Instagram has become more than just a social media app; it’s now a global stage where athletes, celebrities, and influencers build brands, connect with fans, and showcase slices of their personal lives. For footballers, it’s the perfect platform to stay in the spotlight beyond matchday.
From shirtless training snaps and family vacations to behind-the-scenes looks at life with the biggest clubs on earth, footballers use Instagram to share the moments fans never see from the stadium.
And the numbers are staggering: modern footballers command followings that outshine even Hollywood’s biggest names.
In this post, we break down the most-followed soccer players on Instagram in 2025 — the kings of both the pitch and the platform.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo — 652 Million Followers
No surprises here. CR7 continues to reign supreme, not only as one of the greatest footballers in history but also as the most-followed individual on Instagram.
The Portuguese has masterfully blended athletic excellence with online charisma, making his Instagram page one of the most powerful personal brands in the world. From sharp-suited sponsor shoots and gym updates to family moments and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his legendary career, Ronaldo’s content mix keeps his audience both inspired and entertained.
Ronaldo overtook pop stars and influencers years ago, and no one has been able to catch up. His social media dominance shows no signs of slowing, even as he approaches the final years of his playing career.
2. Lionel Messi — 505 Million Followers
Second only to Ronaldo in the follower count, Lionel Messi’s Instagram offers fans a rare peek into the life of one of football’s quietest superstars.
The Argentine, who built his legacy with Barcelona before taking his talents to Inter Miami, isn’t known for flashy soundbites; his Instagram posts often speak for him.
Whether he’s sharing family celebrations, football milestones, or low-key endorsements, Messi’s posts are usually simple but powerful, which makes them resonate with fans across the globe.
Messi’s understated online persona is part of the charm, proof that you don’t need to be the loudest voice on Instagram to gather half a billion followers.
3. Neymar Jr. — 230 Million Followers
Whether he’s on the pitch or Instagram, Neymar knows how to capture attention.
The Brazilian forward has long been a fan favourite for his flair and unpredictability, both in his playing style and his posts. His Instagram features everything from extravagant birthday parties and holiday destinations to training montages and the occasional political endorsement.
During Brazil’s 2022 elections, Neymar even became a talking point beyond football for publicly supporting a candidate.
As his career continues with Brazilian side Santos FC, Neymar’s star power shows no signs of dimming — and neither does his social media influence.
4. Kylian Mbappé — 124 Million Followers
Mbappé might still be young, but his follower count is already playing in the same league as global legends.
The French forward’s rapid rise to fame from teenage sensation at AS Monaco to World Cup winner and Real Madrid’s star man has been mirrored by his explosive social media growth.
His Instagram showcases his evolution from young prodigy to captain of France and marketing icon.
Between brand collaborations, pitch-side action shots, and personal life snippets, Mbappé’s feed highlights the lifestyle of football’s next-generation superstar.
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5. David Beckham — 88 Million Followers
A soccer icon turned business mogul, David Beckham’s Instagram is a perfect blend of nostalgia, celebrity, and style.
Even years after retiring, Beckham remains one of the most recognised faces in world sport. His posts often feature moments with his family, behind-the-scenes looks at his MLS franchise Inter Miami, and collaborations with major fashion and lifestyle brands. The Beckham brand remains as strong as ever, and his social following proves it.
His wife, Victoria Beckham, only amplifies his stardom. The power couple remains an unmatched force in entertainment and fashion circles.
6. Ronaldinho — 77 Million Followers
Few footballers have the kind of timeless appeal that Ronaldinho enjoys.
Even in retirement, the Brazilian magician continues to command a massive audience on Instagram. Fans still flock to his page for throwback highlights, brand collaborations, and glimpses of his life as a global football ambassador.
Ronaldinho’s style and charm were immortalised in the early YouTube era, and his transition to Instagram has only cemented his reputation as one of the most beloved figures in the sport’s history.
7. Karim Benzema — 76 Million Followers
A player whose influence only grew with age, Karim Benzema saw his Instagram following skyrocket in the post-Ronaldo Real Madrid era.
After becoming the main man at Madrid, Benzema led the club to multiple Champions League triumphs and secured a long-awaited Ballon d’Or in 2022. His Instagram became the go-to place for fans to follow his transformation from quiet supporting cast to global superstar.
Following his 2023 move to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, Benzema’s content shifted to new surroundings, but his followers have only kept climbing.
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8. Marcelo — 69 Million Followers
Known as much for his dazzling smile as for his brilliant footballing ability, Marcelo remains one of the most popular left-backs in the game, even post-Real Madrid.
In 2023, the Brazilian star made an emotional return to his boyhood club, Fluminense, and added the prestigious Copa Libertadores trophy to his cabinet.
His Instagram offers a balance of family life, football nostalgia, and lighthearted content, proving that charisma goes a long way on social media.
9. Sergio Ramos — 66 Million Followers
Tough as nails on the pitch, and surprisingly relatable off it, Ramos has built a dedicated fanbase both for his footballing achievements and his Instagram presence.
Ramos regularly shares insights into his intense fitness routine, family moments, and occasional behind-the-scenes glimpses of his club and national team commitments.
Alongside his wife, Spanish TV personality Pilar Rubio, Ramos is part of one of the sport’s most high-profile couples — a dynamic that certainly hasn’t hurt his follower count.
10. Mohamed Salah — 65 Million Followers
Rounding out the list is Salah, one of the most beloved and respected soccer players on and off the pitch.
The Egyptian superstar has cultivated a global fanbase thanks to his humble personality, incredible football talent, and strong connection to his roots. Whether it’s sharing workout sessions, game-day posts, or wholesome family photos, Salah’s Instagram account offers a glimpse of the man behind the goals.
Salah’s significance to Egypt was once summed up perfectly by politician Mohamed Farag Amer, who said: “Salah is a symbol, like Tutankhamun or the pyramids.”
And judging by his follower count, millions agree.
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