Football fans love their favorite players, but how much do you know about them? Beyond their skills on the pitch, many footballers have fascinating stories, hidden talents, and quirky habits that will leave you amazed. In this article, we’ll reveal 10 surprising facts about famous footballers you probably never knew. Get ready to see your favorite stars in a new light in 2025!
Contents
- 1. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Pre-Match Ritual
- 2. Lionel Messi’s Hidden Talent
- 3. Neymar’s Love for Poker
- 4. Mohamed Salah’s Generosity
- 5. Kylian Mbappé’s Lightning Speed
- 6. Erling Haaland’s Unusual Diet
- 7. Virgil van Dijk’s Basketball Skills
- 8. Bruno Fernandes’ Gaming Obsession
- 9. Robert Lewandowski’s Martial Arts Training
- 10. Kevin De Bruyne’s Chess Mastermind
1. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Pre-Match Ritual
Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his incredible discipline and work ethic, but did you know he has a unique pre-match ritual? Before every game, Ronaldo steps onto the pitch with his right foot first. He believes this brings him good luck and sets the tone for a winning performance. It’s just one of the many habits contributing to his legendary career.
2. Lionel Messi’s Hidden Talent
Lionel Messi is a magician with the ball, but his talents don’t stop there. Messi is also an amazing cook! He loves preparing traditional Argentine dishes for his family and friends. He once said that if he weren’t a footballer, he’d probably be a chef. Who knew the GOAT had such culinary skills?
3. Neymar’s Love for Poker
Neymar isn’t just a football superstar; he’s also a professional-level poker player. He’s participated in several high-stakes poker tournaments and even won a major event in 2024. Neymar says poker helps him stay calm and focused under pressure, skills that translate to the football pitch.
4. Mohamed Salah’s Generosity
Mohamed Salah is not only a goal-scoring machine but also one of the most generous footballers in the world. He’s donated millions to his hometown in Egypt, building schools, hospitals, and even a youth center. Salah’s humility and kindness off the pitch have made him a role model for millions.
5. Kylian Mbappé’s Lightning Speed
Kylian Mbappé is one of the fastest players in football history, but did you know he’s almost as fast as Usain Bolt? In 2024, Mbappé was clocked running at 38 km/h (23.6 mph), just shy of Bolt’s world record of 44.72 km/h (27.8 mph). No wonder defenders struggle to keep up with him!
6. Erling Haaland’s Unusual Diet
Erling Haaland’s incredible physique and goal-scoring prowess are partly due to his unique diet. Haaland follows a high-calorie diet that includes cow heart and liver to boost his iron levels. He also drinks a special protein shake made with water, salt, and milk. It might sound strange, but it’s working for him!
7. Virgil van Dijk’s Basketball Skills
Before becoming one of the best defenders in football, Virgil van Dijk was a talented basketball player. He played at a competitive level during his teenage years and even considered pursuing a basketball career. Thankfully for Liverpool fans, he chose football instead!
8. Bruno Fernandes’ Gaming Obsession
Bruno Fernandes is not just a midfield maestro; he’s also a hardcore gamer. He’s a huge fan of the FIFA video game series and often streams his gameplay on Twitch. Fernandes even joked that he’s better at FIFA than real-life football—though his performances on the pitch suggest otherwise!
9. Robert Lewandowski’s Martial Arts Training
Robert Lewandowski’s incredible fitness and agility are partly thanks to his martial arts training. He practices Brazilian jiu-jitsu and has a black belt in karate. Lewandowski says martial arts help him stay balanced and focused, both on and off the pitch.
10. Kevin De Bruyne’s Chess Mastermind
Kevin De Bruyne’s vision and intelligence on the pitch are unmatched, and it turns out he’s a chess enthusiast too. De Bruyne often plays chess to sharpen his strategic thinking and decision-making skills. It’s no wonder he’s one of the best playmakers in the world!
Footballers are more than just athletes—they’re fascinating individuals with unique stories and talents. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s lucky rituals to Kevin De Bruyne’s chess skills, these 10 surprising facts show a different side of your favorite stars in 2025. Which fact shocked you the most? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow football fans!
