Perfect 10s: Footballers Who Earned L’Equipe’s Ultimate Rating

Footballers who have earned a 10/10 rating from L’Equipe find themselves in exclusive company, with only 18 players in football history managing to impress the notoriously critical French sports newspaper to such a degree. This rare mark of excellence underscores the magnitude of their performances on the world stage.

The Rarity of a 10/10 Rating from L’Equipe

L’Equipe is renowned for its rigorous and often unforgiving player rating system. Achieving a 10/10 from their panel of experts is almost unheard of, making each occurrence a notable event in football history. While standout players regularly receive praise from media outlets, L’Equipe’s perfect score is reserved for performances of true brilliance.

Recent Addition: Joao Neves Joins Elite List

In 2025, Joao Neves delivered a breathtaking display for Paris Saint-Germain against Toulouse in Ligue 1, earning him a coveted 10/10 rating. Neves’ year has been nothing short of extraordinary: not only did he help PSG secure their first-ever Champions League title, but he was also pivotal in Portugal’s Nations League triumph. His flawless match against Toulouse left critics and fans in awe, etching his name alongside football’s greats.

L’Equipe’s Harsh Scoring Tradition

The French newspaper’s player ratings are infamous across Europe. Footballers know that earning high marks from L’Equipe is a remarkable feat in itself, given the publication’s high standards and tough reviews. Over decades, only a select group have reached the fabled perfect 10, sparking debates and admiration every time it happens.

Footballers Who Achieved Perfection

The list of players with a 10/10 rating is as stunning as it is short. Iconic names such as Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe have all delivered unforgettable performances that forced L’Equipe to break with their reputation for restraint.

Messi’s genius has seen him earn the top mark for his spellbinding displays, while Haaland’s incredible goal-scoring feats stunned even L’Equipe’s seasoned critics. Kylian Mbappe produced a performance so dominant during the 2022 World Cup final, scoring a hat-trick, that even the toughest reviewers conceded perfection.

Other Notable Entries

Beyond the biggest names, the list features a mix of legendary figures and unexpected heroes who seized their moment on the pitch. From Oleg Salenko’s six-goal haul at the 1994 World Cup to Neymar’s dazzling Champions League exploits for PSG, these rare occurrences are etched in football lore.

What Does a 10/10 Mean for Players?

Receiving a 10/10 from L’Equipe is more than just a number—it’s a mark of footballing immortality. It signals a performance that transcends ordinary brilliance, where every touch, decision, and moment on the field is near flawless. For the 18 players who have achieved it, this rating is an everlasting testament to their skill, determination, and ability to rise above the rest when it mattered most.

Why These Ratings Matter

In the modern era, where individual accolades are plentiful, L’Equipe’s rare perfect 10 stands out for its integrity and tradition. It is a benchmark that sparks conversation among fans, inspires upcoming stars, and adds a unique chapter to the sport’s rich history.

Perfect 10s: A Lasting Legacy in Football

As football continues to evolve, spectacular performances will always capture the imagination. L’Equipe’s 10/10 rating remains a symbol of ultimate achievement for players and a reminder to fans of the game’s capacity to produce moments of true greatness.

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Opinion: The True Value of Perfection

L’Equipe’s perfect 10/10 rating is more than just a media gimmick—it’s a rare honor that rightfully celebrates footballers who deliver beyond all expectations. These moments remind us why football captivates millions: for the fleeting, unforgettable brilliance that only the world’s best can provide.