Janice R. Andrews
Players With Superior Ratios to Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s greatest icons, has set incredible standards throughout his illustrious career. With 910 goals and 256 assists in 1251 appearances, Ronaldo boasts an impressive 0.93 goal contributions per game. However, since 2000, three players have managed to achieve an even higher goal contribution rate.
Here’s a closer look at these extraordinary players who have outperformed Ronaldo’s numbers in this regard.
1. Erling Haaland – 0.99 Goal Contributions Per Game
Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal machine, is already making waves in football history. With 278 goals and 53 assists in just 335 appearances, Haaland averages an impressive 0.99 goal contributions per game, edging out Ronaldo by a small margin.
Haaland’s numbers, though remarkable, come from a shorter career span. At just 24, he’s been primarily deployed as an out-and-out striker, whereas Ronaldo has played multiple roles throughout his career.
Haaland’s standout season came in 2022–23, where he netted 52 goals in all competitions. For comparison, Ronaldo surpassed this milestone in four separate seasons, showcasing his consistent dominance.
If Haaland maintains his current pace, projections suggest he could exceed 1200 goal contributions by the end of his career, assuming he matches Ronaldo’s longevity.
2. Kylian Mbappé – 1.02 Goal Contributions Per Game
Kylian Mbappé, a lifelong admirer of Ronaldo, has established himself as one of the most prolific attackers of his era. So far, Mbappé has recorded 339 goals and 139 assists in 470 appearances, averaging an outstanding 1.02 goal contributions per game.
During his time at Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé dominated the French league, winning six consecutive Golden Boot awards and scoring 175 goals in 205 league appearances. His consistent performances as both a scorer and playmaker solidify his place among football’s elite.
Since joining Real Madrid, Mbappé’s form has dipped slightly, averaging 0.63 goal contributions per game in 16 appearances. This contrasts sharply with Ronaldo’s 1.3 contributions per game during his time at Madrid.
Despite the slow start in Spain, Mbappé’s trajectory suggests he could eventually surpass Ronaldo’s overall contributions if he continues his development.
3. Lionel Messi – 1.13 Goal Contributions Per Game
Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s greatest rival, sits comfortably at the top with an unmatched 1.13 goal contributions per game. Across 1083 matches, Messi has delivered 850 goals and 379 assists, giving him a total of 1229 goal contributions—the highest in football history.
Messi’s brilliance is evident not only in his scoring but also in his playmaking ability. His 0.35 assists per game far outpaces Ronaldo’s 0.2 assists per game, highlighting his dual role as both a scorer and a creator.
If Messi were to play as many games as Ronaldo, his current goal contribution rate suggests he’d have an astonishing 162 more contributions than his Portuguese counterpart.
His career at Barcelona and international success with Argentina are testaments to his consistency and longevity.
Ronaldo’s Legacy Stands Tall
Although Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi boast better goal contribution ratios, Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy remains unparalleled. His ability to excel across different leagues, positions, and stages of his career sets him apart.
While Haaland and Mbappé are still early in their careers, Ronaldo’s numbers reflect over two decades of dominance. His ability to deliver in key moments, adapt to different roles, and maintain consistency under immense pressure cements his place as one of the all-time greats.
Conclusion
The numbers speak volumes about the incredible achievements of Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé. Messi leads the pack with a historic ratio, while Haaland and Mbappé are on promising paths.
Yet, Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact on football transcends statistics. His remarkable longevity, adaptability, and influence on the game ensure his place in the pantheon of football legends. Whether through raw numbers or sheer legacy, Ronaldo’s greatness continues to inspire generations.
