an indelible legacy in the sport.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo’s breakthrough as a footballer was as meteoric as it was impressive. From a skinny
teenager at Sporting CP to one of the most complete athletes in the sport’s history, Ronaldo has dominated football in the 21st century alongside Lionel Messi, creating one of the greatest individual rivalries in sports.
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| Image Source: Google |
After a record-breaking move to Real Madrid in 2009, Ronaldo elevated his game even further, breaking goal-scoring records and helping the Spanish giants win four Champions League titles during his tenure. Ronaldo’s ability to adapt to different leagues, and his leadership in guiding Portugal to a Euro 2016 title, has cemented him as a global football icon.
3. Kylian Mbappé
At just 19 years old, Kylian Mbappé captured the world's attention during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, becoming one of the youngest players to ever score in a World Cup final. His electric speed, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing instantly drew comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats, and his performances in Russia helped France lift the World Cup for the second time in its history.
Mbappé’s breakthrough had already begun before the World Cup, though. After debuting for AS
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| Image Source: Real Madrid Fc |
His influence on the game goes beyond his goals and assists. Mbappé’s composure, maturity, and leadership at such a young age have marked him as the future of football, and his hunger for success suggests that his best years are still ahead.
4. Neymar Jr.
Few players have lived up to the hype as much as Neymar Jr. Bursting onto the scene as a teenage prodigy at Santos FC, Neymar quickly established himself as the next big thing in Brazilian football. His dazzling skills, audacious dribbling, and flair for the spectacular made him a fan favorite, and it wasn’t long before Europe’s biggest clubs came calling.
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| Image Source: Barcelona Fc |
Neymar’s breakthrough came when he moved to FC Barcelona in 2013, forming a formidable attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, known as MSN. Together, they helped Barcelona win the treble in the 2014–15 season, with Neymar playing a pivotal role in their Champions League triumph.
In 2017, Neymar made headlines by joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in a record-breaking €222 million transfer, the highest in football history. While his time in Paris has been marked by both brilliance and controversy, Neymar remains one of the most skilled and creative forwards in the game, capable of turning matches on their head with moments of individual magic.
5. Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah’s rise to global stardom is a testament to perseverance. After failing to make a significant impact at Chelsea, many thought Salah’s chance to shine at the highest level had passed. However, after impressing at AS Roma, he returned to the Premier League with Liverpool in 2017, and the rest is history.
Salah’s breakthrough came during his debut season at Liverpool, where he scored an astounding 32 goals in the Premier League, setting a new record for most goals in a 38-game season. His blistering pace, technical ability, and lethal finishing made him a fan favorite and one of the deadliest forwards in world football.Salah was instrumental in Liverpool’s Champions League
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| Image Source: TNT Sports |
League title in 30 years in 2020. His consistent performances and ability to deliver in big moments have solidified his status as one of the top footballers of the modern era.
Conclusion
The 21st century has given us some of the most exceptional football talent ever seen. From Messi and Ronaldo's legendary rivalry to the rise of new superstars like Mbappé and Salah, these players have not only set new standards for excellence but have also inspired a new generation of footballers. As we move forward, it's exciting to imagine who will follow in their footsteps and define the next era of football.
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