Allegri, who most recently managed Serie A mainstay, Juventus – as part of his second stint with the Turin club, but left the side in unceremonious circumstances last season following a record fifth Coppa Italia final victory.

And with pressure mounting on ten Hag ahead of tomorrow’s trip to FC Porto and a Premier League return to Aston Villa on Sunday – where fans and bettors can still find Premier League odds ahead of the matchup, according to reports in Italy, six-time Serie A winner, Allegri has been received the backing of Ferguson to take the reigns at Old Trafford. 

Massimiliano Allegri betting outsider for Man United post

Yet to return to employment since he was replaced at Juventus by former midfield maestro, Thiago Motta, Massimiliano Allegri is reportedly also well appreciated by the Real Madrid hierarchy, who will fae a huge task to replace his compatriot, Carlo Ancelotti when the serial victor finally calls time on his coaching career.

As well as Massimiliano Allegri, another potential Italian suitor for the Man United job has emerged in the form of current Internazionale head coach, Simone Inzaghi, who led his side to a prior Serie A victory and a UEFA Champions League final against United’s neighbors, Manchester City. 

However, amid speculation linking Massimiliano Allegri and Simone Inzaghi with a surprising move to Old Trafford, another potential candidate to take over from ten Hag should the Dutchman be handed his walking papers next week is former Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich head coach, Thomas Tuchel, who reportedly held talks with the new INEOS-backed ownership group as recently as this summer.

For the time being at least, current assistant head coach, Ruud van Nistelrooy; a lethal finisher during his time on the pitch for United in the noughties, has been tipped to take over as the next permanent or caretaker coach should ten Hag receive a dismissal during the season.

Travelling to Portugal to take on FC Porto in tomorrow night’s pivotal UEFA Europa League outing, Man United will look to put a prior 0-3 woe against Tottenham behind them from last weekend, in tow with a disappointing collapse against FC Twente in their European format opener earlier this week. 

One thing appears to be certain is that should United succumb to back-to-back defeats to FC Porto and the above-mentioned Villa on Sunday, fans and media alike are preparing for the potential exit of former Ajax coach, ten Hag from the Old Trafford dugout as soon as the international break returns next week.

The appointment of Massimiliano Allegri would spell somewhat of a revert to old ways for the Manchester side – particularly if reports of backing from Ferguson are true, with the club icon sounding out David Moyes to take the reigns from him following his retirement from the post back in 2013 – before the ex-Everton boss was handed his notice just 10 months into the job, having penned a six-year contract. 

Many Asian players have mastered and even outgrown domestic leagues, gaining international recognition and even proving influential for their country. 

But who are the best Asian Soccer players of all time?

7. Ali Daei

Iranian legend Ali Daei played for a host of national club sides such as Esteghlal Ardabil, Taxirani, and most notably a brief spell at Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. 

Daei made his international debut in 1993, representing Iran across a thirteen-year period and winning a record total of 148 caps. He is famous for previously scoring the most international goals with 108 strikes before eventually being surpassed by Cristiano Ronaldo. Check out the latest odds across Asia’s other favorite sport with this online cricket betting app

6. Paulinho Alcântara

Paulinho Alcantara featured for just two clubs throughout his career including Barcelona and Bohemian. Whilst at Camp Nou he made 399 appearances and scored a remarkable 395 goals in the process! 

The Philippines international played eleven times for his country throughout the 1921/22 season and went on to score six goals. Yet it is for his extraordinary strike rate in La Liga with Barca that ultimately cemented his legacy. 

5. Park Ji-sung

South Korean Park Ji-sung played for some of the biggest teams in European soccer including Dutch side PSV Eindhoven and Manchester United. He scored 45 goals in 318 matches and is remembered as the complete midfield workhorse. 

Park made his international debut in 2000, going on to win an impressive century of caps and scoring 13 international goals. In 2010, he became the first Asian to score in three consecutive World Cup finals and Asia’s joint all-time leading scorer in the competition with three goals alongside compatriots Ahn Jung-hwan and Son Heung-min.

4. Kunishige Kamamoto

Forward Kunishige Kamamoto played 251 times for Japanese side Yanmar Diesel where he spent his entire career. Over the course of 17 years, he scored 202 goals and was named Japan Soccer League top scorer on six separate occasions. 

Kamamoto represented Japan just ten times all in the year 1964 however he still managed to score a total of eight goals. He was also crowned Japanese Footballer of the Year seven times in total.

3.  Cha-bum Kun

Cha-bum Kun featured for Darmstadt 98, Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen whilst appearing 308 times and scoring 98 goals. He won two UEFA cups whilst in Frankfurt and Leverkusen along with a German DFB-Pokal cup. 

Kun earned a national record of 136 caps for South Korea and became their all-time top scorer with a tally of 58 goals overall. He remains the youngest ever player to reach 100 caps at the age of 24 and was named IFFHS Asian player of the 20th century.

2. Keisuke Honda

Keisuke Honda made his international debut in 2008, representing the Japanese national team for ten years and scoring 37 goals in 98 appearances.

He played 501 times throughout his club career for teams such as Nagoya Grampus Eight, CSKA Moscow and the mighty AC Milan. Honda scored 105 goals along with being named both Japanese Player of the Year in 2010 and as the best soccer player in Asia for 2013!

1. Heung-min Son

Perhaps the best Asian Soccer player of all time is Heung-min Son who played for a number of European clubs such as Hamburg SV, Bayer Leverkusen, and Tottenham Hotspur, making 579 appearances and hitting over 200 goals. 

Son has earned over 100 caps for his country and scored an impressive 48 goals for South Korea. He has been named Korean Soccer Player of the Year seven times and Best Soccer Player in Asia on nine occasions!

But who are the best French Soccer Midfielders of all time?

7. Jean Tigana

One of the greatest French Soccer Midfielders of all-time is Jean Tigana. He established himself as an international star during his nation’s 1984 European Championship winning campaign, named French Player of the Year that same year and was also instrumental at the 1986 World Cup. Tigana claimed 52 caps for his country with his only international goal coming against Hungary.

The central midfielder played for some fantastic teams within the French leagues including Lyon, Bordeaux and Marseille. Tigana registered 544 appearances during his club career, scoring 38 goals whilst winning four Ligue 1 titles and finishing second in the 1984 Ballon d’Or.

6. Franck Ribery

Ribery’s international debut came in 2006. He played for France over the course of eight years, earning a total of 81 caps and scoring 16 goals for his country. Ribery helped his nation reach the 2006 World Cup final, winning French Player of the Year three times and placing third at the 2013 Ballon d’Or.

He is one of the best French Soccer Midfielders of all-time. Ribery featured most notably for Marseille, Bayern Munich and Fiorentina, scoring 161 club goals in 715 matches. He won an impressive nine Bundesliga titles, six German cups along with the Champions League in 2013.

With your newfound knowledge of French Soccer, why not bet on CS2 matches

5. Didier Deschamps

Didier Deschamps first featured for the French national side in 1989 and sits ninth on the all-
time appearance list having accumulated 103 caps. He captained the 1998 World Cup winning side, repeating the feat two years later at the 2000 European Championship and was named French Player of the Year in 1996.

He remains one of the greatest French Soccer Midfielders of all-time. Deschamps played for
such teams as Nantes, Marseille and Juventus, scoring 21 times in 561 appearances. He won two Ligue 1 titles, a Serie A honour along with two Champions League successes whilst at both Marseille and Juventus.

4. Raymond Kopa

Raymond Kopa featured in 244 matches across European football for clubs such as Reims and Spanish giants Real Madrid. Over an eighteen-year period, he struck 123 goals and won the Ballon d’Or in 1958 whilst at the Bernabeu along with three consecutive European Cups.

Amongst the best French Soccer Midfielders of all-time, Kopa made his first international appearance in 1952, playing a decade for France and scoring 18 goals in 45 caps. He featured at both the 1952 and 1958 World Cups along with appearances at the 1960 European Championship. Kopa even has FIFA’s prestigious annual trophy for the game’s best young talent named after him.

3. Patrick Vieira

As one of the greatest French Soccer Midfielders of all-time, Patrick Vieira featured 107 times for France, the eighth highest total in his country’s history and scored six goals. He formed part of the national team that won both the 1998 World Cup and European Championship in 2000. His most notable international goal was the winning strike versus Japan in the final of 2001’s FIFA Confederations Cup. Vieira was named France Player of the Year in 2001 and as part of the FIFA 100 in 2004.

He recorded 650 appearances for teams such as Arsenal, Inter Milan and Manchester City, scoring 58 goals for his club sides. He won four Serie A titles, the Premier League three times and was also awarded Arsenal Player of the Season for 2000-01.

2. Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane earned 108 caps for France and scored 31 goals for the national side. The powerful playmaker was enigmatic during both their 1998 World Cup success and victory at the European Championship two years later. He is regarded as perhaps France’s most naturally gifted talent ever.

Among the best French Soccer Midfielders of all-time, Zidane played in some of Europe’s top leagues for the likes of Juventus and Real Madrid, registering 695 appearances and scoring 125 goals for his clubs. He won Serie A titles, a La Liga trophy and the European Cup with Los Blancos in 2002.

1. Michel Platini

Michel Platini is considered by many to be the best French Soccer Midfielder of all-time. He earned 72 caps for France, scoring 41 times and was famously part of their 1984 European Championship winning team. Platini was also awarded three consecutive Ballon d’Or honours between 1983 and 1985!

The Attacking Midfielder spent the majority of his playing career at Saint Etienne and Italian side Juventus, making a total of 580 club appearances whilst scoring an impressive 312 goals. He won a handful of French honours and whilst in Italy claimed two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia along with the European Cup in 1985.

With a mixture of astute soccer knowledge and often a healthy dose of luck, waging money in a calculated way at the right time, has proved incredibly lucrative for a handful of gamblers. 

It’s important to remind our audience before we go on, that it’s important to always bet and play safely responsibly, whether you’re at a bookies, a casino , or even an online casino! 

Europe is one of the most heavily regulated gambling markets, within both casinos and betting, according to experts within the online casino industry CTO, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any options to play slots or put down a bet on your favourite team.

CasinoTopsOnline has made a list of the best casinos in the EU, but if you are more interested in betting and stories revolving around that subject, go ahead and read further down the text, where we now list the biggest ever bets on soccer in Europe: 

9. Steve Sales (£60,000)

Unemployed Londoner Steve Sales placed a £1.40 bet that relied on Inverness, Dundee and Ross Country to win their second round Scottish League Cup matches by a final score of 7-0. Despite his limited knowledge of the Scottish game, all three teams won seven-nil which netted Sales £60,000!

8. Rory Lewis (£100,000)

Rory Lewis placed a £100 accumulator bet on four non-league teams winning their first round Scottish Cup games and all by four goals or more. Cove Rangers, Huntly, Culter and Wick Academy did just that with Lewis claiming a £100,000 prize!

7. Brian Matthews (£112,500)

Wolves supporter Brian Matthews bet a mere £15 on teams that played across a 15-match run and that they would score at least one goal. Despite odds of over 7000/1, Matthews’ risky play paid off with Marten de Ron scoring a goal against Manchester City during injury time to secure him a huge £112,500 prize.

6. Peter Edwards (£125,000)

Fifteen years prior to cashing in his bet, Peter Edwards placed an ambitious wager that his own grandson Harry Wilson would one day play for Wales. In 2013, Harry made his international debut and as their youngest ever player, the £50 Edwards bet eventually pocketed him £125,000!

5. Unnamed (£180,000)

In 2016, an unnamed restaurant worker placed a £1 accumulator that relied upon the results of 16 games from around the world to prove accurate. Nail-biting results included Watford beating Nottingham Forest thanks to a late goal and a 94th minute consolation strike from Eibar striker Borja against Malaga. At odds of 180,000-1, his win totalled a whopping £180,000!

4. Unnamed (£223,000)

An unnamed punter was only moments away from a potential £900,000 accumulator win when he strangely cashed out four minutes from the final whistle. However, it proved a masterful move as a late goal from Wycombe’s Myles Weston against Plymouth Argyle would have voided his 21-leg bet entirely – instead he picked up a cool £223,000. 

3. Mick Gibbs (£500,000)

In 2001, tradesman Mick Gibbs placed a bet with odds of 1,666,666 to one. He spent just 30p on a wager based around the outcome of 15 separate sporting events. This included correctly predicting the top five teams in the Premier League, the bottom three clubs in the Scottish League and Bayern Munich winning the Champions League – the bet netting Gibbs £500,000!

2. Anonymous (£650,000)

In 2014, an anonymous London gambler placed a bet on the result of some Saturday afternoon games just 20 minutes before the final whistle blew. Miraculously each and every one of the eight scores he’d predicted proved correct including an unlikely draw between West Ham and Stoke with the Hammers 2-0 down. His staggering wager earned the punter a massive £650,000!

1. Damian Chick (£1,000,000)

Kitchen tradesman Damian Chick waged just £5 on the outcome of the Euro 2016 final. He not only predicted the scorer of the winning goal but also the exact minute it would be scored. Portugal forward Eder struck in the 109th minute to defeat France and although it earned Chick a huge £1 million payout, he didn’t realise he’d won until three days later!

From the early iterations to highly complex designs we see today, the greatest soccer video games remain groundbreaking, game-changing and truly memorable.

But which are the best soccer video games of all-time?

9. Actua Soccer (1996, PS1)

Actua Soccer received glowing reviews upon its release with its realistic gameplay and range of rich features. It has a variety of teams and leagues to choose from including national sides or club teams from various countries. Players were able to create their own teams or customise kits whilst taking part in various game modes with commentary by Barry Davies.

8. FIFA 12 (2011, PS3 / XBox 360)

FIFA 12 introduced the franchise’s revolutionary ‘Impact Engine’ which delivered incredible realism via enhanced collisions, player interactions and advanced movements. The game was highly praised for its innovation, dynamic gameplay and eclectic soundtrack. At the time, FIFA 12 was arguably the most advanced simulation of soccer which ultimately led to the game’s popularity worldwide. This title further strengthened the FIFA brand as its domination over the Pro Evolution series continued to grow.

After you have finished playing FIFA and you want some betting odds for an upcoming weekend of high-octane Premier League soccer you can check out these reviews of many instant withdrawal casinos and find the perfect one for you!

7. Championship Manager 2001/02 (2001, PC)

This phenomenal PC release was feature rich and a true improvement on versions that had preceded it. Gamers were able to scout players, devise detailed tactics and immerse themselves in dramatic text commentary. Championship Manager 2001/02 was highly addictive, allowing players to experience the inner workings of a soccer team whilst striving to achieve glory through endless hours of intricate gameplay. 

6. FIFA International Soccer (1993, Sega Mega Drive)

Developed by EA Canada’s Extended Play Productions, FIFA International Soccer was universally loved by critics upon release, praised for its detailed animation, sound effects and overall style. Gameplay was very accessible to younger players and appealing to casual gamers too which only enhanced its popularity. The Sega Mega Drive version of this game was a sensation and soon became the UK’s best-selling home video game of 1993.

5. Virtua Striker (1994, Arcade)

Only made available in Arcades, Virtua Striker was amongst the first soccer video games to utilise 3D player models. Its design prioritised action-packed gameplay yet balanced with some of the most realistic digital representations of soccer seen up to that point. Virtua Striker featured eighteen international teams, simplistic controls and yet its revolutionary 3D graphics kept gamers addicted.

4. FIFA 10 (2009, PS3 / XBox 360)

FIFA 10 is widely credited as the version that finally pushed aside any challenge posed by Pro Evolution Soccer and allowed the Franchise to dominate the soccer video game market going forward. The title introduced a superior iteration of 360-degree player control along with a host of game modes including Ultimate Team and Manager Mode. 

3. New Star Soccer (2003, Android / Windows)

New Star Soccer became a mobile gaming classic following its release across Android and Windows devices in 2003. Its design merged features of Sensible Soccer’s overhead gameplay, Football Manager’s tactical depth along with simple additions such as levelling up players. It was eventually released for iOS in 2012 and even won a BAFTA for Best Sports Fitness Game in 2013.

2. Pro Evolution Soccer 5 (2005, PS2)

Pro Evolution Soccer’s golden years from 2002-2005 saw Konami unleash four titles that showcased elite soccer video game design. Yet their 2005 release is perhaps the series high point with its Master League evolving into a four-division structure, the inclusion of a Champions League style tournament and even official player names. Pro Evolution Soccer 5 possessed incredibly smooth gameplay and above all else was extremely playable. 

1. Sensible World Of Soccer (1994, Amiga)

The sequel to their 1992 hit Sensible Soccer, Amiga released Sensible World Of Soccer just two years later, combining a 2D arcade-oriented game with an addictive management style design. It also featured a total number of 1,500 teams and 27,000 players from around the world. Sensible World Of Soccer’s gameplay is simplistic and yet a range of exciting actions can be performed by the user. In 1996, the title was ranked best of all time by Amiga Power Magazine and inducted into GameSpot’s list of the greatest games of all time.

United, who have won four of their most recent Premier League matches, continued that winning run over the course of last weekend at Kenilworth Road, with an early double from in-form striker, Rasmus Højlund enough to see off promoted side, Luton Town despite a spirited effort.

The victory came as United clawed back a 1-2 win on the road against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, with Højlund scoring, before a late goal from Scott McTominay led United to victory on the road in their Premier League reverse.

And ahead of Fulham’s trip to The Theatre of Dreams this weekend, Manchester United are available as low as -188 – with ggbet offering punters and fans the chance to bet on multiple markets ahead of this weekend’s Premier League return – as the title race continues to hot up before a May conclusion. 

However, ahead of this weekend’s return against Fulham, United will be without full back, Shaw, who was forced off in the opening 45 minutes against Luton last weekend – with Victor Lindelof replacing the former Southampton man. 

Sidelined for a minimum of 12 weeks, Shaw joins fellow defender stalwart, Lisandro Martinez, who was forced off late on in a dominant home win against West Ham at Old Trafford earlier this year. 

Chasing UEFA Champions League places with the potential promise of a fifth position proving enough for top-tier European qualification for United, Dutch coach, ten Hag appears to have the full backing of new minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe this week, who pointed to an unfavorable “environment” at Old Trafford which has seen prior successful coaches fail in the past.

“The short term issue is we want to get into the Champions League,” Ratcliffe told BBC. “It’s a two-to-three season challenge to get the organization and environment right, to get the performances on the field and win football matches. That involves the design and structure of the organization being correct.”

“In the last 11 years, Manchester United have had a lot of coaches and nobody has been very successful in that environment,” Ratcliffe expained. “That says to me there is something wrong with the environment. It is not constructive for me to blame anyone, it’s just a fact. My focus is on how I change that environment to get the best out of the coach and squad.” 

Last season, ten Hag guided United to a third place finish in his first season in English football, behind both Arsenal and eventual champions, Manchester City — as well as landing a Carabao Cup win over Newcastle, and succumbing to a 2-1 loss to City in the pair’s season concluder in an FA Cup final showdown — with the club striking silverware for the first time since the departure of veteran Portuguese head coach, Jose Mourinho.

In the wake of a continued summer of spending, Manchester United have been priced as decent runners to mount a title challenge in this season’s Premier League – as they look to land their first championship win since Sir Alex Ferguson’s finale back in 2013.

Under Dutch coach, Erik ten Hag last season, United finished third in the Premier League, behind just second placed, Arsenal, and eventual title winners, Manchester City.

As far as domestic competitions go for the Old Trafford side, they managed to pick up a Carabao League Cup title with a 2-0 win over UEFA Champions League qualifiers, Newcastle United – before dropping a a loss to eventual treble winners, City in an FA Cup final in a Wembley return in May.

And off the back of a promising start to the tenure of former Ajax head coach, ten Hag, bookies have placed United on certain markets as short as +850 to outright win the Premier League this season.

A host of casino are also offering more than just outright betting on Premier League title winners to boot – with Erling Haaland likely to gain much interest in the golden boot race, alongisde current Spurs frontman, Harry Kane – after the Norweigan won the accolade in his debut season in English football. 

United’s pricing in current markets can be pointed likely toward a summer which has already seen the acquisiton of three prime targets – as well as the offloading of numerous veteran performers, including club legend, David de Gea, following a topsy-turvy season for the Spanish shot stopper.

In the Spaniard’s place comes Cameroonian sweeper keeper, Andre Onana – with the UEFA Champions League finalist once more linking up with former Ajax head coach, ten Hag, after his graduation from a heralded one of numerous youth programes at FC Barcelona’s, La Masia acadmey. 

Signing from London rivals, Chelsea after weeks of negotiations, English international engine, Mason Mount has been added to bolster United’s midfield – with pre season showing already seeing the boyhood Chelsea product tried alongside Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and fellow playmaker, Bruno Fernandes in a midfield three – as well as youth academy prospect, Kobbie Mainoo. 

And in arguably the most high-profile signing of the summer so far for United, Danish striker, Rasmus Holjund has finally joined the Manchester club following another long, drawn-out transfer saga.

Missing the opportunity to feature in friendlies against both RC Lens at Old Trafford, and Basque-side, Athletic Bilbao in Dublin the following day this weekend, the former Atalanta and Copenhagen talent took to the soccer field at Old Trafford on Saturday, greeted by attending fans as part of his presentation. 

In terms of other potential comings at United this summer – they appear to solely rely on a host of potential outgoings.

Moroccan midfielder, Sofyan Amrabat – who garnered much attention following his exploits at last winter’s FIFA World Cup, has been identified as a potential repalcement for either Brazilian midfielder, Fred, or Scott McTominay should either depart Old Trafford. Italian side, Fiorentina are expected to entertain offers in the region of €30,000,000 for Ambarat’s services.

In defence, while Monaco upstart, Axel Disasi seems set to make a move to Chelsea to replace the injured Wesley Fofana, should former club captain, Harry Maguire make a rumored move to captial side, West Ham United – ten Had has reportedly called for the club to replace the England center half with French talent, Jean-Clair Todibo from Ligue 1 side, OGC Nice. 

Yet having them in a team can open up a world of new possibilities. Played in the correct position they have a distinct advantage over their right-footed defensive teammates as they can make passes or clearances with their left foot and distribute the ball more effectively in certain areas. The best left footed centre backs also provide different angles of attack and create more options for their teammates.

So who are the best left-footed soccer centre backs of all-time?

10. Thomas Vermaelen

Retired Belgian central defender Thomas Vermaelen began his soccer career in the youth academy of local club Germinal Ekeren. As one of the best left footed centre backs he went on to play for many of Europe’s top teams including Ajax, Arsenal and Barcelona. Vermaelen was renowned for his leadership, aerial presence and tenacity which made him formidable at the heart of defensive units. 

He was also a regular for the Belgian national team, making 85 international appearances and even captaining his country on several occasions. He played a key role in helping Belgium reach the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Unfortunately, injuries plagued Vermaelen’s career and in 2021 at the age of 35 was forced to call time on his playing career due to recurring knee issues.

9. Jan Vertonghen

Jan Vertonghen proved to be a flexible defender, usually playing at centre-back or sometimes taking up the role of left-back. The Belgian started his professional career at Ajax in 2006 and went on to become a cult favourite, the Dutch side winning two Eredivisie titles and two KNVB cups during this time in Amsterdam. He was also named Dutch Footballer of the Year in 2012.

The following season he moved to EPL side Tottenham Hotspur and was a crucial player for the club over the eight campaigns that followed. He was a part of the Spurs team that reached the Champions League final in 2019 and he helped drive them on to multiple top-four finishes. Undoubtedly one of the best left footed centre backs, the Belgian played in three World Cups and was part of the national side that reached the semi-finals in 2018. 

8. Kalidou Koulibaly

Senegal and Chelsea centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly began life at Metz in France before switching to Genk in 2012 then joining Napoli in 2014 where he became one of the best left footed centre backs and best defenders in the world.

Koulibaly has fantastic physicality and strength with amazing aerial ability. He is also comfortable with the ball at his feet, able to carry out from the back whilst capable of making incisive passes into midfield. Koulibaly finally made his big move to the Premier League in 2022 signing for Chelsea. 

7. Gabriel Heinze

Gabriel Heinze started life at Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Europe to play for Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Real Madrid. He later featured for Marseille and Roma.

Heinze was one of the best left footed centre backs and had an aggressive style along with tenacity. He was a regular member of Argentina’s National team, playing in two World Cups and part of the side that reached the quarter-finals in 2006. Heinze retired from professional soccer in 2014 to pursue his coaching career with Atlanta United in the MLS.

6. Walter Samuel

Retired Argentine professional soccer player Walter Samuel featured as a centre-back most famously for Roma, Real Madrid and Inter Milan. As one of the best left footed centre backs he was extremely physical and had great aerial ability. Samuel was ever present for the Argentine national team, playing in two World Cups and part of the team that won gold at the 2004 Olympics. 

He went on to pursue a career in coaching, becoming an assistant at various clubs including Inter Milan, Basel and Argentine club Estudiantes. Samuel is one of the best left-footed defenders of his generation with an illustrious career spanning over two decades playing in the world’s top soccer leagues.

5. David Alaba

David Alaba’s career began at Bundesliga side Bayern Munich where he quickly established himself as a key player. During his 12-year spell with the German giants the Austrian developed into one of the best left footed centre backs –  going on to win ten league titles, two Champions League honours and multiple other domestic trophies.

He is versatile, technically gifted and comfortable playing in various positions. Alaba has incredible passing and dribbling abilities whilst also being capable of scoring goals. He has also been a regular member of the Austrian national team and was named Austrian Footballer of the Year a total of seven times. In 2021, Alaba signed for Real Madrid on a free transfer which only further cemented his reputation as one of the best defenders in the world.

4. Daniel Passarella

Daniel Passarella started his career at River Plate in Argentina before moving to Fiorentina and the later to Inter Milan. One of the best left footed centre backs, he was known for fantastic leadership skills, aerial ability and even scoring goals from set-pieces. 

The Argentinian was also a regular member of the national team, playing in two World Cups and even helping his country win the tournament in 1978. After his retirement he managed several clubs including River Plate, Uruguay’s national team and Corinthians in Brazil. Passarella has also worked as a soccer administrator, serving as the President of River Plate between 2009 and 2013.

3. Frank De Boer

Frank de Boer won a range of domestic and international trophies at Ajax including five Eredivisie titles and the UEFA Champions League. He had a fantastic reading of the game, his ability to play accurate long-range passes made him one of the best left footed centre backs and a key player in the Amsterdam side’s success during the 1990s. 

He was a crucial member of the Dutch national team, featuring in three World Cups and reaching the semi-finals in 1998. After retiring from soccer, de Boer developed a career in coaching, managing several clubs including Ajax, Inter Milan and Atlanta United. 

2. Alessandro Costacurta

Retired Italian Alessandro Costacurta spent the majority of his professional soccer career at AC Milan, where he won a host of domestic and international trophies, including seven Serie A titles and an incredible five UEFA Champions League titles.

Costacurta was intelligent, an expert at positioning and possessed great aerial ability making him a formidable opponent. He was very comfortable with the ball at his feet, eager to make precise passes and able to start attacks from the back. Costacurta was one of the best left footed centre backs who played in three World Cups and helped his country reach the final in 1994.

1. Giorgio Chiellini

Giorgio Chiellini currently plays for MLS side Los Angeles FC but began his career at Livorno’s youth academy. He went on to play for several Italian clubs including Fiorentina and Juventus where he established himself as one of the best left footed centre backs and best defenders in the world. 
Chiellini amassed an impressive collection of domestic and international titles with Juventus including ten Serie A titles. He made 117 appearances for Italy and represented his country in several major international tournaments including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship – which they won in 2021. Chiellini will be remembered as possibly one of the best left footed centre backs all-time if not the greatest.

As the game has evolved and players having become more athletic, the height at which they jump has continued to steadily increase, reaching measurements that weren’t thought possible only a few decades ago.

This list of highest jumps in football is heavily dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s no surprise when you discover he can jump up to almost twice his height in a single bound. However, other interesting names feature in the record books that you may not expect. 

Some of these elite players will be at the upcoming Euro 2024 event being held in Germany this summer. Find everything you need about UEFA euro 2024 on BetUS.

So which players have performed the top 10 jumps in football history?

10. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Sassuolo (2021)

2.44 metres

In January 2021, and a match was played behind closed doors due to the Covid pandemic, Cristiano Ronaldo recorded one of the highest jumps in football history. Springing upwards into an aerial battle with Sassuolo goalkeeper Andrea Consigli, CR7 expertly rose above his opponent to find the net.

In the aftermath, the Sassuolo players were clearly shell shocked by the height to which Ronaldo had managed to leap, beating Consigli to the ball despite the keeper using his arms for extra power in the jump.

9. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Osasuna (2011)

2.44 metres

As part of his prolific 2011/12 season, where he scored an incredible sixty goals across the entire campaign, Cristiano Ronaldo produced one of the highest jumps in football history with the ninth biggest leap of all time that equaled his feat against Sassuolo.

During a home match at the Santiago Bernabeu, Ronaldo scored a hat-trick for Real Madrid against Osasuna in an impressive 7-1 win. Yet it was his third goal that grabbed the headlines, from a corner kick he rose with a towering glanced header to score, the jump measuring 2.44 metres which was then a La Liga record.

8. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Torino (2019)

2.47 metres

During this Serie A match against Torino, Cristiano Ronaldo recorded an astonishing 2.47m jump! Torino actually went ahead in the game, looking certain to claim all three points against their Turin based rivals Juventus, in a fiercely contested Derby game.

It was then that CR7 worked his magic. In the 84th-minute the Portuguese sensational soared high above his marker and thundered a header home to level the score and deny Torino a famous victory with one of the highest jumps in football.

7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic vs Inter Milan (2020)

2.53 metres

Legendary Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović has used his height and ominous frame to score a range of fine headed goals throughout his career. Perhaps his greatest leap and one of the highest jumps in football came during the Milan derby in February 2020 during his second spell with AC Milan.

Ibrahimovic provided the assist for Milan’s first goal as he rose over two-and-a-half metres into the air to nod the ball down into the path of his strike partner Ante Rebić. It is remarkable that the Swede can reach such heights considering his solid build. Ibrahimović also scored a header just before half time yet Inter ultimately won the game 4-2.

6. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Sampdoria (2019)

2.56 metres

At the time, Cristiano Ronaldo claimed the Serie A record for highest jump by a professional footballer, scoring a header against Sampdoria with a massive 2.56 metre spring! CR7 launched himself into the air to make contact with Alex Sandro’s cross and powered the ball home to score one of the highest jumps in football.

The achievement would remain unbroken for almost two years. During his time with Italian Giants Juventus, Ronaldo recorded the top three biggest leaps in Italian league history and all within the space of two years.

5. Victor Osimhen vs Spezia (2023)

2.58 metres

Nigerian striking superstar Victor Osimhen set a new record and one of the highest jumps in football history during Napoli’s 3-0 away victory against Spezia in February 2023. 

He planted a brilliant header into the net against the ‘Little Eagles’, in the 68th minute rising above goalkeeper Bartlomiej Dragowski at the Stadio Alberto Picco to hand Napoli a 2-0 lead. Osimhen jumped a ridiculous 2.58 metres into the air to contest a looping ball and headed home in a game his team eventually won 3-0.

4. Fikayo Tomori vs Juventus (2021)

2.61 metres

Victor Oshimen took two years to beat the record set by AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori when in May 2021 he scored as Milan defeated Juventus 3-0. With one of the highest jumps in football, Tomori destroyed Cristiano Ronaldo’s highest jump from 2019 with an epic leap of 2.61 metres!

Milan were awarded a free kick and Tomori took up his position in the penalty area. He muscled his way towards goal, watched the flight of the ball and jumped, towering over the usually dominant Giorgi Chiellini to head the ball into the net.

3. Bevis Mugabi vs Ross County (2021)

2.62 metres

The third biggest jump of all time came during a Scottish Premiership in February 2021 and was scored by Motherwell’s little known Ugandan defender Bevis Mugabi. Although not exactly a household name, Mugabi is an international who has played for his country a total of fifteen times. 

He leapt higher than all of his opponents to score a wonderful and memorable header against Ross County which was one of the highest jumps in football. Mugabi’s spring was recorded at an incredible 2.62 metres and earned himself a place in football’s illustrious history.

2. Youssef En-Nesyri vs Portugal (2022)

2.78 metres

Youssef En-Neseyri is the only player in the top ten highest jumps in football history to achieve the feat whilst on international duty. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup Quarter final vs Portugal the Moroccan scored a breathtaking header. 

En-Nesyri leapt up above the Portuguese defenders and higher than goalkeeper Diogo Costa to head the ball down into the goal. It proved to be Morocco’s winning goal in the 1-0 victory that saw them become the first African and Arab side to reach a World Cup semi-final. El-Neseyri’s majestic header set a new world cup record for greatest jump in the game’s international history.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Manchester United (2013)

2.93 metres

Unsurprisingly, number one on the list of highest jumps in football is Cristiano Ronaldo.  

His insane leap is a significant fifteen centimetres higher than any other player in the history of the sport. In February 2013 Real Madrid faced Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League Round-of-16 First leg. 

As the cross came soaring in from the left side Ronaldo began his awesome ascent, looming over Patrice Evra who was desperately attempting to mark him, but he flew 2.93 metres high above the United defender’s shoulders to float his header past a helpless David De Gea.

These select professionals are some of the oldest soccer players who typically bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the game with their longevity serving as an inspiration to teammates or younger generations.

So who are the top 10 oldest soccer players of all-time?

10. Ze Roberto (43) 

One of the oldest soccer players, Brazilian soccer star Ze Roberto retired from the game in 2017 aged 43. He was a versatile player who featured at left-back, central midfielder and even as a winger. The South American regularly displayed remarkable adaptability and athleticism.

Ze Roberto played for a number of high-profile clubs including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and home nation side Santos. He made a total of 84 appearances for Brazil, winning the Copa America in both 1997 and 1999. Since his retirement, Ze Roberto has continued his involvement in the sport as a coach and mentor to younger players.

9. Shunsuke Nakamura (43) 

Ninth on the list of oldest soccer players, Shunsuke Nakamura finally retired from professional soccer as recently as 2022 at the age of 43. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever grace the Japanese game. Nakamura played for Serie A side Reggina in the early 2000’s and later signed for Scottish club Celtic where he became a firm fan favourite. 

One of the oldest soccer players, he was renowned for incredible skill, set piece accuracy and an ability to score spectacular goals from long range. Nakamura was also a key figure for the Japanese national team, making almost 100 appearances, winning the AFC Asian Cup in 2004 and 2011. He is currently the first team coach of Yokohama FC. Nakamura remains the only player to have been named ‘J League Most Valuable Player’ twice when he received the award in both 2000 and 2013.

8. Gianluigi Buffon (45)

Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in soccer history, Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon began his professional career with Parma in 1995 before moving on to Juventus in 2001. He has won numerous accolades including ten Serie A titles, four Italian Cups and a UEFA Cup. Buffon was also part of the Italian team to claim the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Having finally returned to Parma in 2021 and now aged 45, Buffon is still an exceptional shot-stopper with excellent reflexes and a commanding presence in the penalty box. He has become famous for his longevity as one of the oldest soccer players, having played at the highest level for over two decades including a recent stint at French side PSG. 

7. John Burridge (45)

Former English professional goalkeeper John Burridge (also known as “Budgie”) is one of the oldest soccer players, featuring for numerous clubs during a career that spanned 28 years from 1969 to 1997 including Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Southampton. He played until he was 43 years old and holds the record for oldest player to ever appear in the English Premier League with Manchester City. 

Burridge was an eccentric and a confident character who loved practical jokes. Following his retirement, he became a coach and worked at the likes of Hartlepool United and Kerala Blasters in India. Interestingly, Burridge has also written a book about his career and life in soccer entitled “Budgie: The Autobiography of Goalkeeping Legend John Burridge.”

6. Vitorino Hilton (45)

Vitorino Hilton (or more commonly known as Hilton) is a former Brazilian centre-back who retired from the sport in 2022 with his final club being French club Sete. He started his professional career with Brazilian team Paraná Clube in 1999 before eventually moving into French soccer.

Despite being well into his 40s and one of the oldest soccer players, Hilton remained a key player for Montpellier as recently as 2021 by helping them reach the Coupe de France semi-final stage. Hilton is known for his physical strength, epic aerial presence and excellent tackling skills. He was a highly respected leader having served as captain for many of the teams across the duration of his career.

5. Essam El-Hadary (45)

Retired Egyptian Essam El-Hadary is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in African soccer history and fifth on the list of oldest soccer players. Beginning his career back in 1993 with Egypt’s league side Damietta, El-Hadary eventually moved to bigger clubs such as Al Ahly and Zamalek.

El-Hadary is known for his shot-stopping abilities, amazing reflexes and prowess in penalty shootouts. His crowning achievement came during Egypt’s win at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations where he was ultimately named the tournament’s best goalkeeper. He retired from international soccer in 2018 having earned 159 caps which was a record for an African player. Two years later he played his final game for Egyptian team Nogoom.

4. Stanley Matthews (50)

English soccer legend Sir Stanley Matthews is thought of as one of the greatest players of all time and oldest soccer players. He played most famously for Stoke City and Blackpool, known for his exceptional dribbling skills, speed on the ball and his precise crossing ability. During his time Matthews won two FA Cups, the first with Stoke City in 1937 and the second fifteen years later with Blackpool in 1953. The latter match became known as the “Matthews Final” in which he gave one of the most outstanding performances by a wide player in living memory.

Matthews made 54 appearances for England and was a member of the team that won the 1953 British Home Championship. Off the soccer field, he was dedicated to fitness and his healthy lifestyle, continuing to play as one of the oldest soccer players until he was 50 years old and was finally knighted in 1965 for his services to soccer. 

3. Paul Bastock (52)

Paul Bastock is an English soccer goalkeeper and famous amongst the non-league side of the sport. As one of the oldest soccer players, he featured for numerous lower tier English teams such as St Albans City, Cambridge City and Boston United.

Bastock is known for his longevity having played professionally until 2017 aged 47 years old. Yet despite only playing once in the last six years, he has yet to officially retire at the age of 52. Bastock holds the record for most appearances in non-league soccer with over 1,000 games played!

2. Kazuyoshi Miura (56)

Japan’s Kazuyoshi Miura (commonly referred to as “King Kazu”) currently plays as a striker for Oliveira do Hospital in the third tier of Portuguese soccer. He started his professional career with Santos in Brazil before eventually returning to Japan to play for Verdy Kawasaki. 

He has played professionally for over 35 years which makes him one of the oldest active soccer players in the world. Miura has also played for the Japanese national team, earning 89 caps along with scoring 55 goals but is yet to officially retire from international soccer! As one of the oldest soccer players, he has proven an inspiration to younger players by highlighting that age doesn’t have to be a barrier to succeed in soccer.

1. Robert Carmona (61)

Of all the oldest soccer players of all-time Robert Carmona tops the list. The Uruguayan plays as a centre-back and captains fourth-division club Hacele Un Gol a la Vida. He has also featured in the lower leagues of United States, Canada, Spain and Italy for a rumoured thirty teams in total and over 2,200 official matches!

Carmona started his professional career as far back as 1976. He was originally a playmaker and holds the Guinness World Record for the longest soccer career. Carmona also holds the record for the player with the biggest gap between spells at a club, featuring for La Luz F.C.in 1984-85 before finally returning 24 years later in 2009. Despite having undergone eight operations due to injury, Carmona has stated his intention to continue playing soccer well into his sixties, further cementing his status at the top of the list of oldest soccer players of all time.