Santos Futebol Clube is a football institution in Brazil and globally, known for producing some of the most iconic players in history. From world-class attackers to legendary defenders and midfield maestros, the club’s rich history is deeply intertwined with its all-time greats.
This list highlights the 10 best Santos players of all time, showcasing their individual brilliance, impressive statistics, and lasting contributions to the club’s success.
10. Gilmar
Gilmar was a goalkeeper of exceptional quality who played for Santos from 1961 to 1969, making 266 appearances. Known for his composure, reflexes, and leadership, Gilmar was key to the club’s defensive strength. His performances helped Santos win two Copa Libertadores titles (1962, 1963) and five Brazilian Serie A titles during his time.
A part of Brazil’s victorious 1958 and 1962 World Cup squads, Gilmar played a significant role in the team’s success. His ability to make crucial saves and organize the defense made him an integral part of Santos’ legendary teams.
9. Dorval
Dorval was a pacy and skillful winger who provided width to Santos’ attacking play during the 1960s. He played for the club across two spells, scoring 194 goals. The star winger had an ability to stretch opposition defenses and create chances for his teammates made him an essential part of Santos’ attacking strategy.
His link-up play with Pelé and helped the club secure two Copa Libertadores titles and six Campeonato Paulista titles during his tenure. Dorval’s contribution to Santos’ dominance in the 1960s remains significant, as he was known for his precise crosses and exceptional pace.
8. Carlos Alberto Torres
Carlos Alberto Torres is one of the greatest defenders to ever play the game, known for his leadership and attacking ability. He made 445 appearances and scored 40 goals. Carlos Alberto captained Brazil’s national team to their 1970 World Cup victory, where he famously scored a goal in the final against Italy.
At Santos, he helped secure five Paulista titles and played a key role in organizing the defense. His intelligence, composure, and occasional attacking runs made him a well-rounded player and a legend of the club and world football.
7. Clodoaldo
Clodoaldo was the unsung hero of Santos’ midfield in the 1960s and 70s, providing defensive stability while also initiating attacks. His time at the club spanned 510 games where his intelligent play and ability to break up opposition attacks helped Santos dominate Brazilian football and winning five Campeonato Paulista titles.
He also contributed to Brazil’s 1970 World Cup victory, cementing his place in football history. Clodoaldo’s defensive and playmaking balance made him an invaluable asset to Santos and Brazil.
6. Pepe
Pepe was one of the most effective wingers in Santos’ history, known for his speed, dribbling, and delivery. He played for Santos from 1954 to 1969, making 750 appearances and scoring 405 goals. Pepe’s ability to stretch the pitch and deliver key crosses made him a crucial asset, especially during the club’s most successful era.
His partnership with Pelé was vital to Santos’ two Copa Libertadores victories and ten Campeonato Paulista titles during his time. Pepe’s unselfish play and attacking contributions were pivotal to Santos’ dominance in Brazilian and international football.
5. Robinho
Robinho, with his flair, speed, and technical ability, was one of Santos’ standout players in the early 2000s. He made 180 appearances for the club and scored 81 goals between 2002 and 2005. Robinho’s performances were pivotal, helping the club secure the Brazilian .Serie A title twice
His dribbling and creativity made him one of the most exciting players to watch. Robinho’s contributions also helped Santos win two Campeonato Paulista titles in 2002 and 2004. His time at Santos played a significant role in launching his successful international career, with stints at top European clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City, and he returned to Santos for a couple of spells during the 2010s.
4. Neymar
Neymar’s time at Santos may have been shorter, but his impact was profound. His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and scoring ability helped Santos win their third Copa Libertadores title in 2011, their first in nearly 50 years. Neymar’s rise to prominence at Santos reignited the club’s international reputation.
He also helped the club win three Campeonato Paulista titles and the Copa Libertadores in 2011 before making his high-profile move to Barcelona. Neymar’s legacy at Santos is cemented through his electrifying performances and role in returning the club to the top of South American football.
3. Zito
Zito was the linchpin of Santos’ midfield during their golden era, combining tactical intelligence with defensive solidity. A standout player from 1952 to 196, Zito made 727 appearances and scored 57 goals for Santos.
His leadership on the pitch was vital, and he captained both Santos and the Brazilian national team. Zito’s contribution was key to Brazil’s two successive World Cup and Santos benefited greatly from his composure and passing range. With nine Campeonato Paulista titles and two Copa Libertadores wins under his belt, Zito’s name is synonymous with Santos’ golden years.
2. Coutinho
Coutinho, a true magician on the ball, played alongside Pelé in the 1960s and helped form one of football’s greatest attacking duos. During his time at Santos from 1958 to 1968, he scored 368 goals in 457 appearances.
Known for his dribbling, vision, and playmaking ability, his technical excellence contributed significantly to successive Copa Libertadores victories (1962 and 1963) and six Campeonato Paulista titles during his tenure.
1. Pelé
Pelé is synonymous with both Santos Futebol Clube and world football. Between 1956 and 1974, Pelé scored a staggering 643 goals in 659 appearances for Santos. His extraordinary talent helped the club win ten Campeonato Paulista titles as well as the Copa Libertadores twice.
The greatest player of all time to many, Pelé’s career achievements include three FIFA World Cup wins with Brazil and he remains the club’s most influential player. Pelé’s unmatched vision, goal-scoring prowess, and leadership have made him not only the best Santos player of all time but also one of the greatest footballers ever.
Conclusion
The 10 best Santos players of all time have set the standard for excellence in Brazilian and world football. From Pelé’s unparalleled brilliance to Neymar’s modern flair, each player on this list has helped build the club’s incredible legacy. These players not only dominated the Brazilian domestic scene but also made their mark on the international stage, bringing Santos Futebol Clube to the forefront of world football.
Whether they were scoring goals, creating assists, or providing defensive stability, these players left an indelible mark on Santos’ history. Their achievements continue to inspire future generations of footballers and fans alike, ensuring that their legacy remains firmly entrenched in the heart of the club.