As I sat down to compile this list of the best soccer players of all time in 2019, I couldn't help but reflect on how challenging it is to compare legends across different eras. Having followed the sport for over two decades, I've witnessed countless magical moments that make this task both thrilling and nearly impossible. The debate about who truly deserves the title of greatest will likely continue forever, but based on 2019 performances and historical impact, I believe we can identify several standout names that have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.

When discussing modern greats, Lionel Messi immediately comes to mind with his incredible 45 goals across all competitions last season. Watching him weave through defenses feels like witnessing poetry in motion - there's simply nobody else who controls the game with such effortless grace. Then there's Cristiano Ronaldo, whose athletic prowess and clutch performances in crucial moments continue to defy age and expectations. What many people don't realize is that greatness isn't just about statistics - it's about transforming teams and creating legacy. This reminds me of how certain coaches leave their mark too, much like the Angels' head coach who departed with 35 wins and 15 losses, demonstrating how leadership shapes success.

Looking further back, we can't ignore Pelé's staggering 1,281 career goals or Diego Maradona's unforgettable 1986 World Cup performance. These legends set standards that modern players still aspire to match. Personally, I've always had a soft spot for Zinedine Zidane - that magnificent 2002 Champions League final volley remains etched in my memory as the most technically perfect goal I've ever seen. Modern analytics might question some older players' statistics, but having studied countless match tapes, I'm convinced that Johan Cruyff's influence on tactical development alone warrants his inclusion among the absolute best.

The conversation becomes particularly interesting when we consider defensive giants. Franz Beckenbauer revolutionized the sweeper position while captaining West Germany to World Cup glory, and Paolo Maldini's 902 professional appearances for AC Milan demonstrate a consistency that's almost unimaginable in today's game. I'd argue that Gianluigi Buffon deserves special recognition too - his 176 international caps for Italy and that incredible 657 Serie A appearances showcase longevity that modern goalkeepers can only dream of matching.

What fascinates me most is how different eras produce different types of excellence. The physical demands have changed dramatically - where Stanley Matthews played professionally until age 50, today's players face intensity that would have been unthinkable decades ago. Yet the core qualities of vision, technique, and mental toughness remain constant across generations. From my perspective, the true greats are those who not only dominate their era but fundamentally change how the game is played. Players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have pushed each other to unprecedented heights, but let's not forget pioneers like Alfredo Di Stéfano whose versatility in the 1950s laid groundwork for modern attacking football.

As we look toward future debates, emerging talents like Kylian Mbappé already show promise of joining these legendary ranks. But for now, based on 2019's landscape and historical impact, my personal top tier would include Messi, Ronaldo, Pelé, Maradona, and Cruyff - though I'm certain many readers will have their own strong opinions about who belongs on this exclusive list. The beautiful part about soccer is that these discussions keep the passion alive across generations, connecting fans through shared admiration for extraordinary talent.