Bobby Charlton vs Thierry Henry
England against France. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Bobby Charlton
England · 1956–73 · CM
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in England
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 106 · 49 goals
- Clubs
- English Schools' Football Association, Preston North End, Melbourne Victory
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 1966 · 2× Hall of Fame (1969–1974)
A true footballing icon, the Ballon d'Or winner and World Cup champion’s thunderous long-range strikes and humble leadership defined an era for Manchester United and England. Career record: 106 caps and 49 goals for England; club career at English Schools' Football Association, Preston North End, Melbourne Victory; honours include Ballon d'Or 1966, 2× Hall of Fame (1969–1974).
Thierry Henry
France · 1997–2010 · SS
- Almanac rating
- 94
- Rank in France
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 123 · 51 goals
- Clubs
- AS Monaco, Arsenal, New York Red Bulls
- Honours
- 2× national Player of the Year (2003–2003) · European Golden Shoe 2004 · Golden Boot 2002
With his back to goal at Highbury on 1 October 2000, Denis Irwin tight behind him, he flicked the ball up, spun and volleyed it over Fabien Barthez in one motion. France won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with him in the side, Barcelona the 2009 Champions League, and he took two league titles at Arsenal, including the unbeaten season of 2003/04, leaving as their record scorer on 228 goals. Career record: 123 caps and 51 goals for France; club career at AS Monaco, Arsenal, New York Red Bulls; honours include European Golden Shoe 2004, Golden Boot 2002, 2× national Player of the Year (2003–2003).
The verdict
The almanac puts Bobby Charlton ahead by 1 rating point, 95 against 94.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.