The 20 Greatest Real Madrid Players in Champions League History. With 15 Champions League titles, Real Madrid is synonymous with greatness in European football

This remarkable achievement is the result of legendary performances from players who have defined the history of the competition. Below is a ranking of the 20 iconic individuals who played key roles in guiding the club to the peak of European football.

Cristiano Ronaldo
The undisputed champion of the Champions League, with 105 goals in 101 appearances for Real Madrid. His crucial hat-tricks in 2016 and 2017 were instrumental in securing four European titles, symbolizing Madrid’s dominance in the competition.

Alfredo Di Stéfano
The mastermind behind Real Madrid’s early success. Between 1956 and 1960, Di Stéfano led the team to five consecutive titles, scoring in each final. Nicknamed “La Saeta Rubia” (The Blonde Arrow), he laid the groundwork for Real Madrid’s European legacy.

Sergio Ramos
The iconic captain, Ramos was the go-to player in crucial finals. His equalizer in the 2014 final against Atlético Madrid clinched the club’s 10th title. With three Champions League victories (2014, 2016, 2017), he embodied leadership and resilience.

Raúl González
Known as “The Señor Real Madrid,” Raúl was the club’s all-time top scorer before Ronaldo. With three Champions League titles (1998, 2000, 2002), he represented consistency and leadership for over a decade.

Karim Benzema
A pivotal figure in attack following Ronaldo’s departure, Benzema made history by scoring 15 goals in the victorious 2021-2022 campaign, including a memorable hat-trick against Chelsea.

Luka Modrić
The Croatian genius, Modrić was the engine of Real Madrid’s midfield, playing a vital role in victories in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018. His intelligence and vision on the field elevated him to legendary status.

Marcelo
Regarded as one of the greatest left-backs in football history, Marcelo played a crucial part in the club’s four consecutive titles in the 2010s. His flair and attacking creativity left a lasting impact.

Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian goalkeeper, Courtois was instrumental in securing Real Madrid’s 14th title, making nine crucial saves in the 2022 final against Liverpool. Since joining, he’s been an irreplaceable figure in Madrid’s defense.

Casemiro
A perfect blend of defense and attack, Casemiro played a silent yet indispensable role in Real Madrid’s successes from 2014 to 2018.

Vinícius Júnior
At just 24, Vinícius has already cemented his place as a Champions League hero, scoring decisive goals in the 2022 and 2024 finals. He has emerged as the future of Madrid’s attack.

Other Legends:

Zinedine Zidane – His unforgettable volley in 2002 is one of the competition’s greatest moments.
Gareth Bale – His two goals in the 2018 final against Liverpool remain etched in memory.
Toni Kroos – A midfield stalwart, known for his precise and strategic passing.
Iker Casillas – A legendary goalkeeper and captain, key during the Decima campaign.

Fernando Hierro – A rock-solid defender from the 1990s and a key defensive figure for the club.
Hugo Sánchez – The Mexican striker who made a significant impact during the 1980s.
Roberto Carlos – His relentless energy and powerful shots marked an unforgettable era.
Paco Gento – The only player to win six Champions League titles, solidifying his place as a true early legend.
Manuel Sanchís – The captain during the club’s victories in 1998 and 2000.
Ricardo Zamora – A legendary goalkeeper and hero in the club’s formative years.

The Future Secured with New Generations
With rising stars like Vinícius Júnior, Thibaut Courtois, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler, Real Madrid is well-positioned to keep adding glorious chapters to their Champions League history.