The world of cinema —where dreams come true, and it seems, where footballers go to remind us their talents go beyond the football pitch. This phenomenon of footballers in film shows how versatile these athletes can be.

Let’s take a look at a surprising number of these athletes who have graced the silver screen – footballers in film.

1. Pelé

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Movie: Escape to Victory – 1981

Pelé stars as Corporal Luis Fernandez, a talented POW who plays alongside other prisoners in a soccer match against the German army during WWII. The film has since become a classic, combining sports with an intense war setting.

2. David Beckham

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Movie: Goal! The Dream Begins (and sequels) – 2005, 2007 and 2009

Beckham appears as himself, representing a pinnacle footballer that the protagonist, Santiago Muñez, admires and encounters as he pursues his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Beckham also appears in the film’s sequels.

3. Zinedine Zidane

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Movie: Asterix at the Olympic Games2008

Zidane has a humorous cameo as “Numérodis,” a Roman footballer who participates in an Olympic competition. His appearance adds comic relief to this action-comedy based on the popular Asterix comic series.

4. Eric Cantona

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Movie: Looking for Eric – 2009

Cantona plays himself in a pivotal role, guiding and inspiring a down-on-his-luck fan, Eric Bishop, who idolizes him. Cantona’s character acts as a mentor, encouraging the protagonist to find courage and purpose in his life.

5. Vinnie Jones

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Movie: Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels – 1998

Known for his tough image, Jones plays Big Chris, a debt-collector in this gritty crime thriller. His performance here led to a successful acting career, with Jones often cast in “tough guy” roles across various films.

6. Ian Wright

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Movie: Gun of the Black Sun – 2011

Wright plays a former footballer who gets drawn into a mystery involving a supernatural artifact. The film mixes elements of crime and horror, with Wright stepping into an unconventional role for a footballer.

7. Frank Leboeuf

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Movie: The Theory of Everything – 2014

In this biographical drama about Stephen Hawking, Leboeuf appears as a doctor who treats Hawking. Though a small role, his performance was well-received and showcased his versatility as an actor beyond sports.

8. Thierry Henry

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Movie: Entourage (film adaptation)- 2015

Henry plays himself in the movie adaptation of the popular TV show Entourage, where he interacts with the main characters at a party. His cameo adds a touch of glamour, blending football stardom with Hollywood.

9. Neymar

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Movie: xXx: Return of Xander Cage – 2017

Neymar has a cameo in this action film, where he plays himself. His role involves a comedic moment where he skillfully uses a napkin holder as a weapon, showing off his skills and quick reflexes.

10. Raúl Jiménez

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Movie: The Secret of Your Eyes (Mexican adaptation)- 2019

In the Mexican remake of the critically acclaimed The Secret in Their Eyes, Jiménez plays a small role. His appearance was a notable crossover moment for Mexican football and cinema.

So there you have it— footballers in film. The players strutting their stuff on the silver screen. Whether they’re flexing their muscles, delivering monologues, or simply trying to act like they know what to do with a script, they all remind us that the world of football is just as entertaining off the pitch as it is on.

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