🏆 The 25 greatest players of the last 25 years: An assist-machine in 21st | OneFootball

Welcome to OneFootball's definitive ranking of the 25 greatest players of the last 25 years.

Over the course of 25 days, we will be counting down our top 25 men's footballers of the 21st century so far, before revealing the winner on 1st January 2025.

Check out the list so far here

Today, our countdown continues with...

21st: Kevin De Bruyne (189 points)

📸 Michael Regan - 2024 Getty Images

Kevin De Bruyne is one of the most talented and complete midfielders in world football, who has established himself as the leader of a Manchester City side that has steamrolled English football in recent years.

In addition to his exceptional vision, his pinpoint passing and ability to score decisive goals, De Bruyne also excels in his versatility.

Over the years, he has filled his trophy cabinet with several Premier Leagues, a Champions League and many more domestic cups, while also being regularly nominated for the Ballon d'Or.

Fun fact

Although he has more than 100 caps for Belgium, De Bruyne could actually have plied his international trade for Burundi. His mother was born in the African nation before moving to Belgium.

Watch him in action

How we voted

Thirty-eight members of OneFootball's global editorial team ranked their top 25 players of the 21st century so far. Players ranked at #1 earned 25 points, second place earned 24 points, and so on. In the event of a tie, the player with the highest individual ranking was placed higher on the list.

📸 Michael Regan - 2024 Getty Images