Football is a game of passion, and footballers are possibly the most popular athletes in the world. Legendary players, on the other hand, gain more than simply love when they spend time on the field. Great footballers acquire not only everyone’s respect, attention, and adoration, but also a substantial sum of money and recognition.
However, after retirement, this may not always remain the case. When kids are no longer playing on the fields, a lot of things change. Sometimes the situation becomes so dire that the footballers are forced to assume professions they could never have imagined.
Here are five players who become one-club legends towards the end of their careers.
Paolo Maldini of AC Milan
Paolo Maldini, widely regarded as the finest defender in the sport’s history, spent his entire 25-year professional career with AC Milan, earning countless professional and individual awards in the process. The Italian, who could play everywhere in the backline, made a total of 902 appearances for Milan during his career, helping them win 25 championships.
Francesco Totti of AS Roma
Francesco Totti, dubbed “Il Capitano,” is AS Roma’s best-ever player, having spent his whole career in Rome, winning one Serie A title, two Coppa Italia titles, and two SupercoppaItaliana titles. The playmaker is the club’s all-time leading goal scorer and appearance maker, among other accolades.
Ryan Giggs of Manchester United
Ryan Giggs, one of the most decorated players of all time, began his Manchester United career in 1990 and remained at Old Trafford until his retirement in 2014. During his time with the Red Devils, the Welshman made 932 appearances, scoring 163 goals, registering 250 assists, and won 35 awards.
Paul Scholes of Manchester United
Paul Scholes came through Manchester United’s development system and is recognized as the “best central midfielder” in the world over the last 20 years by Xavi, Thierry Henry, and other luminaries. Throughout his career, the 46-year-old remained at Old Trafford, making 710 appearances, scoring 152 goals, contributing 75 assists, and winning 27 awards.
Carles Puyol of Barcelona
Carles Puyol will be remembered as the best captain and one of Barcelona’s greatest defenders, with the Spaniard serving as an inspirational figure for the team. Puyol made 593 appearances for the Catalan giants, contributing to all 23 titles he won during his tenure there.
