The Most Devastating Attacking Football Trios in the History of Football

A debate that ignites the passion of every football enthusiast - who is the best attacking trio in football history?

We’ve put together our TOP picks for the best front three’s of all time! Read on to find out more…

a collage image of four attacking trios in football, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar Jr., Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney and Samuel Eto, Thierry Henry and Lionel Messi — Some of the most iconic attacking trios in football history. Source: SportCo.io

As teams take to the pitch with their specific attacking philosophies and tactical plans, one thing is clear: the best formations have often been gifted with a formidable trio of attackers.

Throughout the history of football, certain aspects have captivated fans across the world, including the enduring charm of the attacking trident.

This tactical and setup has stood the test of time, leaving even the most meticulously organised defences in chaos.

Over the years, it has been a treat for football fans to watch their favourite iconic attacking trios.

From the Brazilian national team of the 70s, when the dynamic trio of Pele, Jairzinho and Tostao showcased their prowess in the final third, to a modern era defined by the iconic trio of Messi, Suarez and Neymar at Barcelona - these players have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game

But who are the 5 most iconic attacking three up front in football history?

1. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar Jr. (FC Barcelona)

Scored 122 goals in the 2015 season
Known as ‘MSN’
Won the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup

Between 2014 and 2017, FC Barcelona boasted an epic attacking strength known as the "MSN" trio, comprising the three greatest South American stars of their time.

This triad, consisting of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Neymar Jr., developed an unrivalled partnership that pushed Barcelona's offensive prowess to new levels.

Their collective blow was nothing short of amazing, outscoring the entire Real Madrid team in 2015 by scoring a total of 122 goals in a single season.

The following season saw an even more extraordinary feat as they broke their own record, reaching 131 goals.

With the challenging existence of MSN, Catalans accomplished numerous feats, securing victories in prestigious rounds such as the UEFA Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup and Spanish La Liga.

This trio delighted the hearts of fans worldwide with their flamboyant exhibitions of skill, synergy and style!

2. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale (Real Madrid C.F.)

Recognised as the modern deadly attacking trio
Tally of 97 goals
Four UEFA Champions League titles

Commonly referred to as BBC, Benzema, Bale and Cristiano's collective endeavours resulted in a sequel of great accomplishments that echoed throughout the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu over the years.

These accomplishments encompass an incredible tally of 97 goals, coupled with the addition of four UEFA Champions League titles within five years, alongside two La Liga crowns.

The chemistry was instant - and their talent was clear!

iconic football trio Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale hold trophy and smile for the camera — Iconic football trio Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale

Ronaldo scored goals on a relentless scale. Benzema did the hard work for both of his teammates. Bale brought sheer speed and creativity.

The blend was perfect, and this trio formed the heart of Real Madrid winning titles. The fantastic performances of BBC propelled Real Madrid to new heights.

They became the first club to secure three consecutive Champions League triumphs in the current format of the competition.

It is unfortunate that the adorable partnership of this iconic trio was disrupted as Cristiano Ronaldo departed for Juventus in 2018 and Gareth Bale bid farewell to the prestigious realm of Madrid.

3. Marco Van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard (AC Milan)

Three Series A titles
Two UEFA Champions League titles for AC Milan
Two European Super Cups

Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard are marvels of football in AC Milan's history, their brilliance recasting the course of the club.

Van Basten's magical prowess in front of goal, Rijkaard's invincible presence as a midfield maestro and Gullit's enduring legacy as one of the greatest Dutch players ever led to valuable contributions for their team.

Their cleverness led AC Milan to victory, with the club securing an impressive array of silverware.

Their notable wins included three Serie A titles, signifying their unwavering dominance within the Italian football landscape.

Additionally, they won two prominent UEFA Champions League markers for Milan, emerging as the supreme champions of Europe on multiple occasions.

Furthermore, the trio's excellence led to two European Super Cups, symbolic of their stature on the continental stage.

AC Milan, a club renowned for its valuable commitment to both offensive flair and defensive solidity, continues to forge teams of exceptional calibre.

An awe-inspiring blend of attacking prowess and defensive resilience awaits those who witness the current playing style of AC Milan.

4. Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino (Liverpool FC)

Recognised as the greatest attacking trio in Liverpool’s history
Won the UEFA Champions League title
Tally of 338 goals

Jürgen Klopp and Michael Edwards of Liverpool FC can be credited with assembling what is widely regarded as the greatest attacking trio in the history of Anfield.

Upon their arrival at the club, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane were considered talented players with promising potential, yet their status as world-class talents was not immediately recognised.

However, it was the special chemistry that developed among these three individuals that unlocked their true potential and led to the creation of mesmerising football moments for the Reds.

Mane brought to the team his exceptional skill and speed, Salah contributed his unmatched intelligence and tactical awareness and Firmino was an extraordinary goal-scoring machine.

This trio left an indelible mark on Liverpool, achieving milestones such as securing the UEFA Champions League title and ending the club's 30-year-long drought by capturing the Premier League crown.

Throughout their time together, the collective efforts of Salah, Firmino and Mane resulted in an astounding tally of 338 goals.

Their impact extended far beyond statistical achievements, as their performances displayed the essence of Liverpool's attacking prowess and showcased the footballing philosophy instilled by Jurgen Klopp, one of the greatest football managers of the last 10 years.

Their unique combination of skill, vision and relentless work ethic thrilled fans and left their opponents in distress - and this trio will be forever seen as symbols of success at Liverpool.

Under the guidance of Klopp and Edwards, Salah, Firmino and Mane have been added to Liverpool’s Hall of Fame, and they will be remembered for generations to come.

5. Rivaldo, Ronaldo Nizario and Ronaldinho Gaucho (Brazil)

Rivaldo and Ronaldo Nizario helped young Ronaldinho achieve big
Tally of 15 goals in seven games at the 2002 World Cup
The trio started playing together in the Copa America tournament of 1999

Brazil boasts numerous football legends, with Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho solidifying their places in the highest ranks of the sport's history.

Their performances brought joy to the beautiful game, as they effortlessly manoeuvred past some of the most famous defences of their time, leading Brazil to numerous World Cup victories.

The trio's remarkable journey began in the Copa America tournament of 1999.

Ronaldo and Rivaldo, seasoned veterans by then, cordially guided a young Ronaldinho through the challenges of the national team.

Their collective play was just amazing as they set up a classic display of skills, netting 11 goals in just six games to secure the trophy.

However, their true achievement arrived in 2002, during the highly anticipated World Cup finals held in Japan and South Korea.

Displaying a unique play on the field, the trio showcased their talent, leaving their opponents dumbfounded.

With an outstanding tally of 15 goals in a mere seven games, they propelled the Selecao to glory. They excelled in finding the back of the net, but they also proved themselves as superior providers, contributing four crucial assists.

Even tough opponents such as England, Turkey and Germany, who ultimately reached the final only to be defeated, were left perplexed, unable to find a solution to counter their distinctive brilliance.

Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho elevated the game of football and brought immeasurable joy to fans.

Their legacy remains an enduring testament to their skills, as they bested tournaments and defied expectations.