Liverpool FC, one of the most storied institutions in world football, has been home to numerous legendary figures since its inception in 1892. This iconic club, steeped in rich history and tradition, has built a legacy that has seen it rise to become one of the most successful teams in England and Europe. A significant part of this success lies in the incredible talent that has graced the Anfield turf throughout the decades.

From the charismatic ‘King’ Kenny Dalglish to the inspirational Steven Gerrard, from the stunning goal-scoring exploits of Robbie Fowler and Ian Rush to the modern-day heroes like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, these players have etched their names into Liverpool’s folklore, ensuring their legendary status.

Indeed, the latter duo’s roles in securing their second league title of the Premier League era has cemented their legacy even further at Anfield, but where do they feature among the greatest players in Liverpool’s history? We here at GIVEMESPORT have ranked the 25 best-ever players to pull on the famous red shirt.

Ranking factors

Given how difficult such a list is, we have taken multiple aspects into consideration when making our selections, including:

• Overall stats including goals, assists and games played
• Trophies won and any individual honours
• The impact they had

25

Sadio Mane

2016-2022

Sadio Mane came, saw, and conquered during his six years at Liverpool. He was Jurgen Klopp’s first senior signing, and the rest, as they say, is history. In 269 appearances, the Senegalese winger scored 120 goals, provided his teammates with 40 assists, and won the Champions League and Premier League in 2019 and 2020.

What’s more, he always did his business in such kind fashion, ensuring that he would never not leave a legend of the club. The amount of charity work he has done behind the scenes is admirable, and many players of his generation could certainly take some lessons from the now-Al Nassr forward.

24

Michael Owen

1996–2004

Michael Owen burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old, scoring on his Liverpool debut. It was a sign of things to come. Blessed with blistering pace and a clinical finishing ability, Owen quickly established himself as one of Europe’s top strikers. In 2001, his performances earned him the Ballon d’Or, the last Englishman to win the prestigious award to date.

Owen’s goals were vital during the treble-winning season of 2000-01, including scoring a brace in the FA Cup final against Arsenal to secure victory. Despite leaving Liverpool at a relatively young age, Owen’s contributions to the club ensure he remains one of their greatest-ever players, though you won’t hear many Liverpool fans agreeing after he signed a deal with the deal when he joined Manchester United.

23

Roberto Firmino

2015–2023

None of Liverpool’s successes since 2018, which include Premier League and Champions League titles, would have happened without Roberto Firmino, and Jurgen Klopp will be the first person to admit that. Right up until his final game for the club, Firmino was an integral part of Liverpool’s attacking triumvirate. His unselfishness, work rate, and skill at dropping deep to link up play were central to Liverpool’s attacking style under Klopp, ensuring that the likes of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane were able to score as many goals as they did.

Known for his “no-look” goals and flamboyant celebrations, Firmino’s contributions extend beyond his goalscoring exploits. His ability to press high up the pitch and disrupt the opposition’s play was instrumental in implementing Klopp’s Gegenpressing philosophy, the main reason Liverpool were so difficult to play against.

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22

Alisson Becker

2018–Present

The arrival of Alisson Becker marked a turning point in Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool’s fortunes. The Brazilian goalkeeper’s agility, quick reflexes, and exceptional ball distribution significantly contributed to Liverpool’s defensive strength.

With his calm demeanour and ability to pull off remarkable saves in crucial moments, Alisson has been a defining figure in Liverpool’s Champions League and Premier League triumphs. The Brazilian’s overwhelming influence on Liverpool’s renaissance can’t be understated, and he continues to be a vital cog in the team’s success, as arguably the best player in his position on the planet. Alisson even managed to score for Liverpool – famously winning a crucial game against West Bromwich Albion as the Reds secured Champions League qualification in 2021.

21

Trent Alexander-Arnold

2016-2025

Now a villain on Merseyside, Trent Alexander-Arnold had all the ingredients to become one of Liverpool’s very best. Not just top 25, but more like top five. A destined club captain, the Scouser won the Champions League and Premier League before his career really got started, but instead of following in the footsteps of Steven Gerrard, he has opted to go the Michael Owen and Steve McManaman route, joining Real Madrid for free in 2025.

He holds the record for most assists by a defender in Premier League history, and his dreams of winning a Ballon d’Or could well be fulfilled in Madrid. However, that’s no use to the Anfield faithful, who will forever feel divided by the right-back for turning his back on a club he loved since he was a kid. A recent second Premier League title – which sparked scenes of raw passion from the right-back – will mean very little after his heart-breaking move to Madrid.

20

Sammy Lee

1976–1986

Known for his tireless work ethic and ability to score important goals, Sammy Lee was a vital cog in Liverpool’s winning machine during the 1980s. Despite his diminutive stature, Lee had a significant presence on the pitch. His energetic performances and never-say-die attitude made him a fan favourite at Anfield.

During his time at Liverpool, Lee won numerous domestic and continental honours, including three league titles and two European Cups. While his contributions may not have grabbed headlines, Lee’s importance to Liverpool’s success during this period cannot be overlooked. “With the character and attitude he shows, they’d make him Mayor of Liverpool if he were a few inches taller,” the club’s legendary manager, Bob Paisley, said of the 5ft 4in tyro.

19

Jamie Carragher

1996–2013

Jamie Carragher epitomised loyalty, passion, and commitment during his 17-year stint with Liverpool, symbolising just how much it meant to wear the famous red shirt. Carragher was a versatile defender, capable of playing across the backline, but it was at centre-back where he excelled. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and excellent reading of the game, Carragher was a stalwart in Liverpool’s defence.

His never-say-die attitude was best showcased during the miraculous 2005 Champions League victory, where he played through pain to help Liverpool secure their fifth European Cup. At the end of that triumphant campaign, Carragher was voted as the club’s Player of the Season. With 737 appearances for Liverpool, the proud Scouser’s legacy at Anfield is firmly entrenched.

18

Ray Kennedy

1974–1982

Perhaps a name that younger fans might not know, but the importance of Ray Kennedy to Liverpool’s history cannot be overstated. Kennedy was a versatile player, adept at playing in midfield or attack, and made significant contributions to Liverpool during the 1970s and ’80s.

Originally signed as a forward, Kennedy transitioned to a left-midfield role under Bob Paisley, where he thrived. His strength, accurate passing, and knack for scoring made him an invaluable asset to the team. With Kennedy in the squad, Liverpool won five league titles and three European Cups. It was the former Arsenal forward’s quick throw which teed up his namesake Alan Kennedy for the only goal against Real Madrid in the 1981 European Cup final, as Liverpool remain one of the only teams to beat Los Blancos in a major final.

17

Ronnie Whelan

1979–1994

An intelligent midfielder with excellent passing and shooting skills, Ronnie Whelan was a key component of Liverpool’s dominant sides in the 1980s. His versatility allowed him to operate in various midfield roles, and his ability to score from long range was a significant asset for the team.

Whelan’s performances were marked by consistency and reliability, with his knack for scoring crucial goals in big games setting him apart. During his time at Anfield, Whelan won six league titles, half a dozen domestic cups and the 1984 European Cup – underlining his importance to one of the most successful sides in Liverpool’s history.

16

Tommy Smith

1962-1978

Tommy Smith was the embodiment of Liverpool’s working-class grit and determination – a defender who struck fear into opponents with his uncompromising style. Nicknamed “The Anfield Iron,” Smith was as tough as they came, a player who made sure anyone daring to cross his path felt it. Bill Shankly once famously said of him: “Tommy Smith wasn’t born, he was quarried.” That summed him up perfectly—he was a rock at the back, immovable and relentless.

Smith played over 600 games for Liverpool between 1962 and 1978, winning four league titles, a European Cup, two FA Cups, and two UEFA Cups. While his reputation was built on sheer toughness, he was also an intelligent, disciplined player who led by example. His crowning moment came in the 1977 European Cup final, when, at 32 years old, he powered home a header to help Liverpool secure their first-ever triumph in the competition. A warrior until the very end, Tommy Smith wasn’t just a defender – he was a symbol of Liverpool’s never-say-die spirit.