In the history of football, not only beautiful goals make the names of legends, but excellent assists also play an important role in creating the mark of players. "Top assist all time" - the list of players with the most assists in history, proves that the ability to see and create scoring opportunities is no less important than scoring. Names such as Ferenc Puskas, Lionel Messi or Pele not only stand out for their scoring records but also for their tactical vision and creativity on the field. In this article, Win Betting Tips will review the greatest players with impressive assists, creating an immortal legacy in the world of football.
Top 10 players with the most assists in football history
Below, you will find a list of the 10 players who have created the most scoring chances in the history of world football. It is important to note that these figures are at the time of writing, with many of the players on this list still at the peak of their powers.
1. Ferenc Puskas (404 assists)
The fact that FIFA presents the annual Puskas Award to the best goal of the calendar year is not only a way to celebrate outstanding moments on the pitch, but also a testament to the enormous influence Ferenc Puskas had on football globally.
Ferenc Puskas, the legendary Hungarian striker, is an icon of excellence and creativity in football. He led the Hungarian national team to the 1954 World Cup final and was a key figure in Real Madrid's three European Cup wins. Not only was he a great striker, Puskas is also recognized as the player with the most assists in football history, demonstrating his all-round ability and excellent tactical vision.
In a career spanning 719 matches, Puskas scored 708 goals and made 404 assists, an attacking record that few players can match. These numbers not only prove his class but also explain why Puskas' name has become an immortal symbol in the history of world football.
2. Lionel Messi (377 assists)
Following Puskas’ legacy is Lionel Messi, the captain who led Argentina to the World Cup and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history. Over his illustrious career, Messi has cemented his legendary status with impressive numbers. He has provided a total of 361 assists for club and country, in addition to scoring 820 goals — a tally that continues to rise.
At 35, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. After joining Inter Miami in the summer, he brought unprecedented global attention to Major League Soccer (MLS), where he not only scored goals but also created world-class assists, earning admiration from fans around the world. Messi’s influence has taken the American league to new heights, further cementing his reputation.
With his current form, it is difficult to predict how many assists Messi will have at the end of his career. What is certain is that the records he sets will leave an immortal legacy in football history.
3. Pele (369 assists)
Pele, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, was not only known for his goalscoring ability but also for his vision, intelligence, creativity and superb finishing skills. These qualities helped Pele lead Brazil to three World Cup titles (1958, 1962, 1970), cementing his place in world football history.
In addition to being Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Pele also made a strong mark with his impressive number of assists throughout his long career. In 659 club matches, he scored an impressive 643 goals. In addition, Pele made a total of 369 assists, a number that only true legends can achieve. This achievement not only reflects his outstanding scoring ability but also proves Pele's comprehensiveness and excellent tactical vision, an immortal legacy in world football.
4. Johan Cruyff (358 assists)
As one of the main architects of the modern possession-based style of play favoured by most European teams, Johan Cruyff left an indelible mark on football history. He was a hugely influential figure in Dutch football throughout the 20th century, particularly in developing the country's famous "Total Football" style. Cruyff won three Ballon d'Or awards in the 1970s during his time at Ajax, demonstrating his unrivalled talent and brilliance.
In addition to his individual achievements, Cruyff is also remembered for his great creativity on the pitch, not only for his club but also for his country. One of his greatest contributions to football was the invention of the famous "Cruyff Turn", a technical move that has become an integral part of modern football. It is no surprise that the Dutchman, the greatest player of all time, has a total of 358 assists throughout his career, an impressive number that reflects his influence and great creativity.
5. Thomas Muller (302 assists)
Thomas Muller, though sometimes overlooked, is one of the greatest players in German and Bayern Munich football history. Known as the “Raumdeuter” (space explorer), Muller has a unique ability to appear in key positions at the right time to make decisive passes or score goals. His style of play has not only helped Bayern Munich dominate the Bundesliga for a decade, but has also made him an indispensable member of the club’s squad.
With his intelligent reading of the game and excellent link-up play, Muller has recorded over 300 assists for both Germany and Bayern Munich throughout his career. At 33, he is currently partnering England captain Harry Kane at Bayern, and is likely to continue his impressive form in the years to come. This combination will certainly create new opportunities for Muller to expand his great legacy.
6. Luis Suarez (293 assists)
During his peak years, especially at Liverpool and Barcelona, the talented Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez proved himself to be one of the best players in the world. With his intricate footwork, excellent dribbling ability, sharp attacking vision and clinical finishing ability, Suarez has always been a nightmare for the best defenders. These qualities have not only helped him score a series of goals but also create countless chances for his teammates, which is clearly demonstrated by his impressive number of assists.
Currently, Suarez plays for Brazilian club Gremio, where he continues to maintain his high level of performance and gradually consolidate his assist record. With his creativity and excellent tactical vision, it is no surprise that he can surpass the 300 assist mark before officially retiring. With his career still going on, Suarez will certainly continue to leave memorable marks in the world of football.
7. Luis Figo (283 assists)
Portuguese star Luis Figo is second only to Lionel Messi in La Liga assists, an impressive feat that demonstrates his influence during his playing years in Spain. Figo shook up the football world when he moved from Barcelona to Real Madrid in the summer of 2000, a move that was controversial and drew attention from all corners.
However, it was not just that sensational move that made Figo’s career memorable. He was a gifted player, with an excellent ability to create, with 283 assists throughout his career, not only for Portugal but also for big clubs such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sporting CP and Inter Milan. Figo not only stood out for his individual technique and creativity on the pitch but was also a great inspiration for generations of players, especially Cristiano Ronaldo, who later became Portugal's greatest player.
8. Ryan Giggs (277 assists)
A versatile winger with excellent crossing ability, intelligent movement and superb passing skills, Ryan Giggs has gone down in history as a Manchester United legend. After retiring in 2014, Giggs left an indelible legacy at the club, with 13 Premier League titles – more than any other player in the history of the competition. He also won four FA Cups, two League Cups and two Champions Leagues, cementing his place as one of the greatest English players of all time.
Giggs also stood out for his ability to provide high-quality assists, which was demonstrated by his record 162 Premier League assists to date. Throughout his career, he made a total of 277 assists, an extremely impressive record and one that showcased his creativity and excellent tactical vision. Giggs' contributions helped Manchester United become a major force in world football and cemented his legacy as an irreplaceable legend.
9. Cristiano Ronaldo (268 assists)
Cristiano Ronaldo, known as one of the greatest goalscorers in football history, has had an impressive career transformation. Before moving from Manchester United to Real Madrid and gradually forming the image of a super "number 9", Ronaldo was primarily a creative player, playing an important role in creating chances for his teammates and helping build the team's attacking play.
With 268 assists throughout his career, Ronaldo has not only made his mark with his excellent finishing ability but also with his great ability to create. Currently, he plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he continues to improve his assist record. This was made even easier when Al-Nassr signed other European stars such as Marcelo Brozovic and Sadio Mane, who helped Ronaldo continue his impressive form and extend his assist record.
10. Angel Di Maria (259 assists)
Angel Di Maria played a key role in Argentina's victory at the 2022 World Cup, scoring in the 36th minute of the final to help his side to a historic victory. It was a pivotal moment in Di Maria's career, and a testament to his influence in important matches. Throughout his career, especially at clubs such as PSG, Real Madrid and Benfica, Di Maria has been a key creative force, contributing to the attacking play and providing key passes.
At 35, Di Maria continues to play in the Portuguese league and maintains a consistent form at international level. Therefore, it is no surprise that he will continue to improve his achievements in the near future, possibly moving further up the list of players with impressive assist numbers. With his great creativity, Di Maria remains one of the most remarkable players in world football.
Conclusion
The "Top assist all time" list not only recognizes players with great creativity but also reflects their comprehensiveness and influence in football. Names like Ferenc Puskas, Lionel Messi or Pele are all symbols of the combination of individual talent and the ability to benefit teammates. Although time passes, these records will still exist as a testament to the greatness in football. With their current form, these players can continue to improve their achievements, contributing to the continuous development of the king sport.
