Top 10 Most Assists in International Football

In the world of international football, goals often steal the spotlight, but let’s not forget the unsung heroes who create those scoring opportunities: the assist-makers. Today, we unveil the elite group of players who have mastered the art of setting up goals on the global stage. Assists may not always receive the recognition they deserve, but they play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of matches.

In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll delve into the top 10 players with the most assists in International football. Thus, shedding light on their remarkable contributions to their respective national teams.

Most Assists in International Football – Top 10

Here’s how the top 10 assist providers in international football look, according to data from credible sources on the internet. Assist records (for Puskás, Kocsis and Pelé) before the 1990s mean that the records for these players are not accurate and are estimates calculated after reviewing different information available.

Rank	Player	Nation	Caps	Total Assists	Assists per 90	Major Tournament Assists
10	Luis Suárez	Uruguay	143	39	0.24	6 (World Cup, Copa América)
9	Pelé	Brazil	92	47*	0.51*	10 (World Cup)
8	Mesut Özil	Germany	92	40	0.36	7 (World Cup, Euros)
7	Cristiano Ronaldo	Portugal	231	45	0.16	14 (World Cup, Euros)
6	Kevin De Bruyne	Belgium	111	52	0.46	5 (World Cup, Euros)
5	Sándor Kocsis	Hungary	68	50*	0.73*	5* (World Cup)
4	Ferenc Puskás	Hungary	85	53*	0.62*	6* (World Cup)
3	Landon Donovan	USA	157	58	0.37*	8* (World Cup, Gold Cup)
2	Neymar Jr.	Brazil	128	59	0.52	10 (World Cup, Copa América)
1	Lionel Messi	Argentina	191	58	0.27	13 (World Cup, Copa América)

Most International Assists in Football History – Individual Players

Below is the detailed list of players who are known for their contribution to the National Side in the form of assists. Note that historic figures like Pele, Puskas and Kocsis’ assists data are estimated based on information available on the internet.

10. Luis Suarez (Uruguay)

At number 10 we have the Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, who is not just known for his precision in front of the net but also one of the best playmakers the Uruguayan national side has ever seen. His vision helped La Celeste to win several crucial matches in the Copa America, CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, and FIFA World Cup. Suarez’s ability to combine with teammates like Edinson Cavani has been pivotal in Uruguay’s attacking dominance.

His Unselfishness is often shadowed by his goal scoring reputation. His assists per 90 (0.27) reflect his ability to create chances for his teammates and Suarez’s determination to contribute in every possible way for his country. Suarez’s legacy as Uruguay’s all-time top scorer is complemented by his playmaking brilliance. Suarez’s legacy as a striker is always going to be complemented by his 42 assists from Uruguay, making him a player with the most international assists in football history.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	143
Goals	69
Assists	39

9. Pele (Brazil)

With an illustrious career spanning 92 games for Brazil, Pele stands tall as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Renowned for his extraordinary talent, the legendary striker boasts an impressive tally of 47 assists, solidifying his status as a master of the game. Pele’s unmatched achievements include three World Cup winners’ medals, a feat unparalleled in football history. Hailed as a true icon of the sport, his remarkable contribution to the beautiful game cements his legacy as one of the best players ever to grace the pitch.

In addition to his 47 international assists, Pele recorded over 120 assists in his club career, playing for Santos and the New York Cosmos. His vision and creativity on the ball were just as vital as his goal-scoring prowess, making him one of the most well-rounded players the game has ever seen. Even decades after his retirement, Pele’s influence on football continues to inspire players around the world.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	92
Goals	77
Assists	47

8. Mesut Ozil (Germany)

Mesut Ozil, the mercurial playmaker, etched his name among the elite with 92 appearances for the German national team, delivering a staggering 40 assists. Despite bidding farewell to international football in 2018, Ozil’s legacy as a master of assists endures. His time at Real Madrid and Arsenal showcased his unparalleled vision and passing ability, earning him acclaim worldwide. Yet, Ozil’s career hasn’t been without controversy.

Criticized for his fitness and discipline, he’s weathered storms while still leaving an indelible mark on the international stage. As his chapter on international football concludes, Ozil’s contributions remain a testament to his genius, leaving a lasting impact on the beautiful game. Ozil is one of the best playmakers with the most assists in international football. His elegance on the ball and ability to dictate play set him apart from his peers. With over 200 career assists across club and country, he remains one of the most prolific creators in modern football. Even in retirement, his influence continues to inspire a new generation of creative midfielders.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	92
Goals	23
Assists	40

8. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Cristiano Ronaldo has not only shattered goal-scoring records but also ranks among the top three for international assists. With 231 appearances for Portugal, the legendary captain has provided 45 crucial assists. Despite leading Portugal to Euro 2016 glory, Ronaldo’s quest for a World Cup title remains unfulfilled. His recent endeavours in Qatar ended in disappointment, highlighting the elusive nature of football’s ultimate prize. Ronaldo is still going strong even at the age of 39, displaying his brilliance in attack. Known for his scoring abilities, Ronaldo has done enough with his playmaking skills earning him a place in the list of most assists in international football.

In addition to his 45 international assists, Ronaldo has accumulated over 150 assists in his club career, including 70 assists for Real Madrid and 30 for Juventus. His ability to create chances, despite being a prolific goal-scorer, has cemented his place among the greatest playmakers. Even as he enters the twilight of his career, his vision and passing remain vital to his game, ensuring his legacy as one of the most complete players in football history.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	231
Goals	138
Assists	45

Also Read: Most Assists in Premier League 2024/25: Salah Leading the Assist Race So Far

6. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)

With 111 appearances for Belgium, Kevin De Bruyne has stamped his authority as the most effective playmaker of his generation. The Napoli maestro boasts an impressive assist-per-game ratio of 0.46, solidifying his reputation as a creator extraordinaire. De Bruyne’s exceptional passing ability has seen him climb the ranks for the most international assists, closing in on the top spots with a remarkable tally of 52 assists to his name. As he continues to dazzle on the field, De Bruyne’s influence on the global stage is undeniable, cementing his status as one of the premier midfield talents of the modern era.

Beyond his 50 international assists, De Bruyne has accumulated over 100 assists in club football, including a remarkable 80 assists for Manchester City alone. His pinpoint accuracy and vision in key moments have led to countless goals, making him one of the most prolific playmakers in Premier League history. Even as he continues to perform at the highest level, De Bruyne’s legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his era is already secured.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	111
Goals	31
Assists	52

5. Sándor Péter Kocsis (Hungary)

Sándor Péter Kocsis, a true maestro of the beautiful game, boasts one of the most remarkable games-to-assists ratios on this prestigious list. With a staggering 50 assists in just 68 appearances for the Hungarian national team, Kocsis’s impact on the field is nothing short of extraordinary. Beyond his international exploits, Kocsis left an indelible mark on the football world during his tenure with FC Barcelona from 1958 to 1965.

His sublime skill and ability to create scoring opportunities set him apart as one of the game’s elite playmakers. As we reflect on his remarkable career, Sándor Péter Kocsis’s legacy as a visionary creator and revered footballing icon continues to inspire generations of players and fans alike.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	68
Goals	75
Assists	50

4. Ferenc Puskas (Hungary)

Ferenc Puskas, a Hungarian icon of the beautiful game, stands as a testament to footballing excellence. With 85 appearances for his national team, Puskas showcased unparalleled brilliance, recording an astonishing 53 assists alongside his prolific goal-scoring record. Puskas’s impact transcends the field, with his legacy immortalized through the prestigious award named in his honour. The Ferenc Puskas Award recognizes the player who scores the most aesthetically beautiful goal each season, a fitting tribute to his enduring influence on the sport.

His international career epitomizes excellence, with 84 goals and 53 assists cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats. Tied with an Argentine superstar widely regarded as the best of all time, Puskas’s legacy remains etched in the annals of footballing history, a testament to his unparalleled skill and lasting impact on the game.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	85
Goals	84
Assists	53

Also read: La Liga Most Assists 2024/25: Race for Most Assists Heats Up Between Top Playmaker

3. Landon Donovan (United States)

Landon Donovan, an American soccer icon, may not dominate headlines like some of his counterparts, but his impact on the international stage is undeniable. With 157 appearances for the USMNT, Donovan showcased his playmaking prowess, tallying an impressive 58 assists. A versatile player who represented clubs like Everton and Leverkusen, Donovan’s contributions to the U.S. national team were instrumental. Alongside his remarkable assist tally, he also found the back of the net 57 times, further solidifying his status as a legend of American soccer.

In addition to his 58 international assists, Donovan recorded over 100 assists in Major League Soccer, including 50 assists for LA Galaxy. His ability to create opportunities, combined with his knack for scoring crucial goals, made him one of the most influential American players in history. Donovan’s contributions on and off the field have played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of soccer in the United States.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	157
Goals	57
Assists	59

2. Neymar (Brazil)

With 128 games under his belt, Neymar has become the epitome of playmaking brilliance, boasting a staggering 59 assists in international football. Surpassing Pele’s record, he now holds the title for most international goals for Brazil, tallying an impressive 79 goals. Neymar’s charismatic presence and unmatched skill have solidified his status as a true legend for his country, leaving an indelible mark on the international stage. Currently, he is injured and has not played for the Brazil national team for more than a year.

Neymar has also provided over 100 assists in his club career, including 45 for Barcelona and 20 for Paris Saint-Germain. His flair and creativity, paired with his goal-scoring prowess, make him one of the most complete attackers of his generation. Despite his injury layoff, Neymar’s legacy as one of the greatest Brazilian players of all time is firmly established.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	128
Goals	79
Assists	59

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

With 193 appearances for Argentina, Lionel Messi boasts 61 assists, showcasing his unparalleled playmaking skills. Surpassing Pele, he holds the record for most international goals in South America. In 2021, Messi secured his first major trophy with Argentina, triumphing in the Copa America finals against Brazil. The following year, he completed his trophy cabinet by clinching the World Cup against France in a historic final victory. One of the greatest of all time, Lionel Messi is leading the charge with the most assists in international football.

Messi has also recorded over 300 assists in his club career, including 180 assists for Barcelona, further cementing his status as a legendary playmaker. His ability to dictate play, create chances, and score goals has made him one of the most influential footballers in history. With his international success, Messi’s legacy is now complete, having achieved everything in both club and international football.

Key Stats	Figures
Matches	193
Goals	112
Assists	61

Also read: Top 10 players with the most assists in the history of UEFA EURO

FAQs