From pitch to profession: seven football legends and their surprising post-retirement careers
While some retired football stars choose to remain in the sport as pundits or coaches, others have pursued paths far removed from the stadium. From high-stakes politics to the hospitality industry, these athletes have proven that life after professional football can be as diverse as it is unexpected.
The transition to new industries
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel recently joked about his post-retirement life, quipping that he has essentially become a full-time "Uber driver" while ferrying his children around. While his comment was made in jest, it highlights the drastic shift many players experience after leaving the professional game. For many, the transition involves moving into creative, entrepreneurial, or even public service roles.
Creative and entertainment ventures
Several high-profile players have leveraged their fame to break into the entertainment industry. Eric Cantona, the iconic Manchester United forward, has transitioned into a successful career as an actor and musician. Since retiring, he has appeared in numerous French films and television series, and in March, he released his debut album, Perfect Imperfection.
Similarly, former Wimbledon and Leeds midfielder Vinnie Jones has found significant success on the screen. After making his acting debut in the 1998 film Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Jones has become a familiar face in various productions. Most recently, he has gained acclaim for his role in the hit Netflix series The Gentlemen, appearing in both seasons of the show.
Entrepreneurship and unique business paths
Other legends have opted for more unconventional business ventures. Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen turned his attention to horse racing, co-founding the elite Manor House Stables facility. His family has also become involved, with his daughter, Gemma Owen, pursuing a career as a jockey.
In a more surprising turn, former Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has balanced two distinct post-football interests. He is a qualified tattoo artist who invested in the platform Tattoodo, and in 2013, he launched a sewage management company named KloAgger.
Meanwhile, Newcastle cult hero Faustino Asprilla made headlines in 2014 by becoming the face of his own condom brand, Tino Condoms. He later utilized his stockpile of 3.5 million units to help address a global shortage during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns.
Hospitality and public service
For some, retirement has meant a quieter life. Former West Ham and Manchester City star Steve Lomas now co-owns the Causeway Guest Accommodation, a 13-bed bed and breakfast on the coast of County Antrim. Lomas is hands-on with the business, often managing the kitchen and interacting with international guests.
Perhaps the most significant career shift belongs to George Weah. The former Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan star, and the only African player to win the Ballon d'Or, entered politics in his home nation. Weah served as the 25th President of Liberia for six years before leaving office in 2024 following a re-election defeat.
