The Best Soccer Players of the 2010s: A Tier-Based Analysis

As an SEO expert, it is fascinating to analyze the best soccer players of the 2010s decade based on performance, longevity, and impact. In this article, I will present my tier-based ranking, based on criteria that emphasize longevity and consistency over peak performance. Other factors such as their influence on team performance and generational talent are also considered.

Criteria for Ranking

Here are the key criteria I used for the ranking:

Longevity and Consistency: The ranking is based on the entire decade, giving more weight to players who consistently performed well over a long period. Influence on Team Performance: The impact a player had on their team's success is a crucial factor in the ranking. Generational Talent: Considering the overall talent of the player, including their skills and impact in the era they played.

Players who didn't make the list were excluded based on these criteria. For example, Kylian Mbappé was only 12 days old at the start of the decade, and Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano were in a generational era that spanned multiple decades. Similar considerations were made for Carles Puyol and Steven Gerrard.

Top 10 Players of the 2010s

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Perhaps the most dominant player of the decade, Messi set numerous records and statistics. He scored more goals, made more assists, and executed more dribbles and progressive actions compared to any other player. His consistency and influence on the game made him a deserving top spot.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

CR7 earned his second Golden Boot in this decade, showcasing his decisive impact in the UEFA Champions League. His goal-scoring record in the Champions League is unparalleled, making him a standout performer in the decade.

3. Neymar Jr. (Brazil)

While Neymar is often considered a generational talent, his placement is offset by the fact that he wasn't the best player in his prime era. His talent and influence over the decade, along with his performances for Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil, made him a strong contender for a top three spot.

4. Andrés Iniesta (Spain)

Iniesta, considered one of the greatest playmakers of all time, received this ranking despite his decline since 2017. His performance in the early part of the decade and Champions League victories made him a key player for Spain and Barcelona.

5. Thomas Müller (Germany)

Müller's longevity and consistent performance made him a top contender. His record of World Cup goals stands out, and his versatility as a playmaker often went unnoticed. His contributions to the German national team and Bayern Munich were significant.

6. Angel Di María (Argentina)

Di María was often underrated due to his unpredictability and the talent of the Messi and Ronaldo. His performances for PSG and Argentina, marked by decisive moments, made him a vital player during the decade.

7. Luka Modri? (Croatia)

Modri? demonstrated his consistency and influence with Real Madrid, winning the Champions League three times and contributing to the Croatian national team's success.

8. Lazard Manga (France)

Manga's MVP performances for the French national team and his contributions at the club level played a significant role in his ranking.

9. Luís Suárez (Uruguay)

Despite his declining performances due to fitness issues, Suárez's pivotal moments for Barcelona and the Uruguay national team made him a deserving spot in the top 10.

10. Javier Mascherano (Argentina)

As a defensive midfielder, Mascherano's consistent performances and leadership made him a vital player for Barcelona and Argentina, often overshadowed by his more glamorous teammates but still a crucial figure.

The ranking reflects a careful consideration of each player's impact and performance over the decade. While the top three positions were nearly unanimous, the placements from fourth to ninth are somewhat interchangeable, reflecting the strength and depth of talent in the 2010s.

Final Thoughts

While this list is subject to personal opinions and debates, the criteria used ensure a balanced and fair ranking. The decade was filled with exceptional talent, and it was a pleasure to analyze and rank these players based on their impact and achievements.

For those who missed out on this list, a special mention goes to Yaya Touré, who undoubtedly had an impressive decade and could easily rank in the top 30.