The Premier League has been home to numerous world-class talents, and Didier Drogba certainly ranks among the elite.
Chelsea brought the Ivorian striker over from Marseille in 2004, and he went on to win four Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy across two spells with the club. Beyond his on-pitch success, Drogba earned widespread admiration for his charitable work and philanthropy.
He also played a key role in the American soccer scene as a founding player-owner of USL Championship side Phoenix Rising before retiring in 2018. Post-retirement, Drogba has twice co-hosted the prestigious Ballon d’Or awards ceremony, where Lionel Messi claimed the men’s award both times, with Megan Rapinoe and Alexia Putellas winning the women’s honor.
In a chat with B/R Football, Drogba was asked to name a player he believes was unfairly denied the Ballon d’Or — a prize given to the world’s top footballer as voted by journalists. He didn’t hesitate to pick a former London rival, showering him with praise.
“Thierry Henry,” Drogba responded. “He deserved it like ten times. He was outstanding in the Premier League, brilliant for his country, and exceptional in the Champions League. He scored goals, decided matches on his own, and lifted his team.”
Henry, originally a winger, was transformed by Arsène Wenger into one of the most lethal strikers in Premier League history. He netted 175 goals in 258 league appearances between 1999 and 2012 — the best goals-per-game ratio among players with 100+ Premier League goals.
Known for his graceful style and explosive ability to beat defenders, Henry led Arsenal to two Premier League titles, including the historic 2003-04 “Invincibles” season. He also helped secure three FA Cups and reached the Champions League final in 2006 before moving to Barcelona, where he won two La Liga titles and finally lifted the Champions League trophy in 2009.
In 2021, Henry was inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players the league has ever seen.