Most soccer players are loved by their supporters throughout the world and receive encouragement from the stands anytime they step foot onto the field, but there are some that people just don't like for.
Some soccer players, whether as a result of what they've said or done, attract the enmity of particular fans or groups, even though they may not have done anything wrong other than score a goal against their team's rivals.
Today, we'll go over our list of the soccer players who we think deserve to be on it the most and examine what they accomplished to earn that distinction. Let's begin straight away.
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10 Most Hated Soccer Players of All Time
While soccer is known for bringing joy and unity to fans worldwide, it has also produced its fair share of controversial and polarizing figures. In this article, we'll delve into the realm of the most hated soccer players of all time. These players have garnered significant attention and divided opinions due to their actions, behavior, or on-field demeanor. It is important to note that these rankings are subjective and based on historical controversies and public perception.
1. Luis Suarez:
What should we say about this wretch first? When he handled on the goal line to stop Ghana from scoring against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup, Luis Suarez first gained the ire of most fans. He bit an opponent with Ajax.
Suarez was frequently accused of diving after joining the Premier League and scoring numerous penalties for Liverpool. He was also suspended for making racial slurs against Patrice Evra. Following that, the Uruguayan vampire bit Giorgio Chiellini in a 2014 World Cup match against Italy and Branislav Ivanovich in a 2013 match against Chelsea in a series of three additional "bites" (see video below).
- Known for multiple biting incidents during his career.
- Persistent diving and simulation.
- Infamous handball incident against Ghana in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
2. Diego Costa:
Diego Costa has a history of losing his cool and yelling at teammates, leading to multiple claims of violent behavior, including stamping on opponents. Costa seems to engage in psychological warfare while playing games, trying to instigate the conflicts he is in. In fact, Costa's Chelsea colleague Kurt Zouma acknowledged that Costa enjoys cheating in 2015.
Because of this lack of dignity and character, Costa presumably made fun of Seamus Coleman's own goal in 2014, and despite his reputation as a "hard man," he frequently pretends to be hurt when there is little to no contact.
- Notorious for his aggressive playing style and on-field confrontations.
- Accused of play-acting and provoking opponents.
- Frequent altercations with players and officials.
3. Sergio Ramos:
Before joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Sergio Ramos had a lengthy and illustrious career as the dirtiest player for Real Madrid. Ramos, who owns the La Liga record with 26 dismissals, was dismissed before that action. His stellar red card record currently includes two for PSG.
Ramos is a well-known hard-tackling defender with a foul disposition and a propensity for elbowing and kicking his opponents. Ramos will do whatever to prevent the opponent from scoring, including use his hands. He has become a notoriously despised player as a result, leading to outbursts of laughter whenever he accidentally balloons a penalty into the crowd.
- Accused of controversial tackles and aggressive behavior.
- Numerous yellow and red card offenses.
- Often perceived as arrogant and unsportsmanlike.
4. Pepe:
- Known for his physical and aggressive playing style.
- Involved in various altercations and controversial incidents.
- Accused of intentionally injuring opponents.
5. Zlatan Ibrahimovic:
Perceived as arrogant and disrespectful by some.
Known for confrontations with teammates and opponents.
Frequently involved in controversy, both on and off the field.
6. Joey Barton:
Joey Barton, a similarly aggressive midfielder on the opposite side of the English Channel, was renowned for his occasionally explosive temper.
Throughout his playing career at different clubs across the nation, his attitude on the pitch resulted in his getting countless red cards.
However, Barton's transgressions off the field are well known. The Englishman was charged by the FA with aggressive behavior after beating a young guy and a teenager, and he received a brief prison sentence.
Many people anticipated that Barton would disappear after he stopped playing. But this wasn't the case because he earned his coaching credentials and started managing teams in the lower divisions of English soccer.
- Infamous for his aggressive nature on and off the field.
- Involved in violent altercations with players and officials.
- Numerous disciplinary issues and controversial remarks.
7. Harry Maguire
Embed from Getty ImagesHarry Maguire, a defender for Manchester United and England, is universally despised by Red Devils supporters, despite the fact that he done nothing to specifically offend them other than perform below their high expectations.
Maguire broke the transfer record for the most expensive defender in the world when he transferred from Leicester City to the club in 2019 for an eye-popping sum of over £75 million.
Despite the expensive price tag, many people at the time thought the decision was wise. Maguire quickly established himself as a crucial member of the Manchester United team, earning the position of captain from then-coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
8. Ashley Cole
When the Premier League was founded in 1992, money quickly became the guiding principle of English soccer.
Soccer was mega-rich for the first time in its history, and players immediately made transfers that permitted them to follow the money. Talented full-back Ashley Cole made the jump from Arsenal to Chelsea in 2006 in one of the most infamous such deals.
Cole quickly earned the moniker "Cashley" from rival supporters who thought he only changed teams for the money after signing a deal that was significantly more lucrative than his previous one. This is a position that Cole would subsequently demonstrate to be accurate after confessing in his autobiography to seeking money.
Cole is despised for being an unfaithful spouse to his ex-wife Cheryl, in addition to his desire for financial gain. The Chelsea icon is believed to have had multiple affairs with his then-wife, which to their separation.
9. Luis Figo:
- Hated by fans of his former club Barcelona after leaving for bitter rivals Real Madrid.
- Subjected to intense hostility during matches against Barcelona.
- Symbolic of the heated rivalry between the two clubs.
10. John Terry:
- Controversial figure due to alleged off-field incidents and affairs.
- Involved in racially charged altercations.
- Divisive opinions on his leadership style and behavior.
Final Thoughts: 10 Most Hated Players of All Time
The world of soccer has witnessed its fair share of controversial and polarizing figures. The players listed here have faced animosity from fans, opponents, and critics due to their actions, demeanor, or perceived unsportsmanlike behavior. However, it is important to remember that these rankings are based on public opinion and may vary depending on personal perspectives and allegiances.
While some of these players are admired for their skills and achievements on the field, their behavior or actions have caused them to be widely disliked by others. Like any sport, soccer evokes strong emotions, and the players who provoke such feelings often leave a lasting impact on the game's history.
It is important to foster respect and fair play within the sport, focusing on the positive aspects and celebrating the players who contribute to the beauty of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most loved player in soccer?
According to the stats you get from the football player with the most fans, Cristiano Ronaldo is the most loved player.
Who is the greatest female footballer ever?
The greatest player in the history of women's football is the Brazilian legend Marta. While she never won a Women's World Cup, finishing runner-up in 2007, she still shined on the biggest FIFA stage, becoming the all-time leading goal scorer at the Women's World Cup with 17 career strikes, and possibly more to come.
How many Ronaldo fans in the world?
in 2023 Cristiano Ronaldo is the most followed football player on social media. With over 807 million followers Portuguese striker is on the first position, overcoming the 2nd place, where is Lionel Messi, with more than 270 million followers.