Ranking the 10 Greatest French Players in Football History

6. Lilian Thuram

Career Span: 1991 - 2008

Lilian Thuram's immense contribution to the French national team is evident in his impressive number of caps, with only Hugo Lloris surpassing him in appearances. Thuram's versatility as both a centre-back and right-back made him an invaluable asset for his country. He played a crucial role in the 1998 World Cup, starting and finishing all but one game, and continued his importance at the Euros two years later.

His remarkable performances led to him being named the French Player of the Year in 1997. Thuram's club career saw him achieve success in Italy, first with Parma and then with Juventus, where he won numerous honors. He also had a stint at Barcelona before ultimately retiring in 2008.

Thuram's defensive prowess and consistency have earned him recognition as one of the greatest defenders in football history, as he was ranked the 17th greatest defender by fans. His impact on both the French national team and the clubs he represented solidify his status as a true legend of the game.

5. Raymond Kopa

Career Span: 1959 - 1967

Raymond Kopa, although his playing career may not be familiar to all modern fans, left an enduring legacy in the world of football. His name lives on through the Kopa Trophy, which is awarded annually to the best-performing under-21 player worldwide at the Ballon d'Or ceremony, with notable past winners including Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.

Kopa earned this prestigious recognition due to his remarkable achievements on the field. He holds the unique distinction of being the only player to have won both the Young Player of the Tournament and Player of the Tournament awards at two separate World Cups. He accomplished this feat in 1954 and 1958 when France finished third in both tournaments. Furthermore, Kopa was honored with the Ballon d'Or in 1958, solidifying his status as the best player in the world at the time.

His success extended beyond individual accolades, as Kopa also achieved major honors with his clubs. He won titles in his home nation while playing for Reims and experienced success in Spain during his time at Real Madrid. The impact and achievements of Raymond Kopa, both on the international stage and at club level, make him a revered figure in the history of football.

4. Kylian Mbappe

Career Span: 2015 - Present

Kylian Mbappe's potential to become the greatest French footballer of all time is widely acknowledged, but at the age of 25, he still has more to accomplish before being bestowed with such an honor. It is highly likely that he will eventually become France's all-time leading goalscorer, as he currently sits third on the list behind Olivier Giroud and Thierry Henry.

Mbappe's record in World Cup finals is particularly impressive, having scored five goals in total. He played a pivotal role in France's triumph at the 2018 World Cup, scoring twice in the final. In the 2022 edition, he added three more goals but fell short as France was eliminated by Argentina.

While Mbappe has enjoyed success at both Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain, lifting numerous trophies along the way, he is still awaiting a Champions League or Ballon d'Or victory to further enhance his legacy. Given his talent, achievements, and young age, there is no doubt that Mbappe has the potential to leave an indelible mark on French football and solidify his claim as one of the greatest players of his generation.

3. Michel Platini

Career Span: 1972 - 1987

Michel Platini's remarkable achievements in football undeniably place him among the greatest players of all time. His exceptional feat of winning the Ballon d'Or three consecutive times in 1983, 1984, and 1985 highlights his excellence on the field. While he couldn't secure a World Cup victory to accompany his European Championship triumph in 1984, Platini's contributions to the French national team remain highly regarded.

Platini's leadership qualities were evident as he captained France to their first international trophy, scoring in the final. At one point, he held the record as France's all-time leading goalscorer, further showcasing his impact on the national team.

His most successful years as a player were spent in Italy with Juventus, where he achieved significant success and won numerous trophies. However, Platini also had successful stints with Nancy and Saint-Etienne, adding to his illustrious career.

With accolades such as the Ballon d'Or and his contributions to both club and country, Michel Platini's name will forever be associated with greatness in the world of football.

2. Thierry Henry

Career Span: 1994 - 2014

Thierry Henry's electrifying playing style made him one of the most exceptional footballers of his generation. As an iconic figure for Arsenal, he was instrumental in the club's most successful era, earning him the reputation as the greatest player the Premier League has ever witnessed. While he also achieved success with Barcelona in Spain, Henry's impact on both club and country is undeniable.

With a prolific goal-scoring record, Henry once held the title of France's all-time leading goalscorer. His 51 international goals included three goals in the 1998 World Cup and another three in the Euro 2000 tournament. His ability to perform on the biggest stages showcased his exceptional talent and contribution to the French national team.

In addition to his individual achievements, Henry was named French Player of the Year five times, demonstrating his consistent excellence and high level of performance throughout his career. Starting his journey at Monaco, he quickly rose to prominence and continued to excel at the highest level.

Thierry Henry's legacy as one of the all-time greats is solidified by his incredible goal-scoring prowess, multiple trophies, and numerous individual accolades. His impact on French football, as well as his success at club level, cements his status as a true legend of the game.

1. Zinedine Zidane

Career Span: 1989 - 2006

Zinedine Zidane's elegance on the football field is unmatched, making him one of the most graceful players to have ever played the game. He possessed a unique ability to rise to the occasion, delivering exceptional performances in critical moments throughout his career. From his winning brace in the 1998 World Cup final to his iconic panenka penalty in the 2006 World Cup final, Zidane consistently displayed his class on the grandest stages.

His individual brilliance was recognized when he won the Ballon d'Or in 1998, a testament to his exceptional skill and impact on the game. One of the most memorable moments of Zidane's career came in the 2006 World Cup, where he dominated the final against Brazil with one of the greatest individual performances in the tournament's history.

Zidane's success extended beyond the international stage, as he achieved countless honors and accolades at club level. From his early years at Cannes and Bordeaux to his remarkable spells at Juventus and Real Madrid, Zidane consistently displayed his immense talent and contributed to his teams' triumphs.

With over a century of appearances for France and his numerous achievements, it is difficult to argue against Zidane being considered France's finest-ever footballer. His elegance, skill, and impact on the game have solidified his status as a true legend and one of the greatest footballers of all time.