Was Johan Cruyff as Good as Maradona and Pele?

Comparing Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona, and Pelé to determine who was the greatest footballer is no easy task.Each player brought unique styles, achievements, and legacies to the sport. Let's delve into the intricacies of their careers.

Comparing the Legends

Comparing Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona, and Pelé is a complex endeavor, as each player had a distinct playing style and impact on the game.

Johan Cruyff

Playing Style: Cruyff was renowned for his on-field intelligence, technical skills, and vision. He was a pioneer in creating football tactics that have influenced the modern game.

Key Achievements:

Won three Ballon d'Or awards in 1971, 1973, and 1974 Helped the Netherlands reach the 1974 World Cup final Won multiple league titles and European Cups with Ajax and Barcelona

Legacy: Cruyff's influence extended beyond his playing days, influencing coaching and shaping modern football tactics.

Diego Maradona

Playing Style: Maradona was celebrated for his exceptional dribbling ability, creativity, and flair. He was a dynamic playmaker capable of single-handedly changing the course of a game.

Key Achievements:

Led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup, delivering unforgettable performances Won multiple titles, particularly with Napoli

Legacy: Maradona is often praised for his ability to inspire both on and off the pitch. He is remembered for his larger-than-life personality.

Pelé

Playing Style: Combining speed, skill, and a powerful shot, Pelé was one of the most prolific goal scorers in history. Known for his athleticism, he thrived under pressure.

Key Achievements:

Three-time World Cup winner (1958, 1962, 1970); a record that still stands Scored over 1000 career goals, including many in World Cup tournaments

Legacy: Often referred to as the greatest player in history, Pelé's impact on football is immeasurable.

Arguably the Greatest Playmaker

While Pelé is celebrated for his goal-scoring prowess, and Maradona for his dribbling artistry, Cruyff is widely regarded as the greatest playmaker in the history of the sport.

Cruyff's Key Statistics:

358 assists, second only to Puskás (362) Assisted 24.38% of all team goals he didn't score 83 progressive passes (11.86 per 90)

Notable Performances:

1974 World Cup: 3 goals, 3 assists in 7 games, 0.86 shots on target per 90, 36 chances created per game (5.14 p90) Career Goals per 90: 1.08 (higher than Cristiano Ronaldo) Defensive Contribution: 9 tackles, 13 interceptions, 1 clearance (demonstrated his all-around capabilities)

Cruyff's career achievements include:

9x Eredivisie titles 6x Dutch Cup 1x La Liga 1x Copa del Rey 3x European Cup 1x Intercontinental Cup

Achievements with Ajax and Barcelona: As the core of the 1970-73 Ajax squad, which is one of, if not the best club sides in history.

Comparison Against Pele and Maradona

Against Pelé:

Pele was an even better scorer with a better goals-per-90 ratio and more game-winning goals. Playmaking wise, Cruyff was better, but Pele had better assisting and overall playmaking abilities.

Against Maradona:

Cruyff was a better scorer in terms of goals-per-game ratio and more complete, but Maradona had better dribbling and ball-carrier abilities. Maradona played with weaker teams, but he also had a better record in terms of team goals scored. Cruyff had better passing abilities and vision, and an edge in longevity.

While many would argue that Pelé was the greatest of all time, a case can be made for Cruyff being the best playmaker in history.