Portuguese football is home to great players. From the pioneers who broke ground in the early days to today’s superstars who are rewriting records, here are ten legends who personify what the beautiful game is in Portugal.
- Cristiano Ronaldo
At the summit is Cristiano Ronaldo, the modern-day icon. His work rate is untiring, his athleticism is second to none, and his goal scoring is phenomenal, which he uses to set new standards. He is Portugal’s all-time top goalscorer and has done exceptionally well in many major leagues. His impact on and off the field has put Portuguese football on the world stage.
- Eusébio
Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, known as the Black Panther, was a goal machine who, with his great pace, long-range shots and predatory instincts, made him the very first true star in Europe. In the 1966 FIFA World Cup, he led Portugal to 3rd place, securing his place in history.
- Luís Figo
Figo was a blend of art and aggression. A talented winger who became a playmaker, he dominated at Barcelona and Real Madrid in that great period and also brought style, leadership and success to the Portuguese national team during his run.
- Rui Costa
Rui Costa, The Maestro, in his era, was the creative force behind both club and country. Graceful in control and elegant in technique, he bore the attacking hopes of Portugal and won over football fans worldwide.
- Deco
Anderson Luis de Souza — better known as Deco — was a technical talent out on the creative flank, which he also took to the Portuguese citizenship and national team with ease. He won the UEFA Champions League for two different clubs and was the personification of skill, poise and intelligence in the middle third.
- Peyroteo (Fernando Peyroteo)
From the past, Peyroteo is still the greatest goalscorer in Portuguese football history. Very much a man of one club, he scored at a remarkable rate in leagues that were very physical and basic — thus, he left a large legacy.
- Pepe
On defence, Pepe is a giant that the Portuguese team has at its disposal. What stands out in his play is his durability, physicality, his cool under pressure in the big matches and also his trophy collection, which is extensive at both club and international level. He is a mainstay in our back line and a leader for the better part of a decade.
- Paulo Futre
A star wing player, Futre came into the picture during the golden age of Portuguese club football. Renowned for his dribbling skills, creativity and performance in big matches, he raised the profile of Portuguese players on the international stage and left a very memorable mark.
- Ricardo Carvalho
Carvalho was a model professional defender, technically skilled, tactically smart and very successful at the club level, which was mainly with Porto, Chelsea and Real Madrid. He earned his spot among Portugal’s best thanks to his dependability and trophy collection.
- Nani
Energetic, skilful and effective, Nani brought joy and surprise to the flank. Although he didn’t reach the same levels as a few of the players listed, his role in the 2016 European Championship success and long international career see him off to a great start.
A Legacy of Excellence
Outstanding talent, national pride, success at the top level and which in turn inspired fans. These players’ careers laid the foundation for Portugal’s place as a footballing nation that produces world-class talent and which also does well on the international stage.
In every which way, be it in dazzling attack, defence anchoring or control of play in the midfield, they all brought a different element. What their stories tell us is that what we associate with great players isn’t only about the trophies, although for many of these players who came in, but about the influence they had, the character they brought, and that they left an endearing memory.
In the record books of Portuguese football, these 10 names will forever be associated with the greats that wore the “Quinas” with pride and, in turn, redefined what it was to be a Portuguese footballer.
