The Fan Park crew has a look at more football players who made the seemingly impossible, possible.
Didier Drogba
The retired Ivorian international has played in France, Turkey, and England, and has represented his country on 104 occasions, scoring 65 goals - but his fortunes weren’t necessarily set in stone. Drogba moved to France from Ivory Coast when he was just four-years-old, after his parents wanted a better life for their son. He returned home a few years later, and after both parents lost their jobs, Drogba again moved to France to stay with his uncle. He started taking football seriously at 15 and was later scouted by a semi-pro side. Today, he is one of the best African forwards to have played in Europe!
Luis Suarez
Yes, he’s one of the most controversial footballers that we’ve ever seen, but Luis Suarez’s rise to fame stems from humble beginnings. Suarez took up a job as a street sweeper when he was a younger – and it was on the same poverty-stricken streets where he learnt his trade. Now just 28-years-old, he has played for giants such as Ajax Amsterdam, Liverpool and Barcelona.
Carlos Tevez
Over the years the Argentine has regularly wowed audiences with his determination and stamina, with many discussing his “a bulldog-like approach.” He grew up in a violent, drug-ridden area of Buenos Aires, and if it weren’t for football, he may have been another unfortunate victim to the streets. Now, years later, he has gone on to reach unbelievable heights - playing for clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus, proving that no dream is too big!
Thierry Henry
The former Arsenal legend grew up in Les Ulis, a suburb widely considered as the “ghettos” or “projects” of Paris. Although his family were poor, Henry’s level-head and focus is what earned him legendary status. The forward remains Arsenal’s record goal scorer and also enjoyed time at Barcelona.
Rivaldo
What can we say about Rivaldo? Well, years before he represented the likes of Barcelona and Milan, he grew up in the dangerous, gang-filled streets of Brazil - infamously known as the “Favelas.” But, even when he burst onto the scene, there were obvious signs that this player was destined for great things. Malnourishment caused the left-winger to suffer from bow-leggedness, but this never affected the player’s dreams. Rivaldo played 73 times for his country in an era where there were so many greats. He is a true inspiration!
These footballers made the best of their difficult situations! Can you name any other players who’ve gone from rags to riches? Give us your names and thoughts in the comments section below.
