Fans debate World Cup legends following The Independent’s top 50 list
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 12:51 PM
Last updated Jun 2, 2026
Debate has erupted among fans regarding The Independent's ranking of the top 50 World Cup players as readers express their own views and selections. Many fans advocate for Pelé as the greatest, while there’s notable contention surrounding Lionel Messi’s placement in the discussion. Criticism targets the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo from the list, with several readers voicing frustrations over omissions and arguing for the inclusion of players like Johan Cruyff, Zinedine Zidane, and Kenny Dalglish. Fans are encouraged to participate by putting forth their personal top choices in an ongoing dialogue about the greatest players in World Cup history.
- •The Independent’s top 50 World Cup players sparked widespread debate among fans.
- •Many fans endorse Pelé as the top player, with mixed opinions on others.
- •Criticism surfaces over Messi's ranking and Ronaldo's absence from the list.
- •Readers suggest various players they feel were overlooked in the rankings.
- •Conversations continue as fans submit their own top selections.
- 12:51 PMYahoo Sports — Voices: Fans pick their own World Cup legends after The Independent’s top 50 sparks debate
"YOUR VIEWS: In response to our World Cup top 50, readers have been debating the rankings, questioning omissions and putting forward their own picks for the game’s greatest players
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