Raymond Kopa

Born Kopaszewski in 1931, Kopa grew up in northern France and turned his speed and close control into a career that rewrote what an attacking midfielder could do. He joined Real Madrid in the mid-1950s and became the creative engine behind three consecutive European Cup wins, threading passes and finishing chances in an era when the tournament was new and prestige still forming. In 1958 he won the Ballon d'Or, recognition that placed him among the best in the world. A decade later France made him the first footballer to receive the Legion of Honour, and in 2004 Pelé included him on FIFA's list…