When we think of footballers, the narrative usually centers around rags-to-riches stories.
However, some footballers were born into wealth and privilege long before they made their fortunes on the pitch. In this article, we’re taking a different approach and counting down the top 8 footballers who grew up rich before football made them even wealthier. Without further ado, here’s a list of footballers who never really had to worry about money—even before they started kicking a ball.
8. Mario Götze
World Cup-winning goal scorer Mario Götze comes from an intellectual and wealthy family. His father is a respected university professor who even brought young Mario to the U.S. for a year and a half during his academic collaborations with a university in Texas. Götze’s privileged upbringing helped him flourish both on and off the field.
7. Jean Luca Vialli
Late footballer Gianluca Vialli grew up in a life of absolute luxury. His father was a self-made millionaire, and Vialli spent his childhood in a massive 60-room castle in Italy. A far cry from the humble beginnings most footballers experience, Vialli was financially secure long before he became a legend with Juventus and Chelsea.
6. Andrea Pirlo
Andrea Pirlo is another footballer who never had to worry about money, even before his football career took off. His father founded Elg Steel, a successful metal trading company in Italy. Pirlo even owns a stake in the family business and has his own vineyard in Italy. When asked about his wealth, Pirlo nonchalantly said he never talks about money—classic rich person response.
5. Martin Braithwaite
Martin Braithwaite, the former Barcelona striker, may not be a household name like others on this list, but he’s easily one of the wealthiest. His family has long been involved in real estate, and they own hundreds of properties in New York City. Braithwaite and his uncle, Gareth Roger James Smith, are even working on developing a high-rise in New Jersey. With a reported net worth nearing $300 million, Braithwaite would’ve been just fine without football.
4. Antoine Griezmann
Another former Barcelona star on this list is Antoine Griezmann. His father was a town councilor and is now the president of a French football club, UF Mâcon. Growing up, Griezmann had plenty of privileges, including regular family holidays to Portugal. Though his football talent is undeniable, Griezmann didn’t exactly have to rely on the sport for his financial future.
3. Patrick Bamford
Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford comes from an incredibly wealthy background. His family is related to the Bamfords, who founded JCB, one of the world’s largest construction equipment companies. Bamford was even offered a place at Harvard University, which he rejected to pursue his footballing career in England. With skills in multiple languages and musical instruments, Bamford’s life screams privilege, and he continues to thrive both on and off the pitch.
2. Robin van Persie
Former Arsenal and Manchester United star Robin van Persie grew up in an artistic family in the Netherlands. His father was a successful sculptor, and his mother was a painter, jewelry designer, and teacher for children with special needs. While van Persie excelled in football, his artistic upbringing provided a financial safety net and fostered his passion for the sport.
1. Gerard Piqué
Topping our list is Gerard Piqué, the Barcelona legend. Piqué’s family wealth and influence run deep. His father is a successful businessman and lawyer, while his mother was a director at a hospital specializing in spinal injuries. Most notably, his grandfather, Amador Bernabéu, was the vice president of FC Barcelona. Piqué grew up surrounded by football royalty, making it clear that, with or without the sport, he was destined for success.
From inherited fortunes to family businesses, these players lived a life of luxury long before they ever kicked a football. Though their talent and dedication on the pitch can’t be denied, they certainly had a financial head start in life!
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