Corinthians, one of Brazil’s most storied football clubs, has produced some of the greatest players the world has ever seen. With a rich history of triumphs both domestically and internationally, the club’s legends have left a lasting impact on football.
From the first victories to their more recent successes, here’s a look at the best Corinthians players of all time, ranked by their exceptional contributions to the club.
10. Freddy Rincón
Freddy Rincón’s time at Corinthians was brief, but his impact was significant. The Colombian midfielder played for the club from 1997 to 2000 and returned briefly in 2004, making 158 appearances and scoring 39 goals.
Rincón helped lead Corinthians to two Brazilian Serie A titles and was crucial in the club’s and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2000. His leadership and technical skill stood out and his composed and powerful performances in midfield made him a fan favorite during a transformative period in the club’s history.
9. Cássio
Cássio is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Corinthians’ history. Joining the club in 2009, Cássio has made 712 appearances for Corinthians, becoming the team’s most capped goalkeeper. His crowning achievements include helping the club win the 2012 Copa Libertadores, where he kept a clean sheet in the final against Argentine side Boca Juniors.
He also starred in the 2012 FIFA Club World Cup, where his heroic saves in the final against Chelsea solidified his legacy. Cássio’s leadership, remarkable reflexes, and consistency have made him one of the club’s most important figures.
8. Wladimir
Wladimir was an essential part of Corinthians in the 1980s, earning the nickname “The Emperor” for his commanding performances. He played 805 matches for the club between 1972 and 1985, scoring 32 goals.
A left-back with excellent attacking instincts, Wladimir helped lead Corinthians to four Campeonato Paulista and his technical ability and consistency over more than a decade made him a beloved figure and one of the best Corinthians players of all time.
7. Zé Maria
Zé Maria, a right-back known for his tireless energy, was a key player for Corinthians in the 1970s and 1980s. He played for the club from 1970 to 1983, making 599 appearances and scoring 17 goals.
Instrumental in securing four Campeonato Paulista titles, Zé Maria had the ability to support the attack while maintaining solid defensive coverage made him a key player during a golden era for the club.
6. Paulinho
Paulinho’s time at Corinthians was a defining period in the club’s history, helping the team win domestic and international honors. The Brazilian midfielder joined Corinthians in 2010, making 210 appearances and scoring 40 goals over two spells.
Across six seasons he was vital in the club’s victorious 2012 Copa Libertadores and FIFA Club World Cup campaigns, scoring in the final of the Club World Cup against Chelsea. Known for his box-to-box dynamism and ability to score crucial goals, Paulinho remains one of the club’s most celebrated players.
5. Gil
Gil was a cornerstone of Corinthians’ defense for several years. Joining the club in 2013 and making 444 appearances over two spells, he was known for his physicality, excellent positioning, and leadership. Gil was a key figure in the 2012 season, helping Corinthians win both the Copa Libertadores and the FIFA Club World Cup.
His reliable performances in the heart of the defense and crucial goals—like his header in the 2012 FIFA Club World Cup final—earned him a reputation for his dependability and earns a spot at fifth place on our list of the best Corinthians players of all time.
4. Rivellino
Rivellino was one of the most gifted and stylish players to ever wear the Corinthians shirt. Joining the club in 1965 his dazzling dribbling, creativity, and intelligence in the attacking third made him a standout player through the 1960s and 70s.
Unfairly targeted for as the scapegoat for Corinthians failing to win a São Paulo state league title during his nine years at the club, Rivellino’s influence at Corinthians extended beyond the pitch—his playmaking abilities and flair embodied the club’s proud attacking style.
3. Cláudio
One of the best Corinthians players ever, Cláudio was a clinical striker and often scored goals in important moments throughout his career. With 554 appearances and 306 goals between 1944 and 1957, he became known for his sharp finishing and ability to perform in big games. Cláudio played a significant role in helping Corinthians claim the São Paulo State Championship three times.
His goals were instrumental in the team’s success. His consistency in front of goal and ability to deliver in crucial moments earned him a place among the club’s all-time greats.
2. Sócrates
Sócrates was not just a footballer; he was a symbol of a generation. A visionary playmaker, Sócrates played for Corinthians from 1978 to 1984, making 297 appearances and scoring 172 goals. His influence extended far beyond his dazzling skill on the ball—he was the leader of the “Democracia Corinthiana” movement, which granted players a voice in team decisions.
Radically changing how Brazilian football was perceived, Sócrates led the team to the Campeonato Paulista three times, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever wear the Corinthians shirt.
1. Ronaldo Nazário
Ronaldo Nazário is undoubtedly the greatest player in Corinthians’ history as well as one of the best Real Madrid players ever. The Brazilian striker, often referred to as “O Fenômeno,” played for the club from 2009 to 2011, making 69 appearances and scoring 35 goals.
Although his time at the club was relatively short, Ronaldo’s impact was undeniable. Ronaldo’s incredible ability to score, his agility, and his clinical finishing made him one of the world’s best, and his achievements with Corinthians include the 2009 Copa do Brasil and Campeonato Paulista titles. As one of the greatest footballers of all time, Ronaldo stands as the club’s top legend.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Corinthians’ Greatest Players
From Freddy Rincón to Ronaldo Nazário, the players listed above have shaped the identity of Corinthians with their talent, leadership, and unforgettable performances. Their contributions to the club have left an indelible mark on football history.
As Corinthians continues to grow and evolve, these legendary players will forever remain part of the club’s rich legacy, inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.
