Kopa was regarded as one of the first fully attacking midfielders, and he wowed fans with his quick runs and hunger for goals. Kopa was the catalyst that fed one of the deadliest striking trios in history, co-starring with Ferenc Puskas and Alfredo Di Stefano. His best season came in 1958, when he scored 10 goals in the 1958-59 season and 8 in the 1957-58 season. During this period, Kopa won the 1958 Ballon D'Or and three consecutive European Cups with Real Madrid.
Claude Makelele, No. 2 (2000-2003)
With a growing reputation, Makelele moved to the Bernabeu from Celta Vigo in 2000. With the likes of Raul and Luis Figo surging up the pitch, Makelele developed a style that stopped attacks while keeping his team moving. Makelele was a huge success at Real Madrid, winning two La Liga titles and the 2002 Champions League Final. Makelele left for Chelsea in 2003 after growing dissatisfied with his position at the club.
Zidane, Zinedine (2001-2006)
Zinedine Zidane was the player that every team wanted in the early 2000s. As a result, it was no surprise when Real Madrid broke the world transfer record to sign Zizou from Juventus. It was a match made in heaven, with Zidane's driving runs and technical prowess on the ball providing Real with the cutting edge they were lacking. Zidane's all-around drive and never-ending stamina kept him in the thick of the action during his five-year stay in Spain.
Raphael Varane 4 (2011-2021)
Varane's ability to read tackles and track back quickly set him apart from others his age. It was matched by an attitude that belied his age and improved during his decade in Spain. Varane was a lynchpin in Real Madrid's backline for much of his career, playing key roles in three La Liga titles. Varane's efforts were recognized during the 2017-18 season, when he was named to the FifPro World XI as well as UEFA's Team of the Year.
Benzema, Karim (2009-)
It's incredible to consider how consistently Karim Benzema can deliver for Real Madrid. His record in front of goal has been outstanding, with 20-goal totals in six of his twelve seasons with the club. Benzema's form has improved with age, with his best season being 27 goals in 32 games in 2021-22. With the club, Benzema has won four Player of the Year awards, ten FifPro XI nominations, and two La Liga Best Player of the Year awards.
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