Pele is / was the greatest player to ever play the game. His 1281 lifetime goals, are still more then double then the next in line. ( Franz Binder , 1930's ). Anyone else is just a discussion as to whom you believe was 2nd best.
It is a debate that has so many variables to it. Most effective ? Most skilled ? Most impactful ? Longevity ?
My personal list is based on all of the above
2. Messi
3. Johan Cryuff
4. Maradonna
5. Garincha
Special mention...... Eusebio , Puskas , Ronaldo , Platini ......
Ronaldinho was a pleasure to watch, but even in his prime, does'nt stack up against " The Greats " imo.