The 56 Players With the Most Assists in Football History

Players With the Most Assists in Football History: Assists Providers are the unsung heroes of football, often overshadowed by goals but equally crucial in shaping the outcome of a match. The art of creating chances for teammates requires vision, skill, and a deep understanding of the game.

Throughout football history, a select group of players has consistently demonstrated this artistry, racking up impressive assist totals that showcase their exceptional creativity and playmaking skills.

From legendary figures like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona to modern maestros like Kevin De Bruyne and Luis Suarez, this list celebrates the players who have made a lasting impact on the beautiful game with their exceptional vision and creativity, ranking the top players with the most assists in football history.

Players With the Most Assists in Football History

Here are the 50 Players With the Most Assists in Football History.

56. Ronaldo

Ronaldo has provided a total of 107 assists in 553 matches throughout his career. Known as O Fenômeno (‘The Phenomenon’) and R9, he is celebrated as one of the greatest footballers ever.

Ronaldo revolutionized the striker role with his versatility and skill. He won FIFA World Player of the Year three times and two Ballon d’Or awards.

Ronaldo scored 62 goals in 98 matches, appearing as the youngest player in the 1994 FIFA World Cup-winning squad. Despite health issues at the 1998 World Cup, he received the Golden Ball.

He later led Brazil to victory at the 2002 World Cup, scoring twice in the final and earning the Golden Boot. Ronaldo also excelled in Copa América, winning in 1997 and 1999.

55. Gerd Müller

Gerd Müller had 113 assists in 675 games. He is considered one of the best goalscorers ever, known for his skill in the six-yard box. He won the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and Ballon d’Or.

For West Germany, Müller scored 68 goals in 62 games. At Bayern Munich, he scored 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga matches, holding the league’s goal record.

He scored ten goals at the 1970 World Cup, winning the Golden Boot. He won the 1972 European Championship, scoring two goals in the final. In the 1974 World Cup, he scored four goals, including the winner in the final.

In 1999, he was ranked ninth in the European Player of the Century by the IFFHS. In 2004, Pelé included him in the FIFA 100 list of the world’s greatest living players.

54. Harry Kane

Harry Kane has privided 115 assists in in 672 matches. He’s known for scoring a lot and being one of the best players and strikers around the world.

Kane holds the record for most goals scored for Tottenham Hotspur and England, and he’s the second-highest scorer in Premier League history.

In 2023, he joined Bayern Munich for a record fee of €110 million, scoring 36 goals in his debut Bundesliga season and winning the European Golden Shoe.

Kane has scored 63 goals in 91 appearances since debuting in 2015. He led England to the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2020 and captained them to their first major final since 1966, finishing as runners-up.

53. Pedro

Pedro is renowned for his prolific scoring and versatility, achieved significant milestones during his career. His time at Barcelona from 2008 to 2015 saw him score 99 goals in 321 matches, including a unique feat of scoring in every official club competition in a single season and calendar year in 2009–10.

Moving to Chelsea in 2015, Pedro contributed 43 goals in 206 appearances, aiding the club to victories in the Premier League (2017), FA Cup (2018), and UEFA Europa League (2019). He continued his Serie A journey with Roma in 2020 before joining Lazio in 2021.

Pedro played crucial roles for Spain, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the UEFA European Championship in 2012.

52. Bernardo Silva

Silva is known for his exceptional skills and versatility, emerged from Benfica’s youth academy. After a stint at Monaco, he joined Manchester City in 2017, where he quickly became a key player. His contributions helped City secure Premier League and EFL Cup titles early on, followed by a historic domestic treble.

Silva’s influence continued as City achieved their first UEFA Champions League final in 2021 and a continental treble in 2023.

Internationally, he debuted for Portugal in 2015 and has been pivotal in their FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship campaigns, including winning the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

51. Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona has provided a total of 123 assists in 427 matches throughout his career. He’s known as one of football’s greatest players, famous for his skills as a playmaker and his ability to dribble past opponents with his low center of gravity.

Maradona played for Napoli and Barcelona, winning titles and earning awards. He led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup, scoring the infamous “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” against England.

After retiring, he coached various teams, leaving a lasting legacy in football worldwide.

50. Leroy Sané

Leroy Sané has provided a total of 129 assists in 511 matches across all competitions in his career.

Sané started his professional career with Schalke 04 in 2014 before moving to Manchester City in 2016 for an initial fee of £37 million. He was named PFA Young Player of the Year for the 2017-18 season, becoming the first German player to receive this honor, contributing to City’s Premier League and EFL Cup victories.

He started playing for Germany’s national team in November 2015. He was also on the team that made it to the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2016.

49. Sergio Aguero

Sergio Agüero has provided 130 assists in 566 matches throughout his career. He’s considered one of the best strikers ever, especially in the Premier League, where he played for Manchester City from 2011 to 2021.

He’s City’s top scorer and won five league titles and six EFL Cups. He won Olympic gold with Argentina and the Copa América in 2021. After joining Barcelona in 2021, he retired due to heart issues.

48. Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling has provided a total of 140 assists in 653 matches across all competitions in his career.

Sterling received the PFA Young Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards in the 2018–19 season.

Sterling has been part of England’s squads for multiple FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships, including the 2022 World Cup and 2020 Euros.

47. Didier Drogba

Didier Drogba provided a total of 145 assists in 781 matches across all competitions in his career. He’s a legendary Ivorian striker known for his strength, speed, aerial ability, and powerful shooting.

Drogba had a lot of success at Chelsea. He became their highest-scoring foreign player of all time and won several Premier League titles. He also scored important goals in FA Cup and Champions League finals, including the decisive penalty in Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League victory.

Drogba led Ivory Coast to their first World Cup appearance and served as captain, scoring 65 goals in 105 matches. Beyond football, he’s a UN Goodwill Ambassador and advocates for peace and development in Africa.

46. Jordi Alba

Jordi Alba has provided a total of 146 assists in 728 matches across all competitions in his career. He’s widely recognized as one of the best left-backs of his era. With the club, he has won Many honors, including five La Liga titles and one UEFA Champions League.

Alba made his senior debut for Spain in 2011 and played a crucial role in their success at UEFA Euro 2012. He also represented Spain at multiple World Cups and European Championships, captaining them to victory in the 2022–23 UEFA Nations League.

45. Antoine Griezmann

Griezmann has provided a total of 157 assists in 566 matches across all competitions. Considered one of the best players globally, he’s known for his versatility, tactical intelligence, attacking skills, and off-the-ball movements.

Starting at Real Sociedad, Griezmann won the Segunda División in his debut season. He moved to Atlético Madrid in 2014, securing titles like the UEFA Europa League and La Liga Best Player before a record transfer to Barcelona in 2019 for €120 million. He returned to Atlético in 2021, becoming their all-time top goalscorer.

Griezmann won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2010 and made his senior debut for France in 2014. He scored 44 goals in over 120 caps, ranking fifth in appearances and fourth in goals for France.

He won awards at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where France won, and was key in their second-place finishes at UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

44. Miralem Pjanic

Pjanić has provided a total of 157 assists in 754 career matches across all competitions. Known for his midfield skills, he joined Juventus in 2016, winning multiple Serie A and domestic titles.

Pjanić also played for Barcelona and had a loan spell at Beşiktaş before signing with Sharjah in 2022.

He represented Bosnia and Herzegovina, earning 115 caps and scoring eighteen goals, including appearances at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

43. Riyad Mahrez

Mahrez has provided 158 assists in 613 career matches across all competitions. Starting in France, he turned pro with Quimper in 2009, then moved to Le Havre. In 2014, he joined Leicester City, helping them to the Premier League. He was named Algerian Footballer of the Year in 2016.

Mahrez joined Manchester City in 2018, winning multiple league titles, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and the UEFA Champions League in 2022–23.

He debuted for Algeria in 2014, competing in the World Cup and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, winning the 2019 title and earning accolades for his play.

42. Kylian Mbappé

Mbappé has 161 assists in 473 matches across all competitions. He’s considered one of the world’s best for his speed, dribbling, and scoring skills. Starting with Monaco, he moved to PSG in 2017 for a record fee. With PSG, he won many league titles and reached a Champions League final.

Mbappé starred for France, winning the 2018 World Cup, where he was awarded Best Young Player. He set records at the 2022 World Cup, winning the Golden Boot and Silver Ball.

He’s won multiple individual awards, and recognized globally for his impact in football and beyond.

41. Luka Modric

Luka Modrić plays mainly in midfield, known as one of the best ever from Croatia. He started with Dinamo Zagreb, moved to Tottenham Hotspur, then became a star at Real Madrid, winning many trophies including six Champions Leagues.

Modrić won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, breaking Messi and Ronaldo’s streak. He’s led Croatia in major tournaments and holds their appearance record, winning the Golden Ball at the 2018 World Cup.

Modric has provided a total of 163 assists in 974 matches.

40. Miroslav Klose

Klose has provided a total of 163 assists in 804 matches across all competitions in his career. He is renowned as a striker and holds the record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup history with 16 goals across four tournaments from 2002 to 2014.

Starting at FC 08 Homburg, Klose moved on to play in the Bundesliga for Kaiserslautern and became a prolific scorer at Werder Bremen, earning German Footballer of the Year in 2006. His success led him to Bayern Munich in 2007, where he won two Bundesliga titles. In 2011, he joined Lazio in Serie A, winning the Coppa Italia in 2013, and retired from playing in 2016.

Klose achieved great success with Germany, winning the 2014 World Cup and finishing as runner-up in 2002, and third place in 2006, 2010, and 2012 at the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro respectively.

39. Roberto Baggio

Roberto Baggio made 165 assists in 660 matches. Known for his dribbling, free-kicks, and goal-scoring, he is considered one of the greatest players ever.

Baggio played for Italy 56 times, scoring 27 goals. He led Italy to the 1994 World Cup final, where he won the Silver Ball but missed a crucial penalty in the shootout against Brazil.

In his club career, Baggio scored 318 goals, making him the fifth-highest scoring Italian in all competitions. He played for seven Italian clubs, including Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan. He won two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, and a UEFA Cup.

Baggio won many awards, including the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 1993. He was named in the FIFA 100 list by Pelé and received the Golden Foot award.

38. Lukas Podolski

Podolski has provided a total of 165 assists in 801 matches across all competitions in his career.

Known for his powerful left foot, explosive shooting, and attacking skills from the left side, he began his professional career at 1. FC Köln in 2003, making 81 appearances before moving to Bayern Munich. He won the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double with Bayern in 2008. After returning to Köln, he joined Arsenal in 2012 and won the FA Cup in 2014. Podolski also had stints at Inter Milan and Galatasaray, winning the Turkish Cup in 2016.

Podolski represented Germany, earning 130 caps and scoring 49 goals. He played in seven major tournaments and was part of the squad that won the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

37. Raúl

Raúl has provided a total of 165 assists in 1017 matches across all competitions in his career. He is currently the manager of Real Madrid Castilla, known for nurturing young talent for the first team.

Regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation and among Spain’s finest, Raúl spent 16 iconic years at Real Madrid. As their third all-time top goalscorer with 323 goals, he won numerous titles including six La Liga championships and three UEFA Champions League trophies.

Raúl represented Spain in three World Cups and two European Championships, scoring a then-record 44 goals in 102 appearances.

36. Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos provided a total of 167 assists in 883 matches throughout his career. Known as the “most offensive-minded left-back in history,” he’s consider as one of the greatest full-backs ever.

Starting as a forward in Brazil, he switched to left-back and excelled at Real Madrid for 11 seasons, winning four La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League trophies.

He played in three World Cups, including Brazil’s 2002 victory, and scored a memorable 40-yard free kick against France in 1997.

35. Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane gave 171 assists in 797 games in his career. He’s famous as one of the best ever, known for his skill and vision.

Zidane won many awards, including FIFA World Player of the Year three times. He played for top clubs like Juventus and Real Madrid, winning league titles and the Champions League.

Zidane also led France to a World Cup victory in 1998 and won Euro 2000. As a coach, he made history by winning three straight Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

34. Landon Donovan

Landon Donovan has 171 assists in 543 matches across his career. He’s considered one of the greatest American players, often compared to Clint Dempsey.

Donovan holds the record for most international assists (58) and shares the record for most international goals (57) with Dempsey.

Starting at IMG Academy, he played for Bayer Leverkusen before moving to MLS with the San Jose Earthquakes.

Donovan’s major success came with the LA Galaxy, winning six MLS Cups and setting the league’s assist record (136). He also had stints in Germany with Bayern Munich and in England with Everton.

33. Kaka

Kaká has provided 172 assists in 643 matches. He shone brightest at AC Milan, known for his passing, speed, and scoring ability. He won Serie A and the Champions League, earning Ballon d’Or in 2007.

Kaká played for Real Madrid before returning briefly to AC Milan and retiring at Orlando City SC. He helped Brazil win the 2002 World Cup and was a star in the Confederations Cup.

Off-field, Kaká is a UN World Food Programme ambassador and was a Time 100 influential person in 2008 and 2009.

32. Mohamed Salah

Salah has assisted in 174 goals in 698 matches in his career. He’s considered one of the best players today and one of Africa’s greatest ever, known for his scoring, dribbling, and speed.

At Liverpool, Salah set records for most goals in a Premier League season and was key in their Champions League and Premier League wins.

Salah debuted for Egypt in 2011 and has been instrumental in their successes, finishing as runner-up in the Africa Cup of Nations twice and leading Egypt to the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

He has received multiple individual honors, including two PFA Players’ Player of the Year awards, three Premier League Golden Boots, and being named CAF African Footballer of the Year twice.

31. Frank Lampard

Frank Lampard made 181 assists in 1004 matches. He is one of Chelsea’s greatest players and a top midfielder of his generation. He holds the Premier League record for most goals by a midfielder and most goals from outside the box.

Starting at West Ham in 1995, Lampard joined Chelsea in 2001 for £11 million. He became Chelsea’s top scorer with 211 goals and won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, Europa League, four FA Cups, and two League Cups. After Chelsea, he played for Manchester City and New York City FC, retiring in 2017.

For England, Lampard played 106 matches, scoring 29 goals. He played in three World Cups and Euro 2004, where he was in the Team of the Tournament. He was England Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005 and received an OBE in 2015.

30. Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has provided 185 assists in 884 matches in his career. He’s considered one of the best players of his time, scored the most goals ever for Manchester United, and held England’s goal-scoring record from 2015 to 2023.

Starting at Everton’s youth team at age nine, Rooney made his professional debut for the club in 2002 at just 16 years old. He moved to Manchester United in 2004 for £25.6 million, winning 16 trophies including the Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, and more. Rooney scored 253 goals for United, becoming their all-time leading goalscorer.

Rooney started playing for England in 2003 when he was 17 years old. He scored 53 goals in 120 games for his country. He took part in several UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups, becoming a crucial player for England.

Rooney won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards, showcasing his impact in the Premier League.

29. Eden Hazard

Eden Hazard made 186 assists in 749 matches. Known for his dribbling and creativity, he is considered one of the best players of his generation.

Hazard moved to Chelsea, where he won the Europa League, Premier League, FA Cup, and multiple individual awards. He scored twice in the 2019 Europa League final. In 2019, he transferred to Real Madrid for up to €150 million.

Hazard debuted for Belgium at 17 and earned over 126 caps. He captained Belgium to third place at the 2018 World Cup and served as captain from 2015 to 2022, leading them to the top of the FIFA rankings for the longest reign of any European team.

28. Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos has provided 187 assists in 863 matches. He’s often seen as one of the best midfielders ever, praised for his passing, vision, and skill with Free kicks.

Kroos began at Bayern Munich, winning titles including the Champions League. He joined Real Madrid in 2014, winning many trophies like La Liga and the Champions League. He won the 2014 World Cup with Germany and was key at Euro 2016.

Kroos retired in 2024 after playing 108 games for Germany and earning many personal awards during his impressive career.

27. Alexis Sanchez

Alexis Sánchez has made 188 assists in 864 matches. He’s considered Chile’s greatest player ever. Known as “El Niño Maravilla” (The Wonder Child), he started young at Cobreloa, then played for Udinese, winning titles on loan at Colo-Colo and River Plate.

He joined Barcelona in 2011 and won six trophies there. After moving to Arsenal in 2014, he earned two FA Cups. Later, he played for Manchester United and Inter Milan, where he also won a Serie A title.

Sánchez earned 163 caps for Chile, leading them to their first Copa América win in 2015 and repeating it in 2016.

26. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski has provided a total of 189 assists in 666 matches across all competitions in his career. Widely consider as one of the greatest strikers of all time, he has scored over 600 goals for club and country.

Starting at Znicz Pruszków, Lewandowski made a name at Borussia Dortmund, winning two Bundesliga titles and reaching the 2013 UEFA Champions League final. He joined Bayern Munich in 2014, winning the Bundesliga every season and achieving a treble in 2019–20. Known for his scoring skills, he set records in the Bundesliga, including most goals in a season.

Lewandowski has earned 150 caps for Poland, scoring 82 goals. He has featured in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups, winning awards like the IFFHS Best International Goal Scorer and UEFA Men’s Player of the Year.

Recently, he joined Barcelona in 2022, winning the Supercopa de España, La Liga, and the Pichichi Trophy in his debut season. Lewandowski is revered for his goal-scoring feats and remains a dominant force in world football.

25. Andrés Iniesta

Iniesta has made 192 assists in 1016 matches. He’s one of the best midfielders ever, known for his balance, ball control, and creativity.

Most of his career was at Barcelona, where he won many trophies, including nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.

He also starred for Spain, helping them win Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup with his famous goal in the final.

24. Alessandro Del Piero

Alessandro Del Piero made 195 assists in 868 matches. He was a talented and creative forward, known for his free-kicks.

Del Piero scored 346 goals, making him the second highest all-time Italian top-scorer. He played for Juventus for 19 seasons, holding records for most goals (290) and appearances (705).

Del Piero was named in the FIFA 100 list of greatest living footballers in 2004 and won the Golden Foot award. He represented Italy in three World Cups and four European Championships, winning the 2006 World Cup. He is Italy’s joint fourth highest scorer with 27 goals and made 91 appearances for the national team. Del Piero scored a total of 462 goals in his career.

23. Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho provided a total of 196 assists in 644 matches across his career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he achieved unique honors such as winning a World Cup, Copa América, Confederations Cup, Champions League, Copa Libertadores, and a Ballon d’Or.

Known for his exceptional skills in dribbling, creativity, and accuracy from free-kicks, Ronaldinho began his career at Grêmio before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and then Barcelona. His standout seasons at Barcelona included winning the 2005–06 UEFA Champions League and two La Liga titles.

After spells at AC Milan, Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro, and other clubs, he retired with accolades including two FIFA World Player of the Year awards and being named in the FIFA 100 list of greatest living players.

He played a crucial role in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup victory and other tournaments, earning 97 caps and scoring 33 goals for his country.

22. Dani Alves

Dani Alves provided a total of 199 assists in 995 matches across his career. Starting in Brazil with Bahia, he moved to Sevilla, winning two UEFA Cups and the Copa del Rey.

Joining Barcelona in 2008 for a record fee, he won many titles including two UEFA Champions League trophies. After spells at Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain, where he won domestic and European honors, he returned to Brazil with São Paulo in 2019.

He represented Brazil in three World Cups, five Copa América tournaments, winning titles in 2007 and 2019, and a gold medal at the 2020 Olympics.

21. Thierry Henry

Thierry Henry provided 201 assists in 817 matches throughout his career. He’s considered one of the greatest strikers ever and a Premier League legend, notably with Arsenal where he’s their all-time top scorer.

Henry won the World Cup and Euro with France, and was named in FIFA’s 100 greatest players list. After retiring, he coached Arsenal’s youth, then worked with Belgium and managed clubs like Monaco and Montréal Impact.

He now coaches France’s U-21 and Olympic teams.

20. David Silva

David Silva gave a total of 216 assists in 872 matches in his career. He’s known for his great passing and keeping the ball, earning nicknames like Merlin and El Mago (The Magician).

Silva played for Valencia and won the Copa del Rey in 2008. He then joined Manchester City, where he won many trophies including four Premier League titles.

Silva also played for Spain, winning UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2012. He retired in 2023 due to a knee injury.

19. Karim Benzema

Benzema has provided 221 assists in 931 matches across all competitions in his career. Known as one of the greatest strikers, he’s admired for his technical prowess, vision, and versatility on the field.

Benzema holds Real Madrid’s second-highest goal tally and most assists ever. With Real Madrid, he won 25 trophies including La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League titles, scoring over 500 career goals.

Benzema moved to Real Madrid in 2009 for €35 million, forming the famed “BBC” trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. Benzema excelled as a striker, earning La Liga Best Player awards and winning the Pichichi Trophy in 2022. He captained Real Madrid and led in scoring for their fifth Champions League title in 2022 before joining Al-Ittihad.

For France, Benzema debuted in 2007 and scored in major tournaments, despite controversies like missing the 2010 World Cup and a 2015 scandal. He retired from international play in 2022.

18. Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimović has provided 227 assists in 949 matches in his career. Known for his acrobatic strikes and technical skills, he’s considered one of the greatest strikers ever, winning 34 trophies.

With over 570 goals, including more than 500 for clubs, he’s played across Europe’s top leagues—Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, PSG, Manchester United, LA Galaxy, and AC Milan again.

Ibrahimović holds Sweden’s goal-scoring record, with 62 goals over two decades, and has won the Golden Ball award 12 times. His memorable bicycle kick goal against England in 2013 won the FIFA Puskás Award. He’s been named in FIFA’s World XI and UEFA’s Team of the Year multiple times. Off the field, he’s known for his bold personality and self-references.

17. Francesco Totti

Francesco Totti made 231 assists in 841 matches. He was a talented playmaker and forward. Known as “The Golden Boy” and “The Captain,” he was a beloved figure in Italian football.

Totti won the 2006 World Cup and was a finalist at Euro 2000 with Italy. He retired from international play in 2007 to focus on Roma.

Considered one of the greatest players of his generation, Totti won many awards, including five Serie A Italian Footballer of the Year titles and the 2007 European Golden Shoe. He was named in the FIFA 100 list by Pelé in 2004. After retiring in 2017, he received the Player’s Career Award and the UEFA President’s Award.

16. Johan Cruyff

Johan Cruyff is widely seen as the greatest Dutch footballer ever, assisted in 234 goals across 613 matches in his career. He won the Ballon d’Or three times and popularized Total Football.

Cruyff led Ajax to many titles and later triumphed with Barcelona. His impact extended beyond playing, becoming a revered coach known for his innovative tactics.

Globally recognized, he’s celebrated as one of football’s all-time greats for his skill, vision, and lasting influence on the game.

15. Xavi Hernandez

Xavi has provided a total of 241 assists in 1062 matches across all competitions in his career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, he is celebrated for his exceptional passing, vision, ball retention, and positional play.

Beginning his career at Barcelona’s La Masia academy at age 11, Xavi made his first-team debut at 18. He went on to play 767 official matches for Barcelona, scoring 85 goals and winning numerous trophies, including eight La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles. His influence on the team was profound, setting records for European and FIFA Club World Cup appearances.

Xavi earned 133 caps for Spain, playing a pivotal role in their historic victories at UEFA Euro 2008, where he was named Player of the Tournament, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2012. He retired from international football after the 2014 World Cup, having been recognized with multiple individual awards, including four IFFHS World’s Best Playmaker titles.

14. Luis Figo

Figo has provided a total of 245 assists in 784 matches across all competitions in his career. He won 127 caps for the Portugal national team and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation.

Figo’s career spanned both Barcelona and Real Madrid, with his controversial transfer in 2000 setting a world record fee of €62 million. Throughout his career, he amassed numerous trophies including league titles in Spain and Italy, as well as European honors like the UEFA Champions League.

Figo scored 32 goals for Portugal and played in multiple European Championships and World Cups, reaching the final of Euro 2004 and the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup. His achievements solidify his legacy as one of football’s iconic figures.

13. Franck Ribéry

Ribéry has provided a total of 249 assists in 913 matches across all competitions in his career. He was widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation during his time with Bayern Munich, where he won many titles including nine Bundesliga championships, six DFB-Pokals, one UEFA Champions League, and one FIFA Club World Cup.

His career began in France, progressing through various clubs before moving to Bayern Munich in 2007 for a then club-record fee.

Ribéry represented France in two FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships, earning 81 caps. He received multiple individual awards, including three French Player of the Year titles and the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award in 2013.

12. Cesc Fabregas

Fàbregas has provided a total of 252 assists in 849 matches across all competitions in his career. He is currently the assistant coach of Como in the Italian Serie B.

Starting his career at Barcelona’s La Masia academy, Fàbregas moved to Arsenal at 16. He quickly became a key player, setting records and winning the FA Cup in 2005. After returning to Barcelona in 2011, he won La Liga and other titles before joining Chelsea in 2014, where he secured the League Cup and Premier League in his first year.

Fàbregas debuted for Spain in 2006 and played a crucial role in their victories at Euro 2008 and 2012, as well as the 2010 World Cup where he assisted Andrés Iniesta’s winning goal.

11. Mesut Ozil

Mesut Özil has provided a total of 258 assists in 737 matches across all competitions in his career. He’s known for his skills, creativity, passing, and vision, making him one of the best midfielders of his time. He started at Schalke 04, moved to Werder Bremen in 2008, and then joined Real Madrid in 2010, winning a La Liga title and leading in assists for three seasons.

Özil played for Germany for over nine years, playing a key part in their 2014 FIFA World Cup win. He led in assists at the 2010 World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012.

Özil retired from international football in 2018 amidst controversies involving discrimination and media treatment by the German Football Association (DFB).

10. Ryan Giggs

Ryan Giggs has made 261 assists in 1025 matches in his career. He’s considered one of the greatest players of his generation and one of football’s best wingers ever.

Giggs spent his entire career at Manchester United, where he holds records for appearances and assists. He won many trophies with United, including 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League titles.

Giggs also played for Wales, captaining the team and later managing them. He’s received many honors for his contributions to football, both as a player and a coach.

9. David Beckham

Beckham has provided a total of 266 assists in 839 matches across all competitions in his career. Primarily known for his skills as a right winger, including exceptional passing, crossing, and free-kick abilities, he is celebrated as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation and a top free-kick taker of all time.

Beginning his professional career with Manchester United in 1992 at age 17, Beckham won numerous trophies including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League in 1999. He later played for Real Madrid, winning La Liga in his final season. In 2007, Beckham joined LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, with loan spells at AC Milan in 2009 and 2010, becoming the first British player to reach 100 UEFA Champions League appearances. He retired in 2013 after a 20-year career.

Beckham debuted for England in 1996 and served as captain for six years, earning 115 caps. He participated in three FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships.

8. Neymar Jr.

Neymar has made 279 assists in 718 matches in his career. He’s known for his flashy style, great passing, and scoring over 100 goals for three clubs.

Neymar’s a top scorer in Champions League history and Brazil’s leading goal scorer. He started at Santos, won titles with Barcelona, and set a transfer record to join PSG. With PSG, he won Ligue 1 awards and helped reach the Champions League final.

Neymar’s also starred for Brazil, winning the Confederations Cup and Olympic gold. He’s won several awards, been named to top teams, and is known as one of the world’s most marketable athletes.

7. Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo has provided a total of 286 assists in 1242 matches across all competitions in his career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he has achieved many awards including five Ballon d’Or awards and four European Golden Shoes. His career spans over 1,200 appearances, where he has scored over 890 goals for club and country, setting records in the Champions League and international football.

Beginning with Sporting CP, Ronaldo moved to Manchester United in 2003, winning multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League. His transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 set a record at the time, and he became the club’s all-time leading scorer, winning four Champions Leagues and multiple domestic titles. In 2018, he joined Juventus, winning Serie A titles and becoming the league’s top scorer. He returned to Manchester United in 2021 before moving to Al Nassr in 2023.

Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in 2003, earning over 200 caps and becoming their all-time top scorer with 130 goals. He led Portugal to victories at Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

6. Angel di Maria

Di María has provided a total of 301 assists in 906 matches across all competitions in his career. Known for his technical skills, agility, passing, and vision, he is widely regarded as one of the top players of his generation.

He moved to Real Madrid in 2010, winning La Liga and the UEFA Champions League during his tenure. A British record transfer took him to Manchester United in 2014 before he joined Paris Saint-Germain a year later. In France, he won many league titles, domestic cups, and reached the Champions League final in 2020. He returned to Benfica after a brief stint at Juventus in 2022.

Di María debuted for Argentina in 2008 and has earned over 130 caps, winning the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup and two Olympic gold medals. He played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, scoring in the final, and also helped his country win the 2021 Copa América, scoring the winning goal in the final.

5. Luis Suarez

Suárez has made 302 assists in 945 matches. He’s known as “El Pistolero” for his scoring skills and is considered one of the greatest strikers ever. He’s won multiple Golden Shoes and league titles, playing for clubs like Ajax, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid.

He’s Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer and has played in several World Cups and Copa Américas. His career has been marked by both success and controversy, including notable incidents like biting opponents and controversial handballs.

4. Kevin De Bruyne

De Bruyne has made 304 assists in 724 matches across all competitions in his career. Known as one of the best modern playmakers, he excels in technique, skill, vision, passing, and long-range shooting with both feet.

In 2015, Manchester City signed him for a then-club record fee of £54 million. Since then, he’s won Many titles including the UEFA Champions League, six Premier League titles, and several domestic cups with City.

De Bruyne has earned over 100 caps for Belgium, scoring 27 goals. He played a key role in their success at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has been recognized with multiple awards, including Premier League Playmaker of the Season, PFA Players’ Player of the Year, and UEFA Champions League Midfielder of the Season honors.

3. Thomas Muller

Thomas Müller has made 316 assists in 938 matches. He plays various attacking roles and is known for his positioning, teamwork, stamina, and consistency in scoring and creating goals.

He has been with Bayern Munich since youth and has won 12 Bundesliga titles, 6 DFB-Pokals, 8 DFL-Supercups, 2 UEFA Champions League titles, 2 UEFA Super Cups, and 2 FIFA Club World Cups.

Müller started playing for Germany in 2010. He scored five goals in the 2010 World Cup, winning the Golden Boot, and helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup, scoring five goals and earning the Silver Ball and Silver Boot. He is the most decorated German footballer with 33 trophies.

2. Pelé

Pelé provided 369 assists in 858 matches in his career. He scored 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, a Guinness World Record.

Pelé won three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970), the only player to do so and the youngest at 17. Known as “The King,” he scored 77 goals in 92 games for Brazil and 643 goals in 659 games for Santos. He helped Santos win the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup twice.

Pelé made “The Beautiful Game” popular with his exciting style and amazing goals. His fame took him around the world.

1. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi has 417 assists in 1101 career matches. He’s widely considered one of the greatest players ever, winning eight Ballon d’Or awards. He spent most of his career at Barcelona, winning 34 trophies, including ten La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. He holds records for most goals in La Liga and the most goals for a single club (672).

Messi moved to Spain at 13 to join Barcelona, debuting at 17. He quickly became a star, winning many titles and Ballon d’Or awards. He played for Paris Saint-Germain from 2021, winning two Ligue 1 titles, then joined Inter Miami in 2023, winning the Leagues Cup.

For Argentina, Messi is the top scorer and has the most appearances. He won youth tournaments and debuted for the senior team in 2005. As captain, he led Argentina to the 2014 World Cup final, the 2015 and 2016 Copa América finals, and won the 2021, and 2024 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup.