This impressive record is the result of legendary performances by its players, who have shaped the history of the competition. Here’s a ranking of the 20 iconic figures who helped elevate the club to the pinnacle of European football.
- Cristiano Ronaldo
The undisputed king of the Champions League, with 105 goals in 101 matches for Real Madrid. His decisive hat-tricks in 2016 and 2017 helped lead the club to four European titles. Ronaldo represents Madrid’s excellence in the competition. - Alfredo Di Stéfano
The architect of Real Madrid’s early glory. Between 1956 and 1960, he led the team to five consecutive titles, scoring in each final. Known as “La Saeta Rubia” (The Blonde Arrow), he laid the foundation for Real Madrid’s European legacy. - Sergio Ramos
The iconic captain, Ramos was the man for the big finals. His equalizer in the 2014 final against Atlético secured the club’s 10th title. With three Champions League wins (2014, 2016, 2017), he embodied leadership and determination. - Raúl González
“The Señor Real Madrid.” Before Ronaldo, Raúl was the club’s all-time top scorer. With three Champions League titles (1998, 2000, 2002), he represented consistency and leadership for over a decade. - Karim Benzema
A key figure in attack after Ronaldo’s departure, Benzema made history with 15 goals in the victorious 2021-2022 campaign, including a memorable hat-trick against Chelsea. - Luka Modrić
The Croatian maestro, Modrić was the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, orchestrating victories in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018. His tactical intelligence and vision made him a living legend. - Marcelo
One of the greatest left-backs in football history, Marcelo played a crucial role in the club’s four consecutive titles in the 2010s. His creativity and attacking flair were unforgettable. - Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian wall. His nine saves in the 2022 final against Liverpool were pivotal in securing Real’s 14th title. Since his arrival, he’s been an indispensable part of Madrid’s defense. - Casemiro
The perfect balance between defense and attack, Casemiro was a quiet but essential force in Real Madrid’s success from 2014 to 2018. - Vinícius Júnior
At just 24, he’s already a Champions League hero, scoring decisive goals in the 2022 and 2024 finals. Vinícius has proven to be the future of Madrid’s attack.
Other Legends:
- Zinedine Zidane – His stunning volley in 2002 is one of the greatest moments in history.
- Gareth Bale – His brace in the 2018 final against Liverpool remains unforgettable.
- Toni Kroos – Indispensable in midfield with surgical precision.
- Iker Casillas – Legendary goalkeeper and captain during the Decima.
- Fernando Hierro – Solid 90s defender and defensive pillar.
- Hugo Sánchez – The Mexican striker who shone in the 1980s.
- Roberto Carlos – His energy and powerful shots defined his era.
- Paco Gento – The only player with six Champions League titles, a true early legend
- Manuel Sanchís – Captain during the 1998 and 2000 victories.
- Ricardo Zamora – Historic goalkeeper and hero of the early years.
The Future Secured with New Generations
With talents like Vinícius Júnior, Thibaut Courtois, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler, Real Madrid is poised to continue writing glorious chapters in the history of the Champions League.
