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Ranking the 15 best German players in Premier League history Widely regarded as the wealthiest football league in the world, the Premier League has consistently drawn top talent from across the globe — and Germany has contributed some standout stars. This THREAD ranks the 15 greatest German players to have graced England’s top division, judged on their longevity, impact, achievements, and lasting legacy. Let the countdown begin!
15. Christian Ziege
Christian Ziege featured in the Premier League from 1999 to 2004, turning out for Middlesbrough, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur. A technically skilled left-back, he was known for his composure on the ball and his fierce free-kicks. Ziege lifted the League Cup with Liverpool in 2001, but recurring injuries prevented him from reaching greater heights in England.
14. Thomas Hitzlsperger Nicknamed "Der Hammer" for his powerful left-footed shots, Thomas Hitzlsperger left a lasting impression during his time in the Premier League with Aston Villa, West Ham, and Everton between 2000 and 2013. A central midfielder with a knack for long-range goals, he became a cult hero particularly at Villa Park thanks to his commitment and trademark thunderbolts.
Uwe Rösler Uwe Rösler played three seasons at Manchester City in the mid-1990s and later had a short spell at Southampton. A relentless and clever striker, he won over City fans with his knack for scoring in crucial moments. Despite the club's instability during his tenure, Rösler's influence was clear. He later returned to English football as a well-regarded manager.
Markus Babbel Markus Babbel joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich as a high-profile signing, contributing to the 2000–01 cup treble, including a goal in the UEFA Cup Final. A forceful and energetic right-flank player, his English career was derailed by serious illness. He made a remarkable return with Blackburn but never regained his former prowess.
Pascal Groß Joining Brighton from Ingolstadt in 2017 for a modest fee, Pascal Groß arrived quietly but departed as a club icon. A versatile midfielder, he orchestrated the Seagulls’ attacking play during their Premier League ascent with crisp passing, smart movement, and a knack for scoring. His consistency shone over seven seasons, amassing over 200 appearances. Groß’s Premier League legacy is one of understated brilliance.
Kai Havertz Signed by Chelsea in 2020 from Bayer Leverkusen for over £70 million ($90m/€76m), per the BBC, Kai Havertz faced immense expectations. His initial Premier League form fluctuated, but he etched his name in history with the winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final. Now at Arsenal, he’s transformed into a diligent, versatile attacker. Still in his mid-20s, Havertz’s Premier League journey continues to unfold.
Dietmar Hamann Dietmar Hamann signed with Newcastle from Bayern Munich in 1998 but found his true home at Liverpool. Composed and tactically sharp, he was the understated backbone of a team that claimed the FA Cup, League Cup, and the iconic 2005 Champions League, where his halftime substitution sparked Liverpool’s stunning recovery from a 3-0 deficit.
Per Mertesacker Arsenal signed Per Mertesacker from Werder Bremen in 2011, with doubts about his pace lingering. The 6ft 6in centre-back proved critics wrong, becoming a vital leader during a transitional era. He captained Arsenal to the 2017 FA Cup with a commanding final performance despite limited play that season. Post-retirement, he became Arsenal’s Academy manager.
Antonio Rüdiger Antonio Rüdiger arrived at Chelsea from Roma in 2017, bringing raw talent and relentless physicality. Initially inconsistent, he thrived under Thomas Tuchel, becoming a commanding defender in the Premier League. Pivotal in Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League victory, Rüdiger won fans over with his uncompromising play and vibrant personality.
Jens Lehmann Jens Lehmann joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund in 2003, tasked with succeeding club icon David Seaman. He rose to the challenge, anchoring the Gunners’ unbeaten 2003–04 Premier League campaign as a cornerstone of the Invincibles. His quirky personality and fierce competitiveness ensured he was always captivating to watch
Jürgen Klinsmann Tottenham’s 1994 signing of Jürgen Klinsmann from AS Monaco raised doubts due to his diving reputation and high profile. He quickly dispelled skepticism, scoring with flair and charm, while his tongue-in-cheek dive celebration won fans’ hearts. In one full season, he bagged 20 league goals (per Transfermarkt) and earned the 1995 FWA Footballer of the Year award. A short, dynamic 1997–98 return helped Spurs avoid relegation, securing his cult hero status.
Mesut Özil
Mesut Özil joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2013 for a then-record fee, marking a bold new chapter under Arsène Wenger. His exquisite vision, creativity, and fluid elegance dazzled the Premier League, earning him four FA Cups and assist records while restoring flair to the Emirates. Despite a later dip in form and persistent claims of laziness, Özil’s brilliance remains undeniable, though it keeps him from a higher ranking.
Robert Huth Robert Huth was no-frills—tough, traditional, and exceptional. Signed by Chelsea as a teen, he contributed to the early Abramovich era, securing two league titles as a squad player. At Middlesbrough and Stoke City, he established himself as a reliable centre-back, excelling with aerial prowess, bone-rattling tackles, and a straightforward approach.
İlkay Gündoğan
İlkay Gündoğan, signed from Dortmund in 2016 as Pep Guardiola’s first Manchester City acquisition, became the understated pulse of the club’s golden era. Graceful and astute, he delivered crucial goals including two title sealing braces and transitioned from a deep-lying orchestrator to a goal-scoring leader. With five Premier League titles before a brief 2023 exit, he returned in 2024 to extend his legacy. Often overshadowed in star-heavy squads, Gündoğan was Guardiola’s ultimate clutch player, captaining City’s 2022–23 Treble triumph with trophy-defining goals. Among German Premier League contributors, he reigns supreme for his skill and impeccable timing.
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