Top assist all time: The most creative players in football history

In the world of football, not only beautiful goals but also excellent assists have contributed to the names of legends. The list of “top assist all time” includes players with an impressive number of assists, proving that the ability to observe and create scoring opportunities is no less important than directly scoring goals. Prominent names such as Ferenc Puskas, Lionel Messi, and Pele are not only remembered for their scoring records, but also for their tactical vision and creativity on the pitch. This article by Premiumsoccertips will review the great players with assists that have left an indelible legacy in football history.

List of the 10 players with the most assists in football history

Here is a list of the 10 players with the most assists in the history of global football. Note that these figures are up to date at the time of writing, and many of the players on the list are still in excellent form.

1. Ferenc Puskas (404 assists)

The annual FIFA Puskas Award for the best goal is not only a recognition of outstanding moments on the pitch, but also a testament to Ferenc Puskas’s far-reaching influence on global football.

Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas is a symbol of creativity and excellence in football. He led Hungary to the 1954 World Cup final and played a key role in Real Madrid’s three European Cup victories. In addition to his excellent scoring ability, Puskas also stood out with an impressive number of assists, demonstrating his all-round ability and tactical genius.

During his 719-match career, Puskas scored 708 goals and made 404 assists, setting an offensive record that very few players can surpass. These numbers not only affirm his class but also explain why the name Puskas will forever be an immortal symbol in the history of world football.

2. Lionel Messi (377 assists)

Following Puskas’ great legacy is Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, who led his team to the World Cup and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has cemented his legendary status with impressive achievements, with a total of 361 assists for both club and country, and 820 goals – a number that continues to rise.

At 35, Messi is still at the top of his game. After moving to Inter Miami in the summer, he has attracted global attention in Major League Soccer (MLS), not only scoring goals but also providing world-class assists, earning admiration from fans everywhere. Messi’s influence has taken the American league to new heights, further increasing his fame.

With his current form, it is difficult to predict how many assists Messi will achieve by the end of his career. However, the records he has set will forever be part of the immortal legacy of world football.

3. Pele (369 assists)

Pele, considered one of the greatest legends in football history, was not only famous for his scoring ability but also for his tactical vision, intelligence, creativity and excellent finishing skills. These qualities helped him lead Brazil to three World Cup titles (1958, 1962, 1970), affirming his special place in the history of the king sport.

In addition to being Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Pele also left a deep mark with an impressive number of assists throughout his long career. In 659 matches for the club, he scored a spectacular 643 goals. In addition, Pele also had 369 assists, a number that only true legends can achieve. This achievement not only reflects Pele’s excellent scoring ability but also demonstrates his comprehensiveness and excellent tactical vision, creating an indelible legacy in the history of world football.

4. Johan Cruyff (358 assists)

Johan Cruyff, one of the pioneers of the modern possession-based style of football, has left a lasting mark on the history of world football. He was a major influence on Dutch football in the 20th century, particularly in developing the country’s famous “Total Football” style. During his time at Ajax, Cruyff won three Ballon d’Or awards in the 1970s, confirming his unparalleled talent and brilliance.

Aside from his personal achievements, Cruyff was also known for his great creativity on the pitch, not only at club level but also for his country. One of his greatest contributions to football was the invention of the “Cruyff Turn”, a unique technique that has become an integral part of the modern game. It is no surprise that one of the greatest players in football history, he had a total of 358 assists throughout his career – an impressive number that reflects Cruyff’s creativity and immense influence.

5. Thomas Muller (302 assists)

Thomas Muller, while sometimes overlooked by the big names, is one of the best players in German and Bayern Munich football history. Known as the “Raumdeuter” (explorer of space), Muller has a unique ability to be in the right place at the right time to make crucial assists or score goals. This style of play has not only helped Bayern Munich dominate the Bundesliga for a decade, but has also made him an integral part of the club’s squad.

With his sharp reading of the game and impressive link-up play, Muller has provided over 300 assists for both Germany and Bayern Munich throughout his career. Now 33, he is partnering England captain Harry Kane at Bayern Munich, and is likely to continue his excellent form for years to come. This combination will certainly create many new opportunities for Muller to continue building on his great legacy.

6. Luis Suarez (293 assists)

During his peak years, especially at Liverpool and Barcelona, ​​the talented Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez established himself as one of the best players in the world. With his superb technique, impressive dribbling ability, sharp tactical vision and exquisite finishing, Suarez was a constant threat to top defenders. These qualities not only helped him score goals but also create countless chances for his teammates, which is clearly demonstrated by the impressive number of assists he has managed.

Suarez currently plays for Brazilian club Gremio, where he continues to show impressive form and constantly increases his assist tally. With his creativity and excellent game-reading ability, it is entirely possible that he will surpass the 300-assist mark before he retires. As his career continues, Suarez will surely continue to leave unforgettable marks in football history.

7. Luis Figo (283 assists)

Portuguese star Luis Figo is second only to Lionel Messi in La Liga assists, an impressive tally that reflects his influence during his time in Spain. Figo shocked the football world when he moved from Barcelona to Real Madrid in the summer of 2000, a controversial move that attracted a lot of attention from the public and media.

However, it was not just this sensational transfer that made Figo’s career memorable. He was a talented player with excellent playmaking ability, racking up a total of 283 assists in his career, not only for Portugal but also for big clubs such as Barcelona, ​​Real Madrid, Sporting CP and Inter Milan. Figo stood out not only for his individual technique and creativity on the field but also as a great inspiration for many generations of players, especially Cristiano Ronaldo, who later became a Portuguese football legend.

8. Ryan Giggs (277 assists)

A talented winger with an accurate cross, intelligent movement and excellent passing skills, Ryan Giggs has left a deep mark on Manchester United’s history. After retiring in 2014, Giggs left a great legacy at the club, with 13 Premier League titles – an achievement that no one has been able to surpass in the history of this competition. In addition, he won four FA Cups, two League Cups and two Champions Leagues, affirming his place among the best English players of all time.

Giggs is also known for his excellent ability to create, with a record 162 assists in the Premier League to date. Throughout his long career, he has had a total of 277 assists, an extremely impressive record that demonstrates his creativity and excellent tactical vision. Giggs’ contributions not only helped Manchester United become a leading football force but also cemented his legacy as an irreplaceable legend in the club’s history.

9. Cristiano Ronaldo (268 assists)

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest goalscorers in football history, has had an incredible career change. Before moving from Manchester United to Real Madrid and developing into a super “number 9”, Ronaldo was a creative player who played a key role in creating chances for his teammates and building up the team’s attacking play.

With 268 assists throughout his career, Ronaldo is not only known for his excellent scoring ability but also his great ability to create. He currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he continues to improve his assist tally. This has been further facilitated by the addition of European stars like Marcelo Brozovic and Sadio Mane, who have helped Ronaldo maintain his high form and continue to expand his assist tally.

10. Angel Di Maria (259 assists)

Ángel Di María played a key role in Argentina’s victory at the 2022 World Cup, scoring in the 36th minute of the final to seal a historic victory for his side. It was a pivotal moment in Di María’s career and a reflection of his influence in big games. Throughout his career, especially at clubs such as PSG, Real Madrid and Benfica, Di María has been a creative force, contributing greatly to attacking play and making decisive passes.

At 35, Di María continues to play in the Portuguese league and maintains a consistent form at international level. It is therefore no surprise that he will continue to improve his performance in the future, possibly moving further up the list of players with impressive assist numbers. With his outstanding creativity, Di María remains one of the most remarkable players in world football.

Conclusion

The list of “Best Assists of All Time” not only recognizes players with outstanding creativity but also demonstrates their comprehensiveness and influence in football. Legends such as Ferenc Puskas, Lionel Messi and Pele not only stand out for their individual talent but also demonstrate their excellent ability to support their teammates. Although times have changed, these records will always be great marks in football history. With their current form, these players can continue to improve their achievements, contributing to the continuous development of the king sport.

See more: List of top 10 Serie A top goal scorers