I think that the best players are Luis Figu, Zenedin Zidan and Pele. Nowadays I could name Christiano Ronaldo oh Neimar but they entered showbiz and don't impress with a good game anymore.
For me I don't think you can look past the two greats of today, certainly for as long as I've been around to watch (and I'm older than I'd like to be haha). I think Ronaldo has been insane for over 10 years, he could have won trophiesat virtually any half decent side he was playing for just from the difference he makes.
After him and Messi it gets a bit tough. Some great choices are on this page, Baggio was a great player, it was so harsh that he ended up missing that penalty after the tournament that he had. The original Ronaldo was quality too, but never returned to the player he was after those knee injuries, his season at Barca was his peak. Van Basten, Zidane, Cantona and even from a purely entertaining perspective I will throw in Jay Jay Okocha! They are all worth a mention.
I will say Maradona for my third choice though, despite his hand of god antics against England.
First is Ronaldinho, the most skillful player that I ever seen.
Second is Messi, pure talent, a nightmare for defenses and goalkeepers.
Third will be Steven Gerrard, true captain and leader on the field.