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 accurate at the time of writing, with many of the players on this list still at the peak of their powers. 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, but Puskas is also recognized as the player with the most assists in football history, demonstrating his all-round ability and excellent tactical vision.
Ferenc Puskas, with a career spanning 719 matches, etched his name into football history with an astounding record of 708 goals and 404 assists. These exceptional statistics not only highlight his incredible talent but also explain why Puskas remains an eternal symbol of excellence in world football. His ability to score and create opportunities for his teammates was unparalleled, making him a legend whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.
2. Lionel Messi (377 assists)
Following in Puskas’ footsteps is Lionel Messi, who has solidified his place among the greatest footballers of all time. The Argentine captain, who led his country to a World Cup victory, has accumulated 361 assists throughout his illustrious career, in addition to his remarkable 820 goals, a figure that keeps growing. Messi’s combination of vision, creativity, and finishing has made him a force in both club and international football, ensuring his place in the annals of football history alongside the very best.
At the age of 35, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. After joining Inter Miami in the summer, he drew unprecedented global attention to Major League Soccer (MLS), where he not only scored goals but also provided world-class assists, earning admiration from fans worldwide. Messi’s influence has elevated the American league to new heights, further cementing his reputation.
Given his current form, it is difficult to predict how many assists Messi will accumulate by the end of his career. What is certain is that the records he sets will leave a lasting 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.
Pele, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, not only dazzled with his remarkable goal-scoring ability but also with an impressive tally of assists over the course of his legendary career. In 659 club appearances, he scored a phenomenal 643 goals. On top of that, Pele registered 369 assists, a feat that few players can match. This remarkable achievement not only highlights his prowess in front of goal but also showcases his all-around skill and tactical intelligence, cementing his place as a footballing icon and leaving behind a timeless legacy in the sport.
4. Johan Cruyff (358 assists)
Johan Cruyff, a key architect of modern possession-based football, left a lasting impact on the game. His vision and influence in shaping the "Total Football" style were pivotal, particularly within Dutch football. Cruyff’s brilliance was recognized with three Ballon d'Or awards in the 1970s while at Ajax, further affirming his extraordinary talent and contribution to football history. His legacy continues to resonate with teams and players who admire the fluid, dynamic style of play he championed.
In addition to his achievements, Cruyff is also remembered for his immense creativity on the pitch, both for his club and his country. One of his greatest contributions to football was the creation of the famous "Cruyff Turn," a technical move that has become an integral part of modern football. It is no surprise that the Dutchman has accumulated a total of 358 assists throughout his career, an impressive number that reflects his influence and 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 sharp footballing intelligence and exceptional ability to link up play, Thomas Muller has amassed over 300 assists for both Germany and Bayern Munich during his illustrious career. At 33, Muller continues to partner with England captain Harry Kane at Bayern Munich, and there is little doubt that he will maintain his impressive form in the seasons ahead. This dynamic duo promises to generate even more opportunities, allowing Muller to further build on his already remarkable legacy.
6. Luis Suarez (293 assists)
Similarly, Luis Suarez, particularly during his peak years at Liverpool and Barcelona, established himself as one of the world’s finest players. Known for his intricate footwork, exceptional dribbling, keen attacking vision, and clinical finishing, Suarez was a constant threat to top defenders. These qualities enabled him not only to score goals but also to set up countless opportunities for his teammates, as reflected in his impressive tally of assists throughout his career.
Currently, Suarez plays for the Brazilian club Gremio, where he continues to perform at a high level and gradually improve his assist record. With his creativity and excellent tactical vision, it is no surprise that he could surpass the 300-assist milestone before officially retiring. As his career continues, Suarez will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on 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.
Luis Figo’s career is unforgettable, not just because of his high-profile move to Real Madrid but because of his undeniable talent and vision on the field. With a remarkable 283 assists throughout his career, Figo made a significant impact not only for Portugal but also at top clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sporting CP, and Inter Milan. His skill and creativity were exceptional, but Figo also served as an inspiration to future generations of players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who would go on to become Portugal’s greatest footballer.
8. Ryan Giggs (277 assists)
Ryan Giggs etched his name in history as a Manchester United legend, known for his versatility, exceptional crossing, intelligent movement, and superb passing. Having retired in 2014, Giggs left behind an unparalleled legacy at the club, with 13 Premier League titles, more than any other player in the competition's history. His trophy haul also includes four FA Cups, two League Cups, and two Champions League titles, solidifying his place as one of the greatest English players of all time.
Giggs also stood out for his ability to provide high-quality assists, demonstrated by his record of 162 Premier League assists to date. Throughout his career, he made a total of 277 assists, an impressive record 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 icon.
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 a total of 268 assists throughout his career, Cristiano Ronaldo has not only been recognized for his exceptional finishing ability but also for his remarkable playmaking skills. Currently playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo continues to enhance his assist record, aided by the arrival of fellow European stars like Marcelo Brozovic and Sadio Mane. These additions have further supported his creative role, allowing him to maintain his impressive form and expand his assist tally.
10. Angel Di Maria (259 assists)
Angel Di Maria has proven to be an influential player throughout his career, particularly in key moments such as his crucial goal in the 2022 World Cup final, which helped Argentina secure victory. Having played for top clubs like PSG, Real Madrid, and Benfica, Di Maria has consistently been a vital creative force, contributing with key assists and helping to drive the attacking play for both club and country. His ability to provide decisive passes has solidified his place as one of the most influential wingers of his generation.
At 35, Di Maria continues to play in the Portuguese league and maintains a consistent form at the international level. Therefore, it is no surprise that he will continue to improve his achievements soon, 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.
