10 best friendships in football history: Real Madrid’s iconic left flank, South American bond at Camp Nou

Life is undoubtedly more manageable when we navigate its challenges alongside a kindred spirit who understands our deepest ambitions. In a sport that demands collective sacrifice, having a "soulmate" on the pitch often acts as the catalyst for reaching the pinnacle of glory. 

Whether it is a striker pointing toward the provider of a goal or a defender shielding his partner from a referee's card, these bonds are etched into the memories of fans worldwide. It is truly heartening to witness players celebrate not just a trophy, but the person standing next to them. To honor these sacred connections, we invite you to explore the following list of the best friendships in football history as curated by Livescorecz.

Top 10 best friendships in football history

10. Mason Mount & Declan Rice 

Their story began as 6-year-olds at the Chelsea academy, long before the bright lights of the Premier League. Even after Rice was released by the club at age 14, a moment that could have severed most ties, the duo remained inseparable. 

They holiday together, represent the England national team side-by-side, and are famous for their "bromance" on social media. Despite playing for rival London giants and now top-tier clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal, their bond remains a symbol of childhood loyalty.

9. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang & Alexandre Lacazette 

When Aubameyang arrived at Arsenal in 2018, many feared 2 alpha strikers would clash. Instead, they formed a "deadly duo" that defined the Gunners' attack. They developed a signature handshake celebration and were often seen laughing in training. 

Media outlets frequently noted how their lack of ego benefited the team, as they often passed to one another in front of an open goal rather than shooting. "We are like brothers," Lacazette once remarked, summarizing a partnership that transcends tactical instructions.

8. Marco Reus & Mario Götze 

Dortmund's "Rolls Reus" and "Götzeus" partnership became the face of German football under Jürgen Klopp. Even when Götze made a controversial move to Bayern Munich in 2013, Reus remained his staunchest supporter. 

Götze’s eventual return to Dortmund was hailed as a "homecoming for the heart." Though injuries and transfers eventually separated them professionally, their mutual respect is a masterclass in resilience.

7. David Luiz & Thiago Silva 

Childhood best friends from Brazil, these 2 central defenders grew up together with parents who were neighbors. Their professional paths finally converged at Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazilian national team. They are often seen as the emotional heartbeat of the Seleção. 

During the 2014 World Cup, their bond was visible to the world, often praying together or comforting one another during high-pressure moments. They represent a rare case where the friendship predates the footballing fame.

6. Gerard Piqué & Cesc Fàbregas 

Members of the legendary 1987 "Generation of Monsters" at La Masia, Piqué and Fàbregas have been friends since they were children. Even when Fàbregas moved to Arsenal and Piqué to Man United, they remained in constant contact. 

They reunited at Barcelona in 2011, winning La Liga and various cups. Together for Spain, they reached the ultimate peak, winning the 2010 World Cup. Fàbregas once noted that Piqué’s humor helped him through his toughest transitions in football.

5. Sergio Ramos & Iker Casillas 

Captain and Vice-Captain. Real Madrid and Spain. For a decade, these 2 were the pillars of the most successful era in Spanish history. Despite the intense pressure of El Clásico and club politics, their friendship remained a steadying force. They famously led Spain to 2 Euros and a World Cup. When Casillas left for Porto in 2015, Ramos’s tribute was deeply emotional.

4. Zlatan Ibrahimović & Maxwell

If football had a "traveling pair," it would be Zlatan and Maxwell. Starting at Ajax in 2001, Maxwell helped the young Swede adapt to life in Amsterdam. Over the next 15 years, they played together at Inter Milan, Barcelona, and PSG. 

Ibrahimović, known for his arrogance, once wrote in his autobiography that Maxwell is "the best person in the world." They won over 30 trophies together across 4 different countries, a record of shared success unlikely to be broken.

3. Steven Gerrard & Xabi Alonso 

The midfield engine room of Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League triumph was built on a foundation of mutual admiration. Gerrard and Alonso’s telepathic connection allowed Liverpool to execute the "Miracle of Istanbul." 

Alonso described Gerrard as his "hero," while Gerrard admitted he was devastated when Alonso was sold to Real Madrid. Their partnership was a perfect blend of Scouse grit and Spanish elegance, leaving an indelible mark on Anfield's history.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo & Marcelo 

For 9 years at Real Madrid, the left side of the pitch was a playground for Ronaldo and Marcelo. They weren't just teammates, they were a comedy duo in training and a ruthless machine in matches. 

Marcelo provided countless assists for Ronaldo’s 450 Real Madrid goals, while Ronaldo’s departure to Juventus in 2018 was said to be one of the saddest days of Marcelo’s career. Their pre-match rituals and synchronized goal celebrations remain iconic symbols of Madrid’s 4 Champions League titles in 5 years.

1. Lionel Messi & Luis Suárez 

Undisputedly the gold standard for the best friendship in football history, Messi and Suárez transformed Barcelona's "MSN" era into a dynasty. In 2019 alone, the pair combined for 76 goals. Beyond the staggering stats, they are neighbors and their families are inseparable. 

When Barcelona forced Suárez out in 2020, Messi’s public anger showcased the depth of their bond. Today, they have reunited at Inter Miami in the MLS.

Top 10 most iconic friendships in football history: 

Lionel Messi & Luis Suárez 

Cristiano Ronaldo & Marcelo 

Steven Gerrard & Xabi Alonso 

Zlatan Ibrahimović & Maxwell

Sergio Ramos & Iker Casillas

Gerard Piqué & Cesc Fàbregas

David Luiz & Thiago Silva

Marco Reus & Mario Götze 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang & Alexandre Lacazette

Mason Mount & Declan Rice

Livescorecz.net has just highlighted the most cherished companionships in the history of the sport. In a world often cluttered with controversy, money, and fame, these stories prove that beauty still shines through in the best friendship in football history. These athletes chose to stand by one another, recognizing virtues in their partners that others might overlook, serving as a sacred symbol of human connection.

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