The Top 10 Football Players with Most Trophies in History

Winning trophies is the ultimate measure of success in football. While countless players have graced the beautiful game with extraordinary talent, only a handful have consistently added silverware to their careers at the very highest level. These are the men who thrived under pressure, became icons for both club and country, and ultimately earned a place in history through their achievements.

In this article, we celebrate the football players with most trophies, starting from the 10th position and working our way to the ultimate champion at number one.

10. Xavi Hernández – 33 Trophies

Xavi Hernández, a midfield maestro and one of the greatest Spanish footballers ever, sits in tenth place with 33 trophies to his name.

Most of his triumphs came during his time at FC Barcelona, where he became the heartbeat of the team under Pep Guardiola. Xavi was pivotal in Barcelona’s famous sextuple-winning 2009-10 season, orchestrating play with unmatched vision.

Internationally, Xavi played a vital role in Spain’s golden era, helping La Roja win the 2008 UEFA Euro, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the 2012 UEFA Euro.

Interestingly, Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimović is tied with him on 33 trophies, though Xavi’s impact as a midfield general often gives him the edge in such discussions.

9. Vítor Baía – 34 Trophies

Goalkeepers rarely dominate trophy lists, but Vítor Baía, the legendary Portuguese shot-stopper, stands out with 34 trophies.

Baía’s career was defined by his long association with FC Porto, where he won 25 trophies, including multiple Primeira Liga titles and the 2004 UEFA Champions League under José Mourinho.

Before his Porto dominance, Baía also played for Barcelona, where he lifted several domestic trophies in Spain. His reflexes, leadership, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments made him one of the most decorated keepers in football history.

8. Cristiano Ronaldo – 36 Trophies

When speaking of greatness, Cristiano Ronaldo’s name is unavoidable. With 36 trophies, he remains one of the most iconic football players with most trophies.

Ronaldo has lifted silverware in England, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. His record includes:

3 Premier League titles and a Champions League with Manchester United.
2 La Liga titles, 4 Champions Leagues, and numerous domestic cups with Real Madrid.
2 Serie A titles with Juventus.
On the international stage, Ronaldo guided Portugal to victory in the 2016 UEFA Euro and the 2019 UEFA Nations League.

In 2025, he celebrated his 36th career trophy, leading Portugal to another Nations League triumph, showing his hunger remains intact.

7. Kenny Dalglish – 35 Trophies

Scottish legend Kenny Dalglish secured 35 trophies during his storied career. A Liverpool icon, Dalglish was the heart of the club’s golden generation in the 1970s and 80s.

With Liverpool, he won 6 English league titles, 3 European Cups, and multiple domestic honors. His leadership and attacking brilliance made him a hero at Anfield.

Dalglish also had success at Celtic, where he lifted four Scottish league titles before moving to England. Beyond his playing days, he even returned as Liverpool’s manager in 2011, further strengthening his legacy.

6. Ryan Giggs – 36 Trophies

Welsh winger Ryan Giggs is a Manchester United icon and a member of the famous “Class of 92.” With 36 trophies, he shares this spot with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Giggs spent his entire career at Old Trafford, becoming one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s most trusted players. His incredible haul includes:

13 Premier League titles (a record for any player).
2 UEFA Champions League trophies.
4 FA Cups and 3 League Cups.

Giggs’ longevity and adaptability—from a tricky winger to a composed midfielder—made him invaluable to United’s dominance for over two decades.

5. Gerard Piqué – 37 Trophies

Spanish defender Gerard Piqué amassed 37 trophies before retiring, making him one of the most successful defenders ever.

Piqué began his career at Manchester United, winning four trophies, including the 2008 UEFA Champions League. But his true success came at Barcelona, where he became the backbone of the defense.

He lifted 3 Champions League titles with Barça and was part of Spain’s golden era, winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2012 UEFA Euro.

Piqué’s ability to perform in the biggest matches made him a true winner.

4. Maxwell – 37 Trophies

Brazilian full-back Maxwell is often overlooked, yet his 37 trophies across Europe speak volumes.

A consistent and reliable defender, Maxwell played for Ajax, Inter Milan, Barcelona, and PSG, winning league titles in Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France.

Though not always the star, Maxwell was the kind of player managers trusted for stability and discipline. His career is proof that success often comes to those who quietly but effectively do their jobs.

3. Andrés Iniesta – 39 Trophies

A midfield magician, Andrés Iniesta won 39 trophies in a career filled with artistry and class.

Iniesta’s passing, dribbling, and composure defined Barcelona’s tiki-taka dominance. He won 9 La Liga titles, 4 Champions Leagues, and countless cups at Camp Nou.

On the international stage, Iniesta scored the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final and lifted two UEFA Euro trophies with Spain.

Even after leaving Europe, he continued winning silverware in Japan with Vissel Kobe, proving his influence extended beyond Spain.

2. Dani Alves – 43 Trophies

With 43 trophies, Dani Alves is the most decorated defender in history and was long considered the player with the highest silverware count.

At Barcelona, Alves was central to their dominance, winning multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. He also secured trophies with Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, and São Paulo.

Internationally, Alves added two Copa Americas, two Confederations Cups, and an Olympic gold medal with Brazil. His energy, longevity, and adaptability ensured he consistently won at the highest level.

1. Lionel Messi – 46 Trophies

At the summit of our list is none other than Lionel Messi, the player with the most trophies in football history, totaling 46.

His glittering career includes:

10 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Reys, and 4 Champions Leagues with Barcelona.
2 Ligue 1 titles with PSG.
1 Leagues Cup with Inter Miami.
International triumphs: Copa America 2021, World Cup 2022, Finalissima 2022, and Copa America 2024.

Messi’s consistency, brilliance, and leadership ensured he surpassed Dani Alves to become the greatest among the football players with most trophies.

Comparison Table – Top 10 Players with Most Trophies

Rank	Player	Nationality	Trophies Won	Major Highlights
10	Xavi Hernández	Spain	33	World Cup, 2 Euros, 4 UCLs
9	Vítor Baía	Portugal	34	Champions League, 25 with Porto
8	Cristiano Ronaldo	Portugal	36	5 UCLs, Euro 2016, Nations League
7	Kenny Dalglish	Scotland	35	3 European Cups, 6 League titles
6	Ryan Giggs	Wales	36	13 Premier Leagues, 2 UCLs
5	Gerard Piqué	Spain	37	World Cup, Euro 2012, 4 UCLs
4	Maxwell	Brazil	37	League titles in 4 countries
3	Andrés Iniesta	Spain	39	World Cup, 2 Euros, 4 UCLs
2	Dani Alves	Brazil	43	2 Copa Americas, 3 UCLs
1	Lionel Messi	Argentina	46	World Cup, 2 Copa Americas, 4 UCLs

The pursuit of silverware has always been the measure of footballing greatness. From Xavi’s midfield brilliance to Lionel Messi’s unmatched dominance, these legends are remembered not just for their skills but for how often they lifted trophies.

While records may be broken in the future, Messi currently stands atop the mountain as the king of the football players with most trophies.

FAQ

Who is the football player with the most trophies in history?

Lionel Messi holds the record with 46 trophies, including titles with Barcelona, PSG, Inter Miami, and Argentina.

Which defender has won the most trophies?

Brazilian right-back Dani Alves is the most decorated defender, with 43 trophies across clubs and international competitions.

How many trophies has Cristiano Ronaldo won?

Cristiano Ronaldo has won 36 trophies in his career, including 5 UEFA Champions League titles and major honors with Portugal.