Former Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard has been recognized as the best player for Liverpool in the 21st century by the football website Goal. This acknowledgment comes as no surprise to many, given Gerrard’s significant impact during his time at Anfield. Making his debut in 1998, Gerrard quickly became a key figure for the club. Throughout his 17-year career with Liverpool, he helped secure numerous titles, including two FA Cups, three League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League in 2005, where he famously inspired a remarkable comeback in the final against AC Milan.
Gerrard’s leadership, exceptional passing, and powerful long-range shots made him a standout player. He consistently delivered memorable performances and was known for stepping up in crucial moments. In addition to his club success, he earned 114 caps for the England national team, further solidifying his status as one of football’s greats. Being named the best Liverpool player of the 21st century reflects his lasting legacy and the profound impact he had on the club’s history, making him a beloved figure among fans.
Gerrard, 44, played for Liverpool from 1998 to 2015. During his time with the Reds, the midfielder won a total of 11 trophies, including the Champions League, UEFA Cup, two UEFA Super Cups, two FA Cups, three League Cups, and two FA Community Shields. His contributions on the field and his leadership qualities have left an indelible mark on the club’s history, making him a legend among fans.
Gerrard’s tenure at Liverpool was marked by memorable moments and crucial performances. One of the highlights was the 2005 UEFA Champions League final, often referred to as the “Miracle of Istanbul,” where he led the team to an extraordinary comeback against AC Milan. Trailing 3-0 at halftime, Gerrard’s passion and determination inspired the team, culminating in a 3-3 draw and eventual victory in the penalty shootout. This match solidified his legacy as a player who thrived under pressure and showcased his exceptional leadership. Following Gerrard in the ranking is Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah, who has made a tremendous impact since joining Liverpool in 2017. Salah quickly became a fan favorite, known for his incredible speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability. In his first season, he broke records by scoring 32 goals in a 38-game Premier League season, earning the Premier League Golden Boot. His contributions helped Liverpool secure their first Premier League title in 30 years during the 2019-2020 season, further cementing his status as one of the club’s greats.
In third place is Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, who had a sensational stint with Liverpool from 2011 to 2014. Suarez was a prolific goal scorer, known for his technical skills and creativity. He won the Premier League Golden Boot in 2014 and was instrumental in leading the team to a second-place finish in the league that year. His remarkable ability to change games and score spectacular goals made him a standout player during his time at the club. The fourth spot in the ranking goes to Dutch central defender Virgil van Dijk. Since joining Liverpool in January 2018, Van Dijk has transformed the team’s defense. His commanding presence, leadership qualities, and ability to read the game have made him one of the best defenders in the world. Van Dijk played a crucial role in Liverpool’s Champions League victory in 2019 and their Premier League title win in 2020. His impact on the squad is undeniable, and he continues to be a vital part of the team’s success.
Completing the top five is Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Since his arrival in 2018, Alisson has been instrumental in solidifying Liverpool’s defense. His exceptional shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure, and skills with the ball at his feet have made him one of the top goalkeepers in the world. Alisson played a key role in Liverpool’s recent triumphs, including their Champions League and Premier League victories. His contributions have not only helped secure vital points but have also provided confidence to the entire backline. Overall, this ranking highlights the incredible talent that has graced Anfield over the past two decades. Each of these players has contributed significantly to Liverpool’s rich history and has played a crucial role in the club’s successes. As Liverpool continues to compete at the highest level, the legacy of Gerrard, Salah, Suarez, Van Dijk, and Alisson will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players and fans alike. The impact of these individuals on the club’s culture, success, and identity is profound, and they will forever be remembered as some of the greatest players in Liverpool’s storied history.
With a strong foundation built on the contributions of these legends, Liverpool looks forward to future successes while honoring the legacy of its past stars. The club’s ambition remains high, aiming to add more silverware and continue its journey as one of the elite teams in world football. As new talents emerge, the influence of Gerrard, Salah, Suarez, Van Dijk, and Alisson will continue to resonate, shaping the next chapter in Liverpool’s illustrious history.
