50 Best Premier League Players of All Time, Ranked

These past, present and future stars of the Premier League have created history and won our hearts.

The Premier League launched in 1992, and many great soccer players have starred at the highest level of English football. But which player is the greatest in EPL history? It’s not an easy question to answer.

Since the beginning, 49 clubs have competed in the Premier League, with 20 teams playing 38 games every season from August through May to determine a champion. Six clubs have won the title: Manchester United (13), Chelsea (5), Manchester City (4), Arsenal (3), Blackburn Rovers (1) and Leicester City (1).

Thousands of players have appeared in matches and made contributions to their clubs. Some became global superstars. Others became heroes and inspirations to their peers, future footballers and fans. These are the best Premier League players of all time.

50. Gareth Bale

Tottenham forward Gareth Bale, right, controls the ball against Aston Villa during a Premier League match in 2012. Lefteris Pitarakis / AP Photo

Country: Wales

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2007-14

EPL teams: Tottenham Hotspur

Career EPL stats: 42 goals, 20 assists in 146 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Gareth Bale was a superstar even before transferring to Real Madrid in 2014. During his time with the Tottenham Spurs, he transformed from a left back to a solid winger and surprised everyone with his success.

Bale had a knack for creating some incredible goals and even scoring them. His success didn’t get unnoticed as he caught the eye of Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid.

Despite not winning a league title during his time with the Spurs, he became one of the best forwards in Premier League history.

49. Edwin Van Der Sar

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar makes a save against Chelsea during a Champions League match in 2011. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Netherlands

Position: Goalkeeper

Experience in EPL: 2001-11

EPL teams: Fulham (2001-05), Manchester United (2005-11)

Career EPL stats: 132 clean sheets in 313 appearances

EPL titles: 4 (2007, 2008, 2009, 2011)

Bottom line: Before David de Gea guarded Manchester United’s goal, Edvin van der Sar was the ultimate shotstopper.

Van Der Sar was a loyal servant to the Red Devils and impressed fans and critics alike with his heroics behind goal. He’s inspired young and aspiring goalkeepers and is a true United legend —one of the greatest goalkeepers the Premier League has ever seen.

He won four Premier League titles, the 2008 UEFA Champions League and appeared in the 2009 and 2011 UEFA Champions League finals against FC Barcelona.

48. Nemanja Vidic

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic heads the ball against Bursaspor during a Champions League match in 2010. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: Serbia

Position: Defender

Experience in EPL: 2005-14

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 95 clean sheets, 15 goals, 3 assists in 211 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (2007, 2008, 2009. 2011, 2013)

Bottom line: Manchester United has had some of the best defenders in the Premier League, and Nemanja Vidic is one of them.

Vidic, along with Rio Ferdinand, formed a strong shield against some of the Premier League’s top attacking sides during their time.

Close to 100 cleans sheets is an admirable record and shows how dedicated Vidic was to keeping opposing forwards at bay and giving his goalkeepers an extra cushion.

47. Robin Van Persie

Manchester United forward Robin van Persie, right, scores a goal against Aston Villa in 2013. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: Netherlands

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2004-15

EPL teams: Arsenal (2004-12), Manchester United (2012-15)

Career EPL stats: 144 goals, 53 assists in 280 appearances

EPL titles: 1 (2013)

Bottom line: Robin Van Persie was one of the Premier League’s finest forwards. He scored plenty of goals for Arsenal, but his Premier League title ambitions were never met.

After Sir Alex Ferguson transferred him to the “Theater of Dreams” — Old Trafford — Van Persie became an even better striker. In his first season with Manchester United, he was a key part of Sir Alex’s squad that won the Premier League title in 2012-13.

That was Van Persie’s only Premier League title win, but he left a lasting mark on the league.

46. Michael Carrick

Manchester United defender Michael Carrick, left, controls the ball against Paris Saint-Germain during an International Champions Cup match in 2015. Kamil Krzaczynski / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1998-present

EPL teams: West Ham (1998-2003), Tottenham Hotspur (2003-06), Manchester United (2006- present)

Career EPL stats: 24 goals, 40 assists in 481 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (2007, 2008, 2009. 2011, 2013)

Bottom line: English midfielder Michael Carrick spent most of his best years with Manchester United. He now is one of the club’s most loyal and senior players and is an inspiration to the club’s younger stars.

Carrick also has captained the club and plays a leadership role in the midfield.

With United, he’s won the Premier League title five times, two EFL Cups, an FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League and Europa League wins. That’s a lot of accomplishments in 12 years of wearing the red jersey.

45. Sadio Mane

Liverpool forward Sadio Mane, left, fights for the ball against Tottenham during the Champions League final match between in 2019. Felipe Dana / AP Photo

Country: Senegal

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2014- present

EPL teams: Southampton (2014-16), Liverpool (2016-present)

Career EPL stats: 66 goals, 22 assists in 159 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Sadio Mane has turned into one of the Premier League’s top forwards while playing for Liverpool. He can deliver goals out of nowhere and even managed to score against Real Madrid in the 2018 UEFA Champions League final, which Liverpool lost 3-1.

He is excellent on the wings with a fiery pace that can outrun some of the best defenders in the Premier League. Mane also works well with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino up front. This three-pronged attack is an essential part of Jurgen Klopp’s aresenal.

44. Roberto Firmino

Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino, center, controls the ball against Tottenham during the 2019 Champions League final match. Felipe Dana / AP Photo

Country: Brazil

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2015- present

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 48 goals, 27 assists in 137 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Roberto Firmino is a classy player. The Brazilian striker forms the front of Liverpool’s attack with with Egyptian Mohamed Salah and Senegalese Sadio Mane.

Under Jurgen Klopp, these three players have proven to be some of the best forwards in the Premier League. Thanks to their skills and goals, Liverpool almost won the 2019 season title, losing to Manchester City by one point.

Firmino is brilliant and creative and has a sharp eye for finding the goal. It’s great to see such young talent blossom at Liverpool.

43. Philippe Coutinho

Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho, center, fights for the ball against Everton in a 2016 match. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: Brazil

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2012-18

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 41 goals, 35 assists in 152 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Philippe Coutinho was one of Liverpool’s stars in the attack during his six seasons at Merseyside.

Under Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp, Coutinho became a formidable force up front. He worked with fellow superstars such as Luis Suarez, Daniel Sturridge and later Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah to create beautiful goals.

Coutinhoa moved on to Barcelona, joining Suarez, and continues to be strong in front of the goal.

42. Harry Kane

Tottenham’s Harry Kane, right, kicks the ball during the Champions League final match against Liverpool in 2019. Francisco Seco / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2009- present

EPL teams: Tottenham Hotspur

Career EPL stats: 125 goals, 18 assist in 181 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Tottenham has experienced a resurgence in the Premier League thanks to Harry Kane, whose success got him the captaincy for the English national team.

Kane has been phenomenal in the Premier League, consistently ranking as one of the top goal scorers every season. Although he is not the fastest player, his finishing is sublime.

He’s done well for the Spurs, and his heroics led the club to the UEFA Champions League final in 2019.

41. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Manchester United forward Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, left, in action against Lazio during a UEFA Super Cup final match in 1999. Michel Euler / AP Photo

Country: Norway

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1996-2008

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 91 goals, 37 assists in 235 appearances

EPL titles: 6 (1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007)

Bottom line: Young soccer fans may only know of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the Manchester United manager, but in the mid 1990s and early 2000s, this man was a force to reckon with in the red jersey.

He played with both David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo in their respective eras, and won the Premier League title six times and the UEFA Champions League on two occasions with the Red Devils.

Solskjaer’s impact on the club was more than the goals he scored. He’s a Manchester United legend — and also one in the Premier League.

40. Freddie Ljungberg

Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg in action against Porto during a Champions League match in 2006. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Sweden

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1998-2008

EPL teams: Arsenal (1998-2007), West Ham United (2007-08)

Career EPL stats: 48 goals, 29 assists in 241 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2002, 2004)

Bottom line: There was a time when Arsenal had some of the greatest players in the Premier League, and one of them was Swede Freddie Ljungberg.

His first taste of Premier League success came in the 2001-02 season, when he was named “Player of the Season.” Along with legends such as Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires, Ljungberg became a star for Arsenal. He also was part of the 2003-04 “Invincibles” with the same legends that won the Premier League without a losing a match all season.

Despite spending his final Premier League season at West Ham, Ljungberg always will be remembered for his career with Arsenal.

39. Xabi Alonso

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, left, celebrates after scoring a goal against AC Milan during the UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul, Turkey. Luca Bruno / AP Photo

Country: Spain

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2004-09

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 14 goals, 17 assists in 143 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Xabi Alonso was one of Liverpool’s best midfielders in the early-to-mid 2000s and played a crucial role in Liverpool’s historical “Miracle of Istanbul” UEFA Champions League win in 2005.

Among former manager Rafa Benitez’s best players alongside forward Fernando Torres and defender Javier Mascherano, Alonso formed the heart of the midfield with former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Thanks to Alonso, Gerrard, and Torres, Liverpool were runners-up in an epic season in 2008-09, brilliantly beating archrivals Manchester United and Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid in the same week.

38. Rio Ferdinand

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand celebrates after scoring a goal against Swansea City in 2013. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Defender

Experience in EPL: 1995-2015

EPL teams: West Ham United (1995- 2001), Leeds United (2000-02), Manchester United (2002-14), Queens Park Rangers (2014-15)

Career EPL stats: 189 clean sheets, 11 goals, 8 assists in 504 appearances

EPL titles: 6 (2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011. 2013)

Bottom line: Rio Ferdinand was one of the Premier League’s finest defenders in the new millennium.

Most of his success came under Sir Alex Ferguson when he played for Manchester United. Ferdinand won multiple Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League crown and other domestic silverware.

A highly decorated defender, he was a rock in the heart of United’s defense alongside teammate Nemanja Vidic.

37. Ruud Van Nistelrooy

Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, right, avoids a tackle against Ajax during a match in the Amsterdam Tournament in 2002. Peter Dejong / AP Photo

Country: Netherlands

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2001-06

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 95 goals, 14 assists in 150 appearances

EPL titles: 1 (2003)

Bottom line: Manchester United has been home to several great forwards since 1992, including Ruud van Nistelrooy.

He spent five years at Old Trafford — playing with legends like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Cristiano Ronaldo — and scored 95 goals. Van Nistelrooy also has a Premier League title to his name as proof of his excellence.

He later moved to Real Madrid, but his time with the Red Devils was special.

36. Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah celebrates after scoring a goal for Liverpool against Tottenham during the Champions League final match in 2019. Felipe Dana / AP Photo

Country: Egypt

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2013- present

EPL teams: Chelsea (2013-16), Liverpool (2017- present)

Career EPL stats: 56 goals, 19 assists in 87 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Egyptian sensation Mohamed Salah, known as the “Egyptian King,” is one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards.

When his career with Liverpool is over, he’s sure to be ranked alongside Michael Owen, Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez as one of the Reds’ greatest scorers.

Jurgen Klopp has transformed him into a goal-scoring powerhouse. In the 2018-19 season, he won the Premier League’s Golden Boot.

35. David Silva

Manchester City midfielder David Silva, left, controls the ball against Watford during the English FA Cup final in 2019. Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo

Country: Spain

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2010- present

EPL teams: Manchester City

Career EPL stats: 54 goals, 83 assists in 282 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Since 2010, David Silva has proven to be a solid midfielder for Manchester City. He can play up front behind the striker as well as lead the midfield.

Silva and Yaya Toure were the anchors in Manchester City’s stellar midfield. Silva tasted success in the form of multiple Premier League titles, including the recent 2018-19 season.

He’s superb, and his link-up play with forward Sergio Aguero was beautiful.

34. Teddy Sheringham

Manchester United forward Teddy Sheringham, left, dribbles against Sturm Graz during a Champions League match in 1999. Rudi Blaha / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1992- 2007

EPL teams: Nottingham Forest (1992-93), Tottenham Hotspur (1992-97, 2001-03), Manchester United (1998-2001), Portsmouth (2003-04), West Ham United (2005-07)

Career EPL stats: 146 goals, 76 assists in 418 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (1999, 2000, 2001)

Bottom line: Teddy Sheringham won the Golden Boot in the first Premier League season as a forward for Nottingham Forest. And he never looked back.

Sheringham then moved to the Tottenham Hotspurs, where he spent a majority of his Premier League career. He was the Spurs twice, before and after his three seasons with Manchester United. With the Red Devils, he won three Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 1998-99.

A formidable striker, he scored 146 goals — quite a feat considering the era he played in — and remains a legend for both Tottenham and Manchester United.

33. Arjen Robben

Chelsea midfielder Arjen Robben, left, challenges for the ball against Levski Sofia during a Champions League match in 2006. Darko Vojinovic / AP Photo

Country: Netherlands

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2004-08

EPL teams: Chelsea

Career EPL stats: 15 goals, 16 assists in 67 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2005, 2006)

Bottom line: Prior to his time at Bayern Munich, Dutch midfielder Arjen Robben played in the Premier League with Chelsea. In five seasons with the Blues, Robben won two Premier League titles and stood out as one of their best midfielders of that time.

His success inspired him to greater success in the Bundesliga.

But his contributions to Chelsea will never be forgotten and make him one of the best players ever in Premier League history.

32. Mesut Ozil

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil, right, duels for the ball against Chelsea during a Premier League match in 2018. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Germany

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2013-present

EPL teams: Arsenal

Career EPL stats: 32 goals, 52 assists in 166 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: German midfielder Mesut Ozil only has played for Arsenal during his time in the Premier League.

Arsene Wenger brought Ozil to the Gunners in 2013 after earning his reputation with Real Madrid, and since then, he has been a formidable force in the Gunners’ starting eleven.

Ozil has a commanding presence on the field, and his loyalty to Arsenal is unquestionable.

31. Robbie Keane

Robbie Keane celebrates scoring a goal for Aston Villa against Newcastle during a Premier League match in 2012. Scott Heppell / AP Photo

Country: Ireland

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1999- 2012

EPL teams: Coventry City (1999-2000), Leeds United (2000-03), Tottenham Hotspur (2002-08, 2008-12), Liverpool (2008-09)

Career EPL stats: 126 goals, 37 assists in 349 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: To play for four different Premier League clubs and scored 126 goals is no small feat. In fact, only 13 players have scored more goals than Robbie Keane in Premier League history.

While Keane had better success with Tottenham than any of the other clubs he played with, he was one of the best forwards of his time and has inspired many young players.

30. Sami Hyppia

Sami Hyppia playing for Liverpool in 2005. Alii h / English Wikipedia

Country: Finland

Position: Defender

Experience in EPL: 1999-2009

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 125 clean sheets, 22 goals, 8 assists in 318 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Liverpool has not won any Premier League titles, but 20 years ago, it was among England’s top four clubs. And Sami Hyppia was one of the best Reds players from that era.

Hyppia was part of the club’s historic “Miracle of Istanbul” UEFA Champions League final win in 2005, and his defensive skills are legendary at Anfield.

While Liverpool remains one of England’s big clubs, defenders like Hyppia are a rarity in today’s modern game.

29. Ashley Cole

Arsenal defender Ashley Cole, right, takes the ball away from Liverpool during an English Football Association Community Shield match in 2002. Adam Butler / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Defender

Experience in EPL: 1998-2014

EPL teams: Arsenal (1998-2007), Chelsea (2007-14)

Career EPL stats: 147 clean sheets in 385 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (2002, 2004, 2010)

Bottom line: For 16 years in the Premier League, Ashley Cole was part of London’s two big clubs, Arsenal and Chelsea, respectively.

During his time with Arsenal, Cole won the Premier League title in 2002 and later in 2004 as part of the legendary “Invincibles” side, featuring fellow legends Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira.

During Cole’s time with Chelsea, he won the Premier League title in 2010 and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Champions League in 2012, which has gone down as a historic win for the Blues. A season later, he also won the UEFA Europa League.

As a defender, his 147 clean sheets in 385 appearances are exemplary and makes him one of Premier League’s best defenders of all time.

28. Robert Pires

Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires, right, celebrates scoring a goal against Chelsea in 2004. Max Nash / AP Photo

Country: France

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2001-06, 2010-11

EPL teams: Arsenal (2001-06), Newcastle (2010-11)

Career EPL stats: 62 goals, 41 assists in 198 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2002, 2004)

Bottom line: Robert Pires was one of Arsene Wenger’s “Invincibles” in Arsenal’s unbeaten 2003-04 season.

Pires became an Arsenal legend playing alongside other stars such as Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, and Dennis Bergkamp, among others.

Despite not winning another Premier League title, Pires was a stellar midfielder.

27. Eden Hazard

Eden Hazard celebrates scoring a goal for Chelsea against Arsenal in 2019. Luca Bruno / AP Photo

Country: Belgium

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2012- 2019

EPL teams: Chelsea

Career EPL stats: 85 goals, 54 assists in 245 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2015, 2017)

Bottom line: Eden Hazard was incredible with Chelsea, playing various positions, including up front and in the middle of the pitch.

On the wings or behind the striker, Hazard was a master at creating chances and scoring wonderful goals, and in the current generation of Premier League stars, he was a top five player easily.

He was so good that he joined Real Madrid in June 2019 for £88.5 million ($111.4 million).

26. Andrew Cole

Fulham’s Andrew Cole, center, kicks the ball away in a 2005 match against Watford. Adam Butler / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1993- 2008

EPL teams: Newcastle (1993-95), Manchester United (1994-2002), Blackburn Rovers (2002-04), Fulham (2004-05), Manchester City (2005-07), Portsmouth (2006-07), Sunderland (2007-08)

Career EPL stats: 187 goals, 73 assists in 414 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001)

Bottom line: Andrew Cole spent a total of 15 years in the Premier League with seven different clubs. In his first season with Newcastle United in 1993, he won the Premier League Golden Boot, but his best time was the eight seasons spent at Manchester United.

As part of the Red Devils, he won the Premier League title on six different occasions and the UEFA Champions League in 1999. While not a part of the famed Manchester United Class of 1992, he did play with the likes of David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes.

Of the Premier League’s earliest stars, Cole was one of the glittering ones and ranks as one of the highest goal scorers of all time in the Premiership.

25. Peter Schmeichel

Manchester United goalie Peter Schmeichel celebrates with teammate Ronnie Johnsen after they beat Tottenham Hotspur to win the Premiership League at Manchester’s Old Trafford in 1999. Adam Butler / AP Photo

Country: Denmark

Position: Goalkeeper

Experience in EPL: 1991-99

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 128 clean sheets in 310 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1999)

Bottom line: The former Manchester United goalkeeper had some of the safest hands in net for his entire Premier League career. He also was one of the team’s longes-tenured keepers and inspired the likes of Edwin Van Der Sar.

Schmeichel made over 300 appearances with the Red Devils and won a handful of Premier League titles and even the UEFA Champions League in 1999 — the first United won.

He is yet to be topped and remains one of the Premier League’s greatest goalkeepers ever.

24. Petr Cech

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech, left, makes a save in front of Chelsea’s Eden Hazard during an English Premier League match in 2018. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Czech Republic

Position: Goalkeeper

Experience in EPL: 2004-present

EPL teams: Chelsea (2014-15), Arsenal (2015-present)

Career EPL stats: 202 clean sheets in 443 appearances

EPL titles: 4 (2005, 2006, 2010, 2015)

Bottom line: Petr Cech continues to be one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. His time with Chelsea and now Arsenal has proven that he can work with different managers, clubs and players.

His best time was with the Blues under former manager Jose Mourinho, and Cech won lots of UEFA Champions League and Premier League silverware between 2004 and 2015.

Despite his age (36), he has been excellent for Arsenal in the last three seasons. When he hangs up his gloves, his legacy will be on par with such luminaries as former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

23. Alan Shearer

Newcastle forward Alan Shearer, right, celebrates his goal against Bayer Leverkusen during a UEFA Champions League soccer match in 2003. Max Nash / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1992-2006

EPL teams: Blackburn Rovers (1992-96), Newcastle United (1996-2006)

Career EPL stats: 260 goals, 64 assists in 441 appearances

EPL titles: 1 (1995)

Bottom line: Alan Shearer has scored more goals in Premier League history than anyone. He was the first player to score 200 Premier League goals and is the only player to score 100 goals for two separate clubs: Blackburn (112) and Newcastle (148).

He is most famous for his decade in Newcastle, when he was perhaps its biggest star, and also became known as one of England’s finest forwards. In the star-studded 1990s, he represented Newcastle with class and pride and has been an inspiration for future English forwards.

22. Roy Keane

Manchester United’s Roy Keane, left, keeps the ball from Sparta Prague’s Tomas Sivok during a Champions League match at Old Trafford Stadium in 2004. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: Ireland

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1992-2005

EPL teams: Nottingham Forest (1992-93), Manchester United (1993-2005)

Career EPL stats: 39 goals, 33 assists in 366 appearances

EPL titles: 7 (1994, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003)

Bottom line: Roy Keane and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson may not have seen eye to eye on certain issues, but the former Red Devils captain is in a class of his own.

Keane served the Red Devils for the majority of his career and was one of their greatest midfielders, playing alongside David Beckham, Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Wayne Rooney and even Cristiano Ronaldo.

Keane won several Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League crown, and his contributions to United never will go unrecognized.

21. Gianfranco Zola

Gianfranco Zola, right, makes his Chelsea debut against the Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park in Blackburn in 1996. Paul Barker / AP Photo

Country: Italy

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1996-2003

EPL teams: Chelsea

Career EPL stats: 59 goals, 42 assists in 229 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Gianfranco Zola was one of Chelsea’s prized forwards between 1996 and 2003, averaging 0.26 goals per match and serving as the team’s top offensive weapon for several seasons.

Zola won a handful of silverware, including two FA Cup wins, but no Premier League title.

Still, Zola stands out as one of the best strikers in the Premier League in the 1990s.

20. Michael Owen

Stoke City’s Michael Owen, left, battles Chelsea’s Ashley Cole during a 2012 English Premier League match at Stamford Bridge in London. Sang Tan / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1996-2004, 2005-13

EPL teams: Liverpool (1996-2004), Newcastle (2005-09), Manchester United (2009-12), Stoke City (2012-13)

Career EPL stats: 150 goals, 31 assists in 326 appearances

EPL titles: 1 (2011)

Bottom line: Michael Owen at Liverpool was unstoppable. Despite an injury-stricken career, he was one of the best strikers to ever wear the red jersey.

Liverpool fans will remember his incredible goals and service. While they may forgive him for his unforgettable and short stint at Manchester United, he paved the way for future stars such as Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez.

19. John Terry

Chelsea’s John Terry, left, challenges Crystal Palace’s James McArthur for control of the ball during an English Premier League match in 2015. Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Defender

Experience in EPL: 1998-2018

EPL teams: Chelsea (1998-2017), Aston Villa (2017-18)

Career EPL stats: 42 goals, 12 assists, 214 clean sheets in 530 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (2005, 2006, 2010, 2015, 2017)

Bottom line: John Terry was with Chelsea for majority of his Premier League career and was one of the league’s best defenders. He captained Chelsea and later Aston Villa for an unforgettable season.

Terry was the rock in Chelsea’s defense and led the Blues to 311 wins in his career.

He also was a part of five Premier League championship teams and helped Chelsea win its first double (a Premier League title and FA Cup) in the 2009-10 season, becoming the third Premier League club to achieve this feat (Manchester United and Arsenal were the others).

18. Robbie Fowler

Robbie Fowler with Liverpool in 2007. Wikimedia

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1993-2008

EPL teams: Liverpool (1993-2001, 2005-07), Leeds United (2001-03), Manchester City (2002-06), Blackburn Rovers (2008)

Career EPL stats: 163 goals, 39 in 379 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Robbie Fowler is a Liverpool legend and ranks sixth in highest goals scored in the Premier League.

He scored 183 total goals for Liverpool (128 in the EPL), a fantastic number, and belongs in the conversation of elite goal scorers with Michael Owen, Fernando Torres, Luis Suarez, and current favorites Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

While unable to help Liverpool win titles, Fowler still is one of the best to play in front of the Kop.

17. Eric Cantona

Manchester United’s Eric Cantona, right and Liverpool’s Jason McAteer collide in mid air while fighting for the ball during the second half of the English FA Cup final at London’s Wembley Stadium Saturday May 11, 1996. Cantona went on to score the game’s only goal in the final minutes of the game. Manchester United won the FA Cup and the English Soccer League title for the second time in three years.(AP PHOTO/ Max Nash)

Country: France

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1992-97

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 70 goals, 56 assists in 156 appearances

EPL titles: 4 (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997)

Bottom line: Eric Cantona was one of Manchester United’s best forwards and caused a lot of havoc scoring incredible goals in the 1990s.

He contributed to Manchester United becoming a force in England and Europe under Sir Alex Ferguson.

When Cantona was on the pitch, the team won four Premier League title and two FA Cups.

16. Yaya Toure

Manchester City’s Yaya Toure, left, holds off Monaco’s Radamel Falcao during a Champions League match at Etihad Stadium in 2017. Dave Thompson / AP Photo

Country: Ivory Coast

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2010-18

EPL teams: Manchester City

Career EPL stats: 62 goals, 32 assists in 230 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (2012, 2014, 2018)

Bottom line: Yaya Toure is an experienced midfielder and served Manchester City well during his time there — helping the Citizens win three Premier League championships.

He was the the team’s anchor in midfield, orchestrating careful plays and creating assists for Manchester City’s top strike force.

While no longer at the Etihad Stadium, Toure will go down as one of the EPL greats.

#15: Cesc Fabregas

Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas unloads a shot on goal against Nottingham Forest during an FA Cup match in 2019. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Spain

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2003-11, 2014-19

EPL teams: Arsenal (2003-11), Chelsea (2014-19)

Career EPL stats: 50 goals, 111 assists in 350 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2015, 2017)

Bottom line: Cesc Fabregas was one of Arsenal’s leading talismans in the post-Invincibles era. With Samir Nasri and Robin Van Persie, Fabregas scored massive wins for the Gunners.

He is a versatile threat who can play up front and behind strikers, and has a abundance of talent.

He was a faithful servant to Arsenal until his departure to boyhood club FC Barcelona later in his career. He then returned to the Premier League and scored more goals for Chelsea.

14. Wayne Rooney

Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney, center, keeps the ball from Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard, right, during an English Premier League match at Old Trafford Stadium in 2014. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2002-18

EPL teams: Manchester United (2004-17), Everton (2002-04, 2017-18)

Career EPL stats: 208 goals, 103 assists in 491 appearances

EPL titles: 5 (2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013)

Bottom line: Englishman Wayne Rooney played with some of the league’s greatest players, especially during his time with Manchester United.

His bicycle-kick goal against Manchester City is hands down one of the best ever scored in the league.

He’s captained Manchester United and has finished incredible goals. He may not be the greatest forward from England, but when he wore the Red jersey, he was unstoppable.

13. Didier Drogba

Chelsea’s Didier Drogba, right, battles for a header with Crystal Palace’s Joe Ledley, center, and Damien Delaney in 2015. Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo

Country: Ivory Coast

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2004-12, 2014-15

EPL teams: Chelsea

Career EPL stats: 104 goals, 54 assists in 254 appearances

EPL titles: 4 (2005, 2006, 2010, 2015)

Bottom line: Didier Drogba in a Chelsea jersey was one of the strongest and fiercest strikers ever to grace the Premier League pitches.

At Stamford Bridge, he was feared, and defenses would shiver at the sight of him.

Drogba won the Premier League title, the UEFA Champions League and more in his time at Chelsea. His departure left a void that has yet to be filled.

12. Frank Lampard

Chelsea’s Frank Lampard celebrates after scoring a goal against Bayern Munich during a UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match in 2005. Adam Butler / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1995-2015

EPL teams: West Ham United (1995-2001), Chelsea (2001-14), Manchester City (2014-15)

Career EPL stats: 177 goals, 102 assists in 609 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (2005, 2006, 2010)

Bottom line: Frank Lampard is one of the finest midfielders ever produced in the Premier League.

His time with Chelsea was the highlight of his career as he won multiple league titles under Jose Mourinho and developed into a star, also winning the UEFA Champions League with the Blues.

In all competitions, Lampard scored 211 goals for Chelsea, a club record for highest goals, and anchored the team for several successful seasons with John Terry and Didier Drogba.

Lampard later played for a short time with Manchester City and even scored against his former club.

11. Luis Suarez

Liverpool’s Luis Suarez keeps the ball from Swansea City’s Nathan Dyer during an English Premier League match at Anfield Stadium in 2014. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: Uruguay

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2011-14

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 69 goals, 23 assists in 110 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Luis Suarez joined the Reds in January 2012 and filled the void left by Fernando Torres.

Suarez raced to become one of Liverpool’s top forwards and had an excellent run with captain Steven Gerrard.

Despite courting controversy and bans, Suarez proved to be one of the best to kiss the Liverpool crest in his three seasons at Anfield. He never won a title, but his scoring theatrics earned Liverpool a close second place in the 2013-2014 season.

10. Fernando Torres

Chelsea’s Fernando Torres, top left, rises above the Stoke City defense to head the ball toward goal during an English Premier League match in 2014. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Spain

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2007-2015

EPL teams: Liverpool (2007-11), Chelsea (2011-15)

Career EPL stats: 85 goals, 29 assists in 212 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: His place in Premier League history is debatable, but in three-and-a-half seasons at Liverpool, he turned around the fortunes of the Reds.

His dynamic play with Steven Gerrard and speed beat up the Premier League’s best defenses and made him a Kop hero. He even earned a song from the Liverpool faithful, and his play against Manchester United is legendary.

Despite leaving for archrival Chelsea at the peak of his career, he always will be remembered as El Niño, the speedy horse of Liverpool that wrecked defenses.

9. Sergio Aguero

Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero, left, in action against Arsenal in 2019. Dave Thompson / AP Photo

Country: Argentina

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 2011- present

EPL teams: Manchester City

Career EPL stats: 160 goals, 41 assists in 229 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: The Argentine striker has been loyal to the Citizens since he started his EPL career in 2011.

He was the hero of their first Premier League title victory in his first season when his last-minute, injury-time goal put rivals Manchester United out of title contention for good.

Aguero has been one of the Premier League’s top forwards since he arrived and continues to perform for Manchester City.

8. Patrick Vieira

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira scores the winning penalty shot during a shootout at the end of the FA Cup final against Manchester United in 2005. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: France

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1996-2005, 2010-11

EPL teams: Arsenal (1996-2005), Manchester City (2010-11)

Career EPL stats: 31 goals, 34 assists in 307 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (1998, 2002, 2004)

Bottom line: French star Patrick Vieira was part of Arsene Wenger’s “Invincibles,” along with national teammate Thierry Henry. Vieira was a talented midfielder whose link-up play under Wenger was legendary.

Vieira captained Arsenal between 2002 and 2005 and set an example for future Gunners such as Aaron Ramsey.

While Vieira was on the pitch, Arsenal won three FA Cups and captured the historic 2003-04 season win.

7. Dennis Bergkamp

Arsenal’s Dennis Bergkamp, center, heads toward goal against Coventry at Highbury Stadium in London in 1996. Derek Cox / AP Photo

Country: Netherlands

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1995-2006

EPL teams: Arsenal

Career EPL stats: 87 goals, 94 assists in 315 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (1998, 2002, 2004)

Bottom line: Dennis Bergkamp is a legend of the Premier League.

The Dutchman only played for Arsenal. He joined the Gunners a season before Arsene Wenger was hired and became one of the Frenchman’s top proteges. He also was part of the 2003-04 title-winning Invincibles side with exemplary peers like Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira.

Bergkamp served the Gunners with utmost passion. He’s part of their golden generation, and such loyalty rarely is seen these days.

6. Ryan Giggs

Manchester United’s Ryan Giggs, right, looks outrun the Glasgow Rangers during a Champions League match in 2003. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Country: Wales

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1992- 2014

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 109 goals, 162 assists in 632 appearances

EPL titles: 13 (1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013)

Bottom line: Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs was part of the famous Class of 1992 with fellow legends David Beckham and Nicky Butt.

Giggs only played for United in his career and even managed his beloved club for a short time.

He was with the club for 22 years and, under the tutelage and guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, scored some amazing goals for the Red Devils.

At the end of his career, Giggs inspired younger players and served as a role model. He is an EPL great.

5. Thierry Henry

Arsenal’s Thierry Henry, left, fends off a Leicester City challenge during their FA Premiership match at Highbury in London in 2001. Dave Thomson / AP Photo

Country: France

Position: Forward

Experience in EPL: 1999-2007

EPL teams: Arsenal

Career EPL stats: 176 goals, 74 assists in 262 appearances

EPL titles: 2 (2002, 2004)

Bottom line: French striker Thierry Henry graced the Premier League during Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger’s most successful period.

Henry won two league titles was part of the championship-winning Invincibles in the 2003-04 season. That squad went unbeaten, a feat Arsenal has not repeated.

Henry started his career with Arsenal in 1999 and scored 176 goals in 262 appearances until his transfer to Barcelona in 2007.

4. David Beckham

Manchester United’s David Beckham, right, tries to slow Maccabi Haifa’s Avishay Zano during a UEFA Champions League match in 2002. Richard Lewis / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1992-2003

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 62 goals, 80 assists in 265 appearances

EPL titles: 6 (1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003)

Bottom line: Former England and Manchester United captain David Beckham was a prominent member of the Alex Ferguson-managed Class of 1992.

One of the Premier League’s most prolific midfielders, Beckham was part of United’s most successful period, winning the UEFA Champions League in 1999.

His half-line free kick goal is legendary now. Before Cristiano Ronaldo, Beckham was Manchester United’s shining star.

3. Steven Gerrard

Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard, center, shoots during a English Premier League match against Queens Park Rangers in 2014. Tim Ireland / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1998-2015

EPL teams: Liverpool

Career EPL stats: 120 goals, 92 assists in 504 appearances

EPL titles: 0

Bottom line: Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard spent his entire Premier League career at Anfield. He captained the Reds in their historic UEFA Champions League final victory in 2005 over AC MIlan — dubbed the “Miracle in Istanbul.”

His partnerships on field with Fernando Torres and later Luis Suarez made him a force.

He’s the best midfielder Liverpool ever had and perhaps its most successful captain of the Premier League era.

2. Paul Scholes

Manchester United’s Paul Scholes right, scores a goal against Newcastle during an FA Cup semifinal match in 2005. Jon Super / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Midfielder

Experience in EPL: 1994-2011, 2012-13

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 107 goals, 55 assists in 499 appearances

EPL titles: 11 (1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013)

Bottom line: Paul Scholes was not part of the Manchester United Class of 1992 with David Beckham and Ryan Giggs, but played alongside his prolific peers.

Scholes was the heart of United’s midfield and scored over 100 goals in 499 appearances, quite a feat for a midfielder.

He even came out of retirement in 2012 to help his manager and mentor Sir Alex Ferguson for another title challenge.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo, center, gets past Lyon’s Juninho during a Champions League match in 2008. Lionel Cironneau / AP Photo

Country: Portugal

Position: Forward/midfielder

Experience in EPL: 2003-09

EPL teams: Manchester United

Career EPL stats: 84 goals, 34 assists in 196 appearances

EPL titles: 3 (2007, 2008, 2009)

Bottom line: What can one say about Cristiano Ronaldo? The former Manchester United forward is hard-working and can play on the wings and up front.

Sir Alex Ferguson nurtured Ronaldo during his time with the Red Devils, and he was one of the key pieces of Sir Alex’s 4-4-2 setup — winning several Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League and even the FA Cup.

Ronaldo became Manchester United’s next big superstar, eclipsing even David Beckham in popularity, and grew into one of the world’s top soccer stars, leading to his transfer to Real Madrid.