In soccer, fame isn’t just about goals and trophies anymore. Now, it’s also about followers, likes, and shares. Social media has become as much a battlefield as the pitch itself, where soccer stars dazzle fans with off-field antics, glamorous lifestyles, and occasionally some actual football content.
Social media has enabled fans to see the daily stories, posts, scenes, backstage goals, and lifestyles of numerous footballers. Fans can observe their idols’ lives, from family gatherings to new haircuts and outfits.
- Most Followed Footballers on Social Media
- 1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 914 Million Followers
- 2. Lionel Messi – 619 Million Followers
- 3. Neymar – 409 Million Followers
- 4. Ronaldinho – 172 Million Followers
- 5. Kylian Mbappe – 150 Million Followers
- 6. David Beckham – 146 Million Followers
- 7. Karim Benzema – 142 Million Followers
- 8. Sergio Ramos – 140 Million Followers
- 9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 123.3 Million Followers
- 10. Marcelo – 122.7 Million Followers
Most Followed Footballers on Social Media
The fame of these soccer players extends far beyond the pitch.
Their social media accounts offer fans an unprecedented glimpse into their lives, making these stars even more beloved and influential.
Whether it’s Ronaldo’s meticulously branded posts or Ronaldinho’s joyful snippets, each player brings something unique to the digital stage, continuing to captivate millions worldwide.
Here are the 10 most followed soccer players on social media who have gained massive popularity because of their exceptional field skills and compelling online presence.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 914 Million Followers
- Instagram: 633M followers
- X: 111M followers
- Facebook: 170M followers
- TikTok: None
No one in the world can boast more followers than Ronaldo, who surpassed Selena Gomez in the social media charts in 2018. Knocking Ronaldo off this top spot will be a Herculean task, with only Mbappe appearing to be within reach of the next generation of talents.
Ronaldo’s social media is a masterclass in branding, showing his athleticism, business ventures, and luxurious lifestyle. Every post is meticulously crafted to maintain his image as the epitome of success, discipline, and hard work.
The Portuguese football king turns everything he touches into gold.
Ronaldo understands the power of celebrity branding and has successfully launched numerous businesses including hotels (Pestana CR7), a health & fitness app (7egent), gyms (CR7 Crunch Fitness), eyewear, underwear, footwear, and fashion lines.
He has collaborated with global brands like Nike, Insparya (haircare), Herbalife Nutrition, Dazn (sports app), Clear (haircare), SixPad (fitness gear), and Free Fire (gaming app).
Ronaldo’s digital empire is as impressive as his footballing achievements, making him the undisputed king of social media.
2. Lionel Messi – 619 Million Followers
- Instagram: 503M followers
- X: None
- Facebook: 116M followers
- TikTok: None
Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Messi’s social media presence reflects his personality: humble, dedicated, and family-oriented. Fans are treated to glimpses of his life in Paris, heartwarming family moments, and his unparalleled exploits on the pitch.
Messi’s public persona doesn’t lend itself to widespread fame.
When he was coming through Barcelona’s youth team, Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas thought the slight Argentine was mute, as he spoke so little.
Messi does his talking on the pitch, racking up every major European trophy available before taking his talents to South Beach, Miami – which is why fans across the world have fallen in love with him throughout his career.
3. Neymar – 409 Million Followers
- Instagram: 222M followers
- X: 63.5M followers
- Facebook: 92M followers
- TikTok: 32.4M followers
Cracking the top three is Neymar, the Brazilian superstar with a jaw-dropping number of followers. Neymar’s social media is a whirlwind of high fashion, epic parties, and dazzling football skills.
Known for his flashy lifestyle and off-the-field controversies, Neymar’s posts are anything but boring. His blend of talent, style, and drama keeps fans coming back for more, making him one of the most compelling figures in the sport.
During the 2022 national election, the most expensive player in football history was persuaded to post a video in support of the far-right presidential candidate Jair Bolsonaro.
Even with Neymar dancing to a campaign jingle, Bolsonaro lost the race to Lula, who garnered support from past generations of Brazilian footballers.
4. Ronaldinho – 172 Million Followers
- Instagram: 76.4M followers
- X: 21.5M followers
- Facebook: 56M followers
- TikTok: 18.9M followers
Ronaldinho’s social media is a celebration of joy and creativity, mirroring his playing style. Fans flock to his accounts for doses of positivity, incredible skill videos, and reminders of why he was once the most electrifying player.
Peaking for Barcelona at the same time as YouTube emerged as the first widely available video-sharing platform, the Brazilian icon’s dizzying array of tricks and flicks was immortalized by countless clips invariably played to the soundtrack of Evanescence.
The first-ever YouTube video to crack one million views starred Ronaldinho. His fans have followed him across to Instagram, lapping up a mountain of adverts for all sorts of products.
Considered one of the greatest of all time, Ronaldinho is still one of the world’s top 10 most popular footballers on TikTok.
Ronaldinho has been featured as a model or ambassador by top brands including Nike, Lenovo, Hyundai, Pepsi, Protobar (energy snack bar), Mybet88 Asia, Freestyle Football Federation, Teqball Football Federation, Barcelona F.C., Paralympics Games, Nutrilite (vitamins and supplements), Danet (yogurt), and others.
Ronaldinho’s infectious smile and playful spirit continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
5. Kylian Mbappe – 150 Million Followers
- Instagram: 119M followers
- X: 14.1M followers
- Facebook: 17M followers
- TikTok: None
Mbappe is one of the best footballers in the world right now, and his unbelievable stats on the pitch match with his followers on Instagram.
The 25-year-old World Cup winner is one of only four football players with a nine-digit following on the platform.
The youngster’s rise has been exciting to watch, and the new generation of football fans will be following Mbappe for years to come. The Frenchman was always convinced of his talent.
Whether he’s flaunting his latest fashion ensemble or sharing training ground snippets, Mbappe’s feed is a testament to his relentless pursuit of greatness and a peek into the glamorous life of a modern footballer.
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6. David Beckham – 146 Million Followers
- Instagram: 88M followers
- X: None
- Facebook: 58M followers
- TikTok: None
Beckham continues to shine brightly with millions of followers. His social media is a nostalgic journey through his career, peppered with current endeavors in fashion, philanthropy, and family life.
A true soccer icon, Beckham’s posts exude class and charisma, much like the man himself. His ability to remain relevant and adored in a rapidly changing world is nothing short of legendary.
Beckham has collaborated on many advertising and marketing campaigns for brands including Sky Sports, H&M, Visit California, Burger King, Pepsi, Jaguar, Adidas, EA Sports, Sharpie (markers), Motorola, Vodafone, ESPN, and Homme (perfume).
7. Karim Benzema – 142 Million Followers
- Instagram: 76.8M followers
- X: 21.1M followers
- Facebook: 45M followers
- TikTok: None
The French goal machine’s social media is a sleek blend of style, substance, and a sprinkle of swag.
From his exploits with Real Madrid to his impeccable fashion sense and luxurious lifestyle, Benzema’s feed is the epitome of modern football stardom.
Karim currently plays as a striker for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.
Some of the brands that the striker endorses include Adidas, Hyundai, EA Sports, Bwin, and French companies like LCL (Le Crédit Lyonnais) and SFR (Société française du radiotéléphone).
He’s not just scoring goals; he’s setting trends.
8. Sergio Ramos – 140 Million Followers
- Instagram: 63.7M followers
- X: 20.3M followers
- Facebook: 38M followers
- TikTok: 18.7M followers
The Spanish stalwart and defensive rock has a massive social media following, who tune in for a mix of athletic prowess, personal milestones, and motivational posts.
Ramos’ account is a masterclass in balancing professional dedication with personal warmth, offering fans a window into his life as a football legend, devoted husband, and father.
He spent the majority of his club career with Real Madrid, where he became an iconic captain, winning numerous domestic and international titles.
With his strong presence, charisma, and ability to score crucial goals, Ramos is considered one of the greatest defenders of his generation and one of the most followed footballers in the world in 2023.
9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 123.3 Million Followers
- Instagram: 64M followers
- X: 9.4M followers
- Facebook: 39M followers
- TikTok: 10.9M followers
Next up is the one and only Zlatan, a man who needs no introduction.
His social media presence is as commanding as his presence on the field. Known for his larger-than-life persona and cheeky self-confidence, Zlatan’s posts range from awe-inspiring goals and training regimens to humorous quips and philosophical musings.
Having retired as a professional football player in June 2023 with a massive farewell at San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy, Zlatan’s charisma hasn’t diminished one bit.
Global marketing campaigns featuring Zlatan’s name and look include brands such as Nike, EA Sports, FIFPro, United Nations World Food Program, and Auto Images.
If confidence had a face (and a social media account), it would be Zlatan’s.
10. Marcelo – 122.7 Million Followers
- Instagram: 68M followers
- X: 13M followers
- Facebook: 28M followers
- TikTok: 13.7M followers
The Brazilian maestro with a smile as wide as the Amazon rounds off our list. Known for his dazzling footwork and playful personality, Marcelo’s social media is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes moments with Real Madrid, heartwarming family snapshots, and the occasional samba dance-off.
His down-to-earth charm and genuine love for the game and his fans make him a delightful presence on any timeline.
It’s impossible to argue with his status as one of the best-attacking left-backs and one of the greatest football defenders in the world. As a Fluminense player, Marcelo wears the Number 12 while standing 5 ft 9 in.
Marcelo Vieira has won 22 trophies including four UEFA Champions Leagues and five La Liga titles with his team. Marcelo has mainly featured in global marketing campaigns for Adidas, Pepsi, Emirates Airlines, Amazon Prime Video, and others.
