Football history is filled with legends who receive the glory they deserve. However, some exceptional talents fly under the radar, their contributions often overshadowed by their more celebrated counterparts. In this blog, we spotlight 13 underrated football players whose brilliance deserves more recognition. These players have left indelible marks on the game, yet their true value often remains underappreciated. Let's delve into the stories of these unsung heroes.

13. Keylor Navas

Date of Birth: December 15, 1986
Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Playing Position: Goalkeeper

Keylor Navas has been an outstanding goalkeeper, especially noted for his time at Real Madrid, where he played a crucial role in their three consecutive Champions League titles. His agility, reflexes, and ability to perform in big matches make him one of the best, yet often underrated.

12. Dani Carvajal

Date of Birth: January 11, 1992
Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)
Playing Position: Right Back

Dani Carvajal has been a consistent performer at right-back for Real Madrid, contributing significantly to their numerous Champions League triumphs. His defensive solidity and attacking support make him one of the most reliable full-backs.

11. Bastian Schweinsteiger

Date of Birth: August 1, 1984
Height: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Playing Position: Central Midfielder

Bastian Schweinsteiger was a key figure in Germany's 2014 World Cup win and enjoyed a stellar club career with Bayern Munich. Known for his leadership, passing, and defensive abilities, Schweinsteiger's influence on the pitch was immense.

10. N'Golo Kante

Date of Birth: March 29, 1991
Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
Playing Position: Defensive Midfielder

N'Golo Kante is a defensive powerhouse, known for his incredible work rate, interceptions, and ability to cover ground. His pivotal role in Leicester City's miraculous 2015-16 Premier League win and subsequent success with Chelsea underscores his impact.

9. Ivan Rakitic

Date of Birth: March 10, 1988
Height: 1.84 m (6 ft 0 in)
Playing Position: Central Midfielder

Ivan Rakitic has been a reliable and efficient midfielder for Sevilla, Barcelona, and Croatia. His intelligent play, ability to score crucial goals, and contributions to Croatia's 2018 World Cup runner-up finish highlight his importance.

8. Marco Reus

Date of Birth: May 31, 1989
Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Playing Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger

Marco Reus is a gifted attacking midfielder known for his versatility, vision, and goal-scoring ability. His loyalty to Borussia Dortmund and his unfortunate injury history have somewhat limited his international exposure, but his talent remains undeniable.

7. Gonzalo Higuain

Date of Birth: December 10, 1987
Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Playing Position: Striker

Gonzalo Higuain is one of the most consistent goal scorers of his generation. His clinical finishing has been evident in his stints with Real Madrid, Napoli, and Juventus. However, despite his impressive goal-scoring record, Higuain frequently faces undue criticism.

6. Franck Ribery

Date of Birth: April 7, 1983
Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
Playing Position: Winger

Franck Ribery dazzled with his dribbling skills, pace, and creativity. A key player in Bayern Munich's dominance, Ribery's contributions were crucial in their 2013 Champions League victory. Despite his talent, he often found himself overshadowed by other stars.

5. David Villa

Date of Birth: December 3, 1981
Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
Playing Position: Striker

David Villa was a prolific striker, celebrated for his sharp finishing and intelligent movement. Spain's all-time top scorer, Villa played a crucial role in their Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup triumphs. His club success at Valencia, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid also stands testament to his quality.

4. Angel Di Maria

Date of Birth: February 14, 1988
Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Playing Position: Winger / Attacking Midfielder

Angel Di Maria is a dynamic winger whose speed, dribbling, and crossing have been instrumental for clubs like Real Madrid, PSG, and the Argentine national team. Despite his pivotal role in major victories, including the Copa America 2021, Di Maria remains underappreciated.

3. Antoine Griezmann

Date of Birth: March 21, 1991
Height: 1.76 m (5 ft 9 in)
Playing Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Antoine Griezmann is a versatile forward known for his creativity, work rate, and scoring ability. His crucial role in France's 2018 World Cup victory and his impressive performances for Atletico Madrid and Barcelona showcase his talent. Yet, Griezmann often doesn't receive the same adulation as his peers.

2. Thomas Muller

Date of Birth: September 13, 1989
Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Playing Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Thomas Muller, the "Raumdeuter" or "space interpreter," has been a crucial figure for Bayern Munich and Germany. His unique ability to find and exploit space, combined with his scoring and assisting prowess, makes him invaluable. Muller's achievements, including World Cup glory and numerous Bundesliga titles, highlight his exceptional career.

1. Sergio Busquets

Date of Birth: March 21, 1991
Height: 1.76 m (5 ft 9 in)
Playing Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Sergio Busquets is a midfield maestro whose intelligence and tactical acumen have been pivotal for both Barcelona and Spain. Known for his precise passing, positioning, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Busquets has won numerous accolades, including multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. Despite his significant contributions, he often remains in the shadow of more attacking players.

These 13 players exemplify the notion of underrated excellence. Their contributions to football history are monumental, and they deserve more recognition for their achievements. Celebrating their stories helps us appreciate the depth and richness of the beautiful game.

Ready to take your game to the next level? Book your next match at Playspots for top sports facilities and easy booking.

Recent Posts:-

• The Mental Health Benefits of Sports: How Staying Active Improves Well-Being
• Why Your Sports Venue Needs Management Software
• Fastest Cricket Hundreds in ODI: A Thrilling Record Chase

• Secure Your Slot with Ease: Playspots Launches M-Pay for Guaranteed Bookings!
• Discover Top Cricket Grounds in Chennai