Let’s take a look at some of the most loyal players in the world football.
The love for a football club runs deep, and for some players, that passion keeps them loyal for years and even decades.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five players with the most time spent at one club, an achievement that is increasingly rare in modern football.
5- Igor Akinfeev – CSKA Moscow (20 years)
Starting off our list is the Russian goalkeeper, Igor Akinfeev, who has been a part of CSKA Moscow for over two decades. Akinfeev made his debut for CSKA Moscow in 2003, and he has been a mainstay in the team ever since. During his time at the club, Akinfeev has won six Russian Premier League titles, six Russian Cups, and the UEFA Cup in 2005.
4- Dean Lewington – Milton Keynes Dons (20 years)
Next on our list is Dean Lewington, the English left-back who has spent his entire career at Milton Keynes Dons. Lewington has made over 900 career appearances across all competitions, helping MK Dons achieve three promotions and lift the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy at Wembley Stadium in 2008.
3- Ismaeil Matar – Al-Wahda FC (21 years)
Ismaeil Matar is a left-winger from the United Arab Emirates who has spent his entire career (except for a short loan at Al Sadd) at Al-Wahda. Matar made his debut for the club in 2001 and has since gone on to make over 500 appearances for the team. In 2007, Matar led UAE to their first-ever trophy in the Golf Cup of Nations.
2- Koji Homma – Mito HollyHock (23 years)
Koji Homma is a goalkeeper from Japan who has spent his entire career at Mito HollyHock. Homma made his debut for the club in 2000 and has since gone on to make over 700 appearances. In 2014, he became the first player to have played 500 matches in the J2 League.
1- Lee Casciaro – Lincoln Red Imps FC (24 years)
Finally, we have Lee Casciaro, the centre-forward from Gibraltar who has spent his entire career at Lincoln Red Imps FC. Casciaro made his debut for the club in 1996 and has since gone on to make over 600 appearances for the team. During his time at the club, Casciaro has won a host of domestic titles and has scored over 200 goals for Lincoln Red Imps.