Footballers Who Were Already Wealthy Before Making it Big
Football has always been known for transforming lives, especially with the eye-watering sums of money involved for top players. While many footballers have come from humble beginnings to achieve fame and fortune, there is a lesser-known group who were born into immense wealth before they even kicked a ball. Here are nine footballers who were already affluent before making it big in the sport.
1. **Hugo Lloris**
Hugo Lloris, the former Tottenham and France goalkeeper, started from a privileged background in the south of France. His father worked as an investment banker, and his mother was a successful lawyer. Lloris grew up in the scenic French Riviera and had a comfortable upbringing surrounded by luxury. He currently plays for LA FC in Major League Soccer and won the World Cup with France in 2018.
2. **Patrick Bamford**
Leeds forward Patrick Bamford also came from a wealthy background. He attended a prestigious fee-charging school in Nottingham, excelled academically, and even had the opportunity to study at Harvard University. Despite rumours suggesting otherwise, Bamford clarified that his family background was not as affluent as some believed.
3. **Mario Gotze**
Mario Gotze, known for his time at Borussia Dortmund, has a father who is a renowned technology and engineering expert. His father’s influence may have played a role in Mario’s success in football, culminating in his memorable goal in the 2014 World Cup final for Germany.
4. **Andrea Pirlo**
Italian legend Andrea Pirlo’s family name was already well-known in Brescia, thanks to his father Luigi, who founded a steel company in the city. Pirlo also owns a vineyard and has a keen interest in winemaking, showing his diverse talents beyond the football pitch.
5. **Gianluca Vialli**
Gianluca Vialli, the late Sampdoria, Juventus, and Chelsea player, had a childhood spent in a grand castle in Cremona. After retiring from playing, Vialli moved into football management and achieved success, including victory at Euro 2020. Despite his battle with cancer, Vialli left a lasting legacy in the sport.
6. **Will Hughes**
Crystal Palace midfielder Will Hughes attended Repton School in Derbyshire, known for producing notable alumni like Jeremy Clarkson and Roald Dahl. Hughes faced a crucial decision between pursuing football or academics before embarking on his professional career.
7. **Robin van Persie**
Dutch football icon Robin van Persie grew up in a household of creatives, with his parents both involved in artistic pursuits. Despite his artistic lineage, van Persie dedicated himself to football, playing for top clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United before transitioning into coaching.
8. **Oliver Bierhoff**
Oliver Bierhoff’s father, a utility magnate, instilled a strong work ethic in him from a young age. Bierhoff clinched the Euro 96 title for Germany and had a successful playing career before moving into leadership roles in football.
9. **Gerard Pique**
Gerard Pique, known for his successful football career, also has a family background steeped in wealth and business acumen. Pique’s entrepreneurial ventures, including his sports and media investment group Kosmos, reflect his family’s legacy of success in Catalonia.
While these footballers may have been born into wealth, their journeys in the sport have showcased their talent, determination, and ability to succeed on their terms. From castles to vineyards, their backgrounds have added unique dimensions to their football careers, proving that success can come in many forms in the world of football.