Football has a rich history of cult heroes, players who may not have achieved widespread fame and success, but who are beloved by a dedicated group of fans. Here are some of the best football cult heroes
Rene Higuita – Higuita was known for his daring, attacking style of play as a goalkeeper. He would often venture far out of his area to make tackles and clearances, earning him the nickname “El Loco” (The Madman). His most famous moment came in a friendly match against England in 1995 when he made a stunning “Scorpion Kick” save to deny a goal-bound shot from Jamie Redknapp.
Jay-Jay Okocha – Okocha was a talented Nigerian midfielder known for his incredible dribbling skills and flair on the ball. He played for a number of top clubs during his career, including PSG, Bolton Wanderers, and Fenerbahce. He was also a key player for the Nigerian national team, helping them to win the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994 and 2010.
Francesco Totti – Totti spent his entire career at AS Roma, becoming a legend at the club and earning the nickname “Il Capitano” (The Captain) for his leadership and dedication. He was a talented forward with excellent vision and passing ability, and he helped Roma to win the Serie A title in 2001.
Vinnie Jones – Jones was a tough-tackling midfielder known for his aggressive style of play. He played for a number of clubs during his career, including Wimbledon, Leeds United, and Chelsea. After retiring from football, he went on to have a successful career as an actor, appearing in films such as Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and X-Men: The Last Stand.
Jan Molby – Molby was a Danish midfielder who played for Liverpool during the 1980s. He was known for his excellent passing ability and vision, and he helped Liverpool to win three league titles and the European Cup during his time at the club.
Faustino Asprilla – Asprilla was a talented Colombian forward who played for Newcastle United in the mid-1990s. He was known for his explosive pace and skill on the ball, and he helped Newcastle to reach the FA Cup final in 1998. He also had a successful international career, helping Colombia to reach the quarter-finals of the 1990 and 1994 World Cups.
Dimitar Berbatov – Berbatov was a stylish Bulgarian forward who played for a number of top clubs during his career, including Bayer Leverkusen, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Fulham. He was known for his excellent control of the ball and clinical finishing ability, and he won two Premier League titles with Manchester United.
Ali Dia – Dia famously tricked Southampton into signing him with false claims about his playing ability. He made just one appearance for the club before being released, and he is widely regarded as one of the worst signings in football history.
Paul Gascoigne – Gascoigne was an English midfielder who played for a number of clubs during his career, including Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Lazio. He was known for his skill and creativity on the pitch, as well as his off-field antics. He helped England to reach the semi-finals of the 1990 World Cup and is widely regarded as one of the most talented English footballers of his generation.
Jorge Campos – Campos was a Mexican goalkeeper who was known for his flamboyant style of play. He often wore brightly colored jerseys and would occasionally play as a striker during the latter part of his career. He played for a number of clubs in Mexico and the United States, and he also had a successful international career, helping Mexico to win the Gold Cup in 1993
Do you have a item of memorabilia from one of these Cult Hero’s at home? Explore our football framing options here
