The All-Time Top 10 Muslim Soccer Players
One of football's greatest qualities is its capacity cut across boundaries, countries, and religions. People from many walks of life can come togetherto and share a common passion thanks to this lovely game.
Because of this, we have seen a number of outstanding football players from various religious backgrounds emerge and make a lasting impression on the game. The outstanding accomplishments of the top ten Muslim football players of all time are honored in this article.
Not only are these athletes admired for their extraordinary accomplishments on the field, but they are also held in high regard for serving as role models for millions of young Muslims worldwide. These Muslim football players have redefined what it means to be a football legend, and their influence on the game is still felt today. They have done everything from shatter records to lead their clubs to success in various championships.
Top Muslim Football Players
Football is frequently associated with legendary players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Nonetheless, Muslim football players have made enormous contributions to the sport that should not be disregarded.Regardless of their religious views, football fans are now one in their love for the game. In actuality, there has been a notable decline in racial and religious prejudice in recent years. We hope to honor the accomplishments of a few of the best Muslim football players who have contributed significantly to both their individual teams and the beautiful game overall with this post.
| # | Name | Club | National Team |
| 1 | Zinedine Zidane | Retired | France (Retired) |
| 2 | Mohammad Salah | Liverpool | Egypt |
| 3 | Karim Benzema | Real Madrid | France |
| 4 | Mesut Özil | Retired | Germany (Retired) |
| 5 | Sadio Mane | Bayern Munich | Senegal |
| 6 | N’Golo Kante | Chelsea | France |
| 7 | Franck Ribery | Retired | Retired (France) |
| 8 | Riyad Mahrez | Manchester City | Algeria |
| 9 | Edin Dzeko | Inter Milan | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| 10 | Paul Pogba | Juventus | France |
Paul Pogba
The tenth player in our list of the greatest Muslim football players of all time is Paul Pogba, a French football player of Guinean descent. Born in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, on March 15, 1993, Paul Pogba is one of the most well-known Muslim football players.
Pogba was not brought up in a strictly Islamic home, but as an adult he became closer to his faith. Since then, he has emerged as a prominent supporter of Islam, utilizing his position as a professional football player to encourage tolerance and knowledge of the Muslim faith.
Pogba was not brought up in a strictly Islamic home, but as an adult he became closer to his faith. Since then, he has emerged as a prominent supporter of Islam, utilizing his position as a professional football player to encourage tolerance and knowledge of the Muslim faith.
In an interview with Life Times podcast, Pogba stated:
"Not everyone has the same perception of Islam. In actuality, what we hear in the media is not accurate. [Islam] is a lovely religion.
Pogba has established himself as a top midfield player throughout his career by playing brilliantly for teams like Juventus and Manchester United. For his club and the French national team, he is an essential player because of his strength, technique, and playing range.
With Juventus and Manchester United, the Frenchman has won multiple trophies. Pogba won two Italian cups and four straight Serie A championships with Juventus. Along with Manchester United, Pogba also won two English League cups and the Europa League. Paul Pogba is a French national team player who won the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has scored a goal in the World Cup final.
With Juventus and Manchester United, the Frenchman has won multiple trophies. Pogba won two Italian cups and four straight Serie A championships with Juventus. Along with Manchester United, Pogba also won two English League cups and the Europa League. Paul Pogba is a French national team player who won the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has scored a goal in the World Cup final.
Edin Dzeko
Born in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on March 17, 1986, Edin Dzeko is a well-known figure on lists of the greatest Muslim football players. Recognized for his propensity to score goals, Dzeko has made an impact in two of the best European leagues: Serie A with AS Roma and the Premier League with Manchester City.
Dzeko is getting closer to joining Inter Milan in the Champions League final as of 2023, when he plays for the Italian team in Serie A.
Dzeko is getting closer to joining Inter Milan in the Champions League final as of 2023, when he plays for the Italian team in Serie A.
Many aspiring Muslim athletes look forward to Dzeko because he is a devout Muslim. His ascent to the top of European football from war-torn Sarajevo has been characterized by tenacity, fortitude, and unwavering faith.
Edin Dzeko, despite his aura leading people to believe he is a Christian, is actually a fervent disciple of Islam who devotes himself entirely to its teachings and keeps the holy Ramadan fast with steadfast devotion.
Riyad Mahrez
Born in Sarcelles, France on February 21, 1991, Riyad Mahrez is one of the Muslim football world's greatest players. Mahrez, who is a star winger for Manchester City, one of the top teams in the Premier League, has won multiple awards for his exceptional abilities.
Mahrez was the driving force behind Leicester City's historic 2015–16 Premier League victory. With Manchester City, the Algerian prodigy has also won three Premier League championships, three League Cups, and one FA Cup.
Born and raised in Algeria, Mahrez's identity is closely linked to his Islamic beliefs. His rise from Sarcelles' streets to the pinnacle of European football is evidence of his brilliance, tenacity, and faith.
Franck Ribery
Born on April 7, 1983, Franck Ribery is a former professional football player who made a bright impression on the Muslim community in football. Ribery overcame hardship to become one of the greatest wingers of all time, playing for major teams like Bayern Munich and the French national team, despite suffering a terrible automobile accident as a youngster.
The French winger spent a long time winning numerous titles with Bayern Munich. One of the most accomplished football players of our time, Ribery has won six German Cups and nine Bundesliga championships. Along with Bayern Munich, Franck Ribery was the winner of the coveted Champions League in the 2012–13 season.
The French winger spent a long time winning numerous titles with Bayern Munich. One of the most accomplished football players of our time, Ribery has won six German Cups and nine Bundesliga championships. Along with Bayern Munich, Franck Ribery was the winner of the coveted Champions League in the 2012–13 season.
After converting to Islam in 2002, Ribery has continuously exhibited the tenets of his religion both on and off the pitch. His experiences in the European divisions and his steadfast adherence to his religious beliefs have had a profound effect on the football community.
In a 2013 interview with Anadolu Agency, Franck Ribery candidly acknowledged that his strength has come from Islam.
"My religion is a personal matter. As a believer, I feel that ever since I committed to Islam, my physical and mental strength has increased. Neither my personality nor my view of the world were altered by religion.
N'golo Kante, a prominent f
N’Golo Kante
igure among Muslim football players, was born in Paris, France, on March 29, 1991. Kante, who is well-known for his unwavering work ethic and superb defensive abilities, has contributed significantly to the victories of Chelsea F.C. and Leicester City, two of the Premier League's most successful teams.
Kante shared the 2015–16 Premier League championship with his former teammate Riyad Mahrez at Leicester City. After that, he joined Chelsea, where he helped the team win the Champions League, Europa League, and Premier League in 2016–17. N'Golo Kante helped the French national team win the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
One of the very sweetest football players is N'golo Kante, who always has a smile on his face when playing. Being a devoted Muslim, Kante is well-liked in the Muslim community for his humility and generosity off the field. Beyond the field, his impact as a professional football player cultivates an atmosphere of deference and comprehension for the Islamic faith.
Kante shared the 2015–16 Premier League championship with his former teammate Riyad Mahrez at Leicester City. After that, he joined Chelsea, where he helped the team win the Champions League, Europa League, and Premier League in 2016–17. N'Golo Kante helped the French national team win the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
One of the very sweetest football players is N'golo Kante, who always has a smile on his face when playing. Being a devoted Muslim, Kante is well-liked in the Muslim community for his humility and generosity off the field. Beyond the field, his impact as a professional football player cultivates an atmosphere of deference and comprehension for the Islamic faith.
Sadio Mane
One of the greatest Muslim football players of all time is Sadio Mane. Sadio Mane is a gifted football player from Sedhiou, Senegal, who is renowned for his quick reflexes, captivating dribbling abilities, and uncommon capacity to score important goals. Mane is a devout Muslim, and his commitment to the religion is demonstrated by his behavior both on and off the field.
The Senegalese, who was born on April 10, 1992, has solidified his place as an important member of Bayern Munich, one of the most prominent football teams in the world. Mane has been instrumental in helping his former team, Liverpool, win multiple major titles throughout the years, including both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Mane has established himself as a formidable force on the field thanks to his superb ball control and tactical skill, encouraging young football players all over the world to follow in his footsteps and work hard and passionately toward their goals.
Sadio Mane has frequently discussed how his Muslim faith has impacted his approach to play and how it is an integral part of his life. He stated in an interview that he places a high value on his faith. It gives me courage and keeps my attention on my objectives. The Senegalese has gained popularity due to his outstanding on-field exploits and unwavering commitment to his faith.
The Senegalese, who was born on April 10, 1992, has solidified his place as an important member of Bayern Munich, one of the most prominent football teams in the world. Mane has been instrumental in helping his former team, Liverpool, win multiple major titles throughout the years, including both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Mane has established himself as a formidable force on the field thanks to his superb ball control and tactical skill, encouraging young football players all over the world to follow in his footsteps and work hard and passionately toward their goals.
Sadio Mane has frequently discussed how his Muslim faith has impacted his approach to play and how it is an integral part of his life. He stated in an interview that he places a high value on his faith. It gives me courage and keeps my attention on my objectives. The Senegalese has gained popularity due to his outstanding on-field exploits and unwavering commitment to his faith.
Mesut Özil
The German professional football player Mesut Özil has been an integral part of the top European leagues. Özil, who was born on October 15, 1988, is well-known for his inventiveness and unparalleled vision when playing football. Highlights of his career have included winning World Cups with the German national team in 2014 and productive seasons with Real Madrid and Arsenal.
Özil's accomplishments at Arsenal were two English Super Cups and four FA Cups. He won a La Liga title, a Spanish Cup, and a Spanish Super Cup, making him a great asset to Real Madrid as well. In 2014, Mesut Özil won the FIFA World Cup in Brazil with the German national team. Özil is ranked in the top ten players in football history for assists.
Özil is an observant Muslim who has frequently spoken out against Islamophobia. She is a third-generation Turkish-German. His influence goes beyond sports, as he promotes tolerance and respect in the face of discrimination based on religion.
Özil is an observant Muslim who has frequently spoken out against Islamophobia. She is a third-generation Turkish-German. His influence goes beyond sports, as he promotes tolerance and respect in the face of discrimination based on religion.
In a tweet, Özil referenced a verse from the Quran:
"Evil and good are not equal." When you respond to evil with the best, the person you are at odds with will become more like a close friend.
Mesut Özil is one of the few Muslim football players who has publicly condemned Islamophobia in general. Özil tweeted something else as well:
Regretfully, there is a growing anti-Islamic sentiment and Islamophobia in Europe and around the world, and the media is much to blame for this. Disarming and softly silencing Islamophobes and Antiislamismus is, in my opinion, a better strategy than encouraging them.
Özil's accomplishments at Arsenal were two English Super Cups and four FA Cups. He won a La Liga title, a Spanish Cup, and a Spanish Super Cup, making him a great asset to Real Madrid as well. In 2014, Mesut Özil won the FIFA World Cup in Brazil with the German national team. Özil is ranked in the top ten players in football history for assists.
Özil is an observant Muslim who has frequently spoken out against Islamophobia. She is a third-generation Turkish-German. His influence goes beyond sports, as he promotes tolerance and respect in the face of discrimination based on religion.
Özil is an observant Muslim who has frequently spoken out against Islamophobia. She is a third-generation Turkish-German. His influence goes beyond sports, as he promotes tolerance and respect in the face of discrimination based on religion.
In a tweet, Özil referenced a verse from the Quran:
"Evil and good are not equal." When you respond to evil with the best, the person you are at odds with will become more like a close friend.
Mesut Özil is one of the few Muslim football players who has publicly condemned Islamophobia in general. Özil tweeted something else as well:
Regretfully, there is a growing anti-Islamic sentiment and Islamophobia in Europe and around the world, and the media is much to blame for this. Disarming and softly silencing Islamophobes and Antiislamismus is, in my opinion, a better strategy than encouraging them.
Karim Benzema
Born in Lyon, France on December 19, 1987, Karim Mostafa Benzema is another outstanding talent on the list of the finest Muslim football players. Benzema, who is renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, has enjoyed a stellar career playing forward for Real Madrid and the French national team.
He is a special fusion of European and African football traditions because of his contributions to the Madrid club and his origins in the town of Beni Djellil in northern Algeria. With Real Madrid, Benzema has won an incredible 25 trophies. These include five FIFA Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga crowns, three Copa del Rey trophies, and four Spanish Super Cups.
A fundamental component of Karim Benzema's identity is his faith. Even in the middle of the hectic football season, his dedication to keeping the Islamic month of Ramadan intact is a shining example. According to reports, Karim Benzema was fasting prior to Real Madrid vs. Chelsea in the 2022 Champions League quarterfinal, yet he still managed to score a hat-trick against the London team.
He is a special fusion of European and African football traditions because of his contributions to the Madrid club and his origins in the town of Beni Djellil in northern Algeria. With Real Madrid, Benzema has won an incredible 25 trophies. These include five FIFA Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga crowns, three Copa del Rey trophies, and four Spanish Super Cups.
A fundamental component of Karim Benzema's identity is his faith. Even in the middle of the hectic football season, his dedication to keeping the Islamic month of Ramadan intact is a shining example. According to reports, Karim Benzema was fasting prior to Real Madrid vs. Chelsea in the 2022 Champions League quarterfinal, yet he still managed to score a hat-trick against the London team.
Muhammad Salah
One of the greatest players in the world right now, Mohammad Salah, is also one of the greatest Muslim football players in history. Salah began his playing career in his home country of Egypt with El Mokawloon. He later played for Basel in Switzerland, Chelsea, Fiorentina, and Roma in Italy, and finally Liverpool in 2017. Mo Salah and Steven Gerrard are tied for fifth place on Liverpool's all-time goalscorers list as of 2023.
For Liverpool, the Egyptian has been a prolific striker who has broken various records and won multiple individual honors. In three separate seasons, Salah has won the Premier League Golden Boot. In addition, he has been named the African Footballer of the Year, the FWA Footballer of the Year, and the PFA Players' Player of the Year.
Liverpool has won numerous trophies, including the FIFA Club World Cup, the Premier League, the UEFA Champions League, and the UEFA Super Cup, thanks in large part to Salah. In the 2019 Champions League final matchup between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, he scored the game-winning goal.
The Egyptian national team qualified for the World Cup after a 28-year absence thanks in large part to Mo Salah. He secured their place in Russia by scoring twice in their initial game against Congo. He also scored two more goals in their opening tournament encounter against Uruguay. Regretfully, he was unable to bring his country's team across the finish line to earn a spot in Qatar for the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
On the field, the Egyptian is well-known for his remarkable quickness, dexterity, and talent. He has no trouble dribbling past opponents and finishing with accuracy and strength. He can play as a central striker or on the wing with similar skill. The moniker "The Egyptian King" was bestowed upon him by his supporters, and Salah really does deserve it.
Mo Salah is well-known for his humility, compassion, and excellent work ethic off the field. He frequently performs sujood (prostration) to commemorate his aims as a devoted Muslim, an act that has inspired many young Egyptians and Muslims around the world. The Egyptian King declared in 2019 that hateful remarks like the ones made by West Ham United supporters about Islam had "no place in football or in any society." Salah is a fantastic role model for upcoming generations and a tremendous icon in the football world.
For Liverpool, the Egyptian has been a prolific striker who has broken various records and won multiple individual honors. In three separate seasons, Salah has won the Premier League Golden Boot. In addition, he has been named the African Footballer of the Year, the FWA Footballer of the Year, and the PFA Players' Player of the Year.
Liverpool has won numerous trophies, including the FIFA Club World Cup, the Premier League, the UEFA Champions League, and the UEFA Super Cup, thanks in large part to Salah. In the 2019 Champions League final matchup between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, he scored the game-winning goal.
The Egyptian national team qualified for the World Cup after a 28-year absence thanks in large part to Mo Salah. He secured their place in Russia by scoring twice in their initial game against Congo. He also scored two more goals in their opening tournament encounter against Uruguay. Regretfully, he was unable to bring his country's team across the finish line to earn a spot in Qatar for the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
On the field, the Egyptian is well-known for his remarkable quickness, dexterity, and talent. He has no trouble dribbling past opponents and finishing with accuracy and strength. He can play as a central striker or on the wing with similar skill. The moniker "The Egyptian King" was bestowed upon him by his supporters, and Salah really does deserve it.
Mo Salah is well-known for his humility, compassion, and excellent work ethic off the field. He frequently performs sujood (prostration) to commemorate his aims as a devoted Muslim, an act that has inspired many young Egyptians and Muslims around the world. The Egyptian King declared in 2019 that hateful remarks like the ones made by West Ham United supporters about Islam had "no place in football or in any society." Salah is a fantastic role model for upcoming generations and a tremendous icon in the football world.
Zinedine Zidane
On our ranking of the greatest Muslim football players in the history of the beautiful game, Zinedine Zidane comes in first. Zinedine Zidane, also known as Zizou, is regarded by many as one of the all-time great football players.
Along with the French national team, he was an offensive midfielder for a number of elite teams, including Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid. He won multiple trophies during his illustrious career, including three UEFA Champions League crowns, two Serie A titles with Juventus, and a La Liga triumph with Real Madrid.
In addition, Zidane had a crucial role in the French national team's victories at the UEFA Euro 2000 and the FIFA World Cup 1998. In the 1998 World Cup final, he scored two goals against a highly skilled Brazil squad, earning him the title of best player of the competition. In 1998, he was also awarded the Ballon d'Or, and during his career, he was voted FIFA World Player of the Year three times.
Along with the French national team, he was an offensive midfielder for a number of elite teams, including Cannes, Bordeaux, Juventus, and Real Madrid. He won multiple trophies during his illustrious career, including three UEFA Champions League crowns, two Serie A titles with Juventus, and a La Liga triumph with Real Madrid.
In addition, Zidane had a crucial role in the French national team's victories at the UEFA Euro 2000 and the FIFA World Cup 1998. In the 1998 World Cup final, he scored two goals against a highly skilled Brazil squad, earning him the title of best player of the competition. In 1998, he was also awarded the Ballon d'Or, and during his career, he was voted FIFA World Player of the Year three times.
Zidane also played a major part in the French national team's wins at the FIFA World Cup 1998 and the UEFA Euro 2000. He defeated a very talented Brazil team in the 1998 World Cup final with two goals, which won him the award for best player of the tournament. He also received the Ballon d'Or in 1998, and he was chosen three times as the FIFA World Player of the Year in his career.
Zidane has had an incredible playing career in addition to becoming a successful manager. Zinedine Zidane returned to Real Madrid as a coach after declaring his retirement in 2008, and he helped the team win a record three Champions League titles in a row. Future football generations will continue to be inspired by his legacy.
As a devout Muslim, Zidane has never shied away from discussing his Algerian heritage and religion. In addition to showcasing his extraordinary talent, his presence in the European divisions helped dispel preconceptions and promote a more welcoming environment in sports.
FAQs
Q.1 During Ramadan, do Muslim football players fast?
Ans.
As a matter of fact, a significant portion of Muslim football players observe the fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan in compliance with their religious beliefs. This means abstaining from food and liquids from sunrise until sunset. That being said, an individual's strategy for fasting may vary depending on their health, their schedule, and the advice of nutritionists and fitness instructors. Some athletes may change their fasting schedule in order to maintain their high level of performance.
Q.2 How many football players are Muslims worldwide?
Ans . Players in the worldwide sport of football come from a variety of cultural and religious backgrounds, including Islam. Since there are local and international leagues in many different nations, it is hard to pinpoint the precise number of Muslim players globally. However, it's clear that thousands of Muslim football players contribute their special abilities and viewpoints to the game.
Q.3 How many football players from France are Muslims?
Q.4 Do any players at Manchester United practice Islam?
Ans Yes, Manchester United has had a number of Muslim players within its ranks, just as many other international football teams. Prominent Muslim athletes such as Paul Pogba were once Manchester United players. Only Zidane Iqbal is a Muslim player for Manchester United as of 2023.
Q.5 Which football players in England practice Islam?
Ans Both the national team and several football clubs in England have a number of Muslim players. One prominent English Muslim football player as of 2023 is Watford F.C.'s Hamza Choudhury.
Q.6 Which player for England follows Islam?
Ans Thomas Partey is one of the most well-liked Muslim football players in England. He is a midfielder for both the Ghana national team and the English club Arsenal. Thomas Partey moved to Arsenal for a cost of £45 million, making him the most expensive Ghanaian player ever.
Q.7 Does Benzema attend Islam?
Ans. Yes, Algerian-born and -practicing Muslim Karim Benzema is a gifted striker frequently linked to Real Madrid and the French national team. His identity is heavily influenced by his faith.
Q.8 Does Rashford worship Islam?
Ans. Yes, Algerian-born and -practicing Muslim Karim Benzema is a gifted striker frequently linked to Real Madrid and the French national team. His identity is heavily influenced by his faith.
Q.8 Does Rashford worship Islam?
Ans. Renowned Manchester United and England national team player Marcus Rashford is well-known for his accomplishments on and off the field. Nevertheless, there is no documentation indicating that he converted to Islam. Christian faith is practiced by Marcus Rashford.
Ans. The well-known England and Manchester City player Raheem Sterling is not a Muslim. He has openly discussed his Christian religion and been spotted making the sign of the cross on the field.
Q.10 Does Zidane practice Islam?
Indeed, one of the most renowned football players and managers in history, Zinedine Zidane, is a Muslim. His parents are from Algeria, and he was born in Marseille, France. He has talked extensively on the significance of his Islamic faith.
Conclusion:
For many years to come, the football world will be illuminated by their contributions to their individual football teams and the game at large.
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