Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most storied and successful football clubs, has produced an array of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the club’s history and on world football.
From the early days to the modern era, Flamengo has been home to some of the greatest talents the sport has ever seen. Our rankings celebrate the best Flamengo players of all time, highlighting their achievements and their contributions to the club’s rich legacy.
10. Romário
Romário is one of Brazil’s greatest ever strikers, and his time at Flamengo in the 1990s showcased his undeniable class and prolific goal-scoring ability. Through five seasons across two stints he scored 144 goals from 209 appearances.
Known for his incredible technical skill, clinical finishing, and football IQ, Romário helped elevate Flamengo’s attack to new heights. His time at the club was filled with memorable moments, and he remains one of the greatest Flamengo players of all time.
9. Raul Plassmann
Raul Plassmann is a legendary figure in Flamengo’s history, primarily remembered for his incredible consistency as a goalkeeper during the 1970s and 80s. Plassmann played for Flamengo from 1978 to 1983, amassing 227 league appearances.
His reflexes, composure, and shot-stopping abilities were instrumental in Flamengo’s successes during his time at the club. As a key member of the 1981 Copa Libertadores-winning team, Plassmann’s steady presence at the back earns him a spot on our list.
8. Andrade
Andrade was a key midfielder for Flamengo during its golden era in the 1980s. He played a crucial role in the team’s successes, including their 1981 Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup triumphs. Andrade’s ability to control the game from the middle of the park, combined with his vision and leadership, made him an indispensable part of Flamengo’s dominance in the 1980s.
With 569 total appearances for the club across 11 years, Andrade’s impact on Flamengo is undeniable, securing him a spot among the best Flamengo players of all time.
7. Adílio
Adílio was a gifted attacking midfielder who played a pivotal role in Flamengo’s success during the 1970s and 80s. Known for his dribbling, vision, and creativity on the ball, Adílio was a key player in the 1981 Copa Libertadores-winning team.
His partnership with other greats like Zico and Leandro helped make Flamengo’s midfield one of the most formidable in South American football across his 611 total appearances in the red and black shirt.
6. Léo Júnior
Júnior is one of the most beloved and skilled players in Flamengo’s rich history. The Brazilian left-back was known for his technique, crossing ability, and intelligence on the ball. He played across two spells for Flamengo and appeared in a record 857 appearances for the club.
A starduring the 1981 Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup victories, as well as four league titles, his versatility allowed him to play both as a left-back and in midfield, contributing greatly to Flamengo’s offensive play.
5. Leandro
One of the greatest Brazilian defenders ever, Leandro was one of the finest full-backs in Flamengo’s history, combining defensive solidity with an impressive attacking game. His pace, technical ability, and offensive support made him a crucial part of Flamengo’s success in the 1980s.
Despite an injury riddled career, Leandro managed 417 games for the club before retiring at age 31 in 1990. He spent his entire career at Flamengo helping guide the club to four national league titles and the 1981 Copa Libertadores.
4. Domingos da Guia
Domingos da Guia is regarded as one of the greatest Brazilian defenders of all time, and his legacy at Flamengo is legendary. He played for the club from 1936 to 1943, helping to solidify Flamengo’s defense during his time at the club.
Known for his elegance on the ball and exceptional tackling ability, Domingos was a key figure in Flamengo’s dominance during the late 1940s. His intelligence and composure on the field earned him a place as one of the best Flamengo players ever and helped guide the club to three Rio de Janeiro State League titles.
3. Zizinho
Zizinho was one of the most skillful and intelligent footballers to ever play for Flamengo. His time at the club from 1939 to 1950 helped establish him as one of the top playmakers in Brazilian football.
Known for his brilliant vision, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Zizinho was a key figure in Flamengo’s attack, helping guide the club to three Campeonato Carioca championships.
2. Leônidas
Leônidas da Silva, known as the “Black Diamond,” is a Flamengo legend and one of the greatest players to ever grace Brazilian football. During his stint between 1936 and 1942, Leônidas became one of the most influential forwards in the history of the club and is considered one of the founders of the bicycle kick.
The 1938 World Cup Golden Boot winner was known for his incredible dribbling, creativity, and finishing ability. Leônidas played a key role in Flamengo’s success during the 1930s, and his performances earned him international recognition.
1. Zico
Zico is undeniably the greatest player in the history of Flamengo and one of the best footballers Brazil has ever produced. The legendary attacking midfielder, who played for Flamengo from 1971 to 1983 and again briefly in 1985–1989, scored 508 goals in 731 appearances for the club.
The career of Zico peaked when he led Flamengo to domestic and international glory, including the 1981 Copa Libertadores, Intercontinental Cup, and the Brasileiro Série A three times. His impeccable technique, vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability made him the centerpiece of one of the greatest club teams in history. Zico’s influence on Flamengo is immeasurable, earning him the top spot as the best Flamengo player of all time.
