Welsh football legend Gareth Bale has been ranked as the second-best British player of the 21st century, sparking a lively debate among fans and pundits. The list, compiled by sports website Give Me Sport, places Bale just behind former England and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, igniting discussions over whether the Welshman should have claimed the top spot.
The ranking has drawn significant attention online, with many arguing that Bale’s exceptional achievements, including leading Wales to their first World Cup in 58 years and winning five Champions League titles with Real Madrid, merit him being number one. Some believe that Bale’s international and club success, particularly in Europe, makes him a more worthy candidate for the top position than Rooney.
Give Me Sport explained its criteria for the rankings, highlighting key factors such as consistency, achievements, and legacy. The website wrote: “The twenty-first century has seen British players excel in European football, particularly at club level. When it comes to the home nations, English players dominate the rankings of best players.
“One notable Englishman is Wayne Rooney. The Liverpudlian was a player who excited fans and can be considered one of England’s greatest ever, having shone for both England and Manchester United.
“Welshman Gareth Bale also had a huge impact this century, starring with Real Madrid. Like Rooney, Bale was one of the most entertaining players in British football history.”
Bale’s Career Highlights
Bale’s rise to footballing greatness began at Tottenham Hotspur, where he delivered memorable performances, including a stunning hat-trick against Inter Milan at the San Siro. His record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid in 2013 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, where he would go on to become a key player for the Spanish giants.
“Blessed with superhuman pace and power, Gareth Bale was a sensation for Real Madrid when the big occasion came calling,” Give Me Sport added. “He inspired Wales to qualify for their first international tournament since 1958, leading them to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, where they lost to eventual winners Portugal. Yet, it was in Spain where Bale truly elevated his performances, scoring vital and spectacular goals, including a stunning overhead kick against Liverpool in the 2018 Champions League final.”
During his time with Real Madrid from 2013 to 2022, Bale made 258 appearances, scored 106 goals, and provided 67 assists. His trophy cabinet boasts three La Liga titles and five Champions League titles, cementing his status as one of the most successful British players of all time.
The Debate Over Rooney vs Bale
While the ranking places Wayne Rooney in the top spot, many believe Bale’s consistency on the international stage and his major successes with Real Madrid give him the edge. Rooney, known for his brilliance with Manchester United and as England’s all-time top scorer, also had an illustrious career, making the debate over the number one spot even more heated.
The website’s full top 11 rankings included other notable players, with fellow Welshman Ryan Giggs placed seventh.
Despite the debate surrounding his position in the rankings, Bale can take solace in the fact that Give Me Sport also recognised him as the greatest British player ever to play in Spain’s La Liga, beating out the likes of David Beckham, Gary Lineker, and rising star Jude Bellingham for the honour.
For many fans, Gareth Bale’s legacy is unquestionable, with his defining moments for both club and country standing as testament to his greatness in British football history.
