Most Successful Retired Soccer Players
Retirement from professional soccer doesn’t mark the end of a player’s journey; rather, it opens doors to new opportunities and avenues for lasting impact on the sport and society. In this article, we delve into the lives of some of the most successful retired soccer players, examining their achievements on and off the field.
Criteria for Success
Determining the success of retired soccer players involves various metrics beyond their on-field performance. Factors such as accolades, contributions to the sport, and endeavors post-retirement play crucial roles in defining their legacy.
10. Gianfranco Zola (Italy)
Zola has inspired a prosperous management career since he retired. From 2006 to 2008, he served as the Italian under-21 team’s coach.
After taking over as manager of West Ham United in 2008, he was fired after the 2009–2010 campaign. Following that, Watford and Zola inked a two-year contract.
9. Gerd Muller (Germany)
German retired soccer players The most renowned striker in Germany was Muller. He struggled with alcohol after retirement, but he entered a program for treatment and was able to kick the habit.
He has long since served as Bayern Munich’s coach after it. Muller has also amassed an assortment of Adidas clothing. In addition, he is ranked among the all-time top scorers in the Bundesliga.
8. Pelé (Brazil)
Football fans frequently consider former Brazilian soccer star Pele among the greatest football players ever. Among the Game’s True Legends. The 72-year-old former Brazilian celebrity is well-known for his work as an ambassador. Pelé has served as the UN’s and UNESCO’s goodwill representative for ecology and the environment.
In addition to writing multiple memoirs, he has also appeared in documentaries. 2010, he was also named the New York Cosmos’ Honorary President. On December 29, 2022, we recently lost this legend of football.
7. Ronaldo (Brazil)
Although he had some problems, the former Brazilian striker has grown up. Co-owner of the Brazilian A1 squad is he. 2014 also saw Ronaldo tipped to become the Brazilian Football Confederation’s President.
In addition, he has several prosperous business endeavors, both inside and outside the football league. This famous Brazilian also occasionally appears in his native country as a commentator for big matches.
6. Gary Neville (England)
Neville has started a coaching career after retiring. In 2012, he was added to the coaching staff of the England squad and earned a UEFA coaching license. Neville’s great accomplishments in football were recognized with an honorary degree from the University Ghostwriting of Bolton.
He writes essays for several TV channels and frequently appears in the media. Neville is ranked sixth among former soccer players who have achieved the greatest success.
Read More: Best Coaches Of International Football.
5. Zinedine Zidane (France)
Zidane, a French soccer player who is now retired, is still regarded as the best playmaker in history and is among the best Muslim athletes of all time. In addition to his skill, he was well-known for his headbutt of Materazzi at the 2006 World Cup final.
Zidane has been a regular player for Real Madrid Veterans since his retirement. During the tenure of former manager Jose Mourinho, he also joined Real Madrid’s coaching staff and most recently held the position of head manager. In addition, he has millions of dollars worth of endorsements.
4. Sir Bobby Charlton (England)
Sir Bobby Charlton, the most renowned midfield player from Manchester United in English history, accepted the Preston North End manager role.
He then rose to the director position at Wigan Athletic and is currently a Manchester United board of directors member. Charlton was the first player to be inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame.
Additionally, in 2008, he was awarded the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, he is a member of the Laureus World Sports Academy and has participated in several respectable humanitarian groups and events.
3. Luis Figo (Portugal)
Even though his football career is gone, the Portugal international player, who played for many well-known teams like Real Madrid and Internazionale, is quite successful. He shared a seat with Team Portugal in the 2005–2006 A1 Grand Prix.
He represents both Stop TB Partnership and Internazionale as an ambassador. In addition, he founded a bar in Portugal and Network 90.
2. Eric Cantona (France)
The former French striker entered the media after retiring. He appeared in several TV spots and motion pictures. In addition, Cantona was appointed the beach football team’s captain for France. Additionally, he briefly appeared on a French rock group Dionysos’ CD.
When Cantona was named director of soccer by the New York Cosmos in 2011, he returned to the football world. In addition, he supported two football video games and participated in various political actions.
1. David Beckham (England)
David Beckham, an English Successful Retired Soccer Player now retired, is among the most attractive football players ever. He has had an incredibly successful career both on and off the field.
He was incredibly popular during his heyday, and maybe he is even more so today. Beckham has it all, from his multimillion-euro endorsements to his status as a style icon.
Even in 2023, his humanitarian endeavors, television appearances, and role as the global representative of Chinese football have made him the most successful retired soccer player in history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey of retired soccer players is a testament to the transformative power of sports. From humble beginnings to global stardom, their stories inspire millions worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
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