Messi fails to make list of most intellectual footballers ever as Chelsea legends dominate
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Messi fails to make list of most intellectual footballers ever as Chelsea legends dominate | Imago

Messi fails to make list of most intellectual footballers ever as Chelsea legends dominate

David Ben 09:34 - 30.04.2024

These footballers have proven that intellectual depth and success on the pitch can go hand in hand.

A recent report by Football 365, shed light on the most intellectually gifted footballers to have graced the beautiful game.

Among whom include Premier League legends such as Frank Lampard, Dennis Bergkamp, and Petr Cech.

However, the list didn’t include the Argentine maestro, Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi | Imago

Despite wining 8 Ballon d’Ors, the 36-year-old Inter Miami skipper wasn’t included on the list, having been touted as one of the most intelligent footballers on the planet.

Below is a list of world footballer’s who have left an indelible mark on both the field and the classroom.

Frank Lampard

Frank Lampard
Chelsea legend, Frank Lampard. (Photo Credit: TalkSport/X)
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Renowned for his high IQ and academic achievements, Lampard's 11 GCSEs, including an A* in Latin, set him apart.

Despite his football prowess, the Chelsea legend’s intellect shines through, even amid his association with the Conservative Party.

Dennis Bergkamp

Dennis Bergkamp
Bergkamp strikes the ball in his Arsenal days|imago
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While excelling on the field for Netherlands and Arsenal, Bergkamp pursued a medical engineering degree at the University of Bath, a testament to his multidimensional intellect.

His daughter's relationship with Donny van de Beek adds an intriguing twist to his story.

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Socrates

Socrates
Brazilian football legend Socrates | Imago

Socrates, a Brazilian football legend and philanthropist, was not just a midfield maestro but also a qualified doctor.

His intellectual depth was matched by his footballing prowess, earning him accolades as one of the best midfielders of his time.

In 1983, he was named South American Footballer of the Year and was widely seen as one of the best midfielders of his generation. Played for Fiorentina briefly.

Having spent most of his career at Corinthians, he passed away aged 57, after being married four times.

Petr Cech

Petr Cech
Petr Cech celebrating Chelsea's Champions League triumph in 2012 (IMAGO)
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Petr Cech's ability to speak seven languages highlights his linguistic aptitude, while his success on the pitch speaks for itself.

With a master's degree in Business Administration, Chelsea’s legendary goalkeeper has an intellect that is as impressive as his trophy cabinet.

Giorgio Chiellini

Chiellini
Juventus legend Giorgio Chiellini | Imago
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Chiellini's imposing presence on the field belies his academic accomplishments, including a BA in economics and commerce, followed by a master's degree in business administration.

The former Juventus defender, known for his defensive prowess and intellectual depth make him a standout figure in football history.

During his playing days, Chiellini was known for his strength, aggressiveness and man-marking, as well as his ability to play in either a three or four-man defense.

He is also widely regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation.

Simon Mignolet

Mignolet
Simon Mignolet | Imago
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Mignolet's linguistic prowess, fluently speaking Dutch, English, French, and German, coupled with his degree in political science, portrays a footballer with intellectual depth beyond the pitch.

His time at Liverpool likely fostered an intellectually stimulating environment.

After his five year stint at Anfield, the 36-year-old goalkeeper returned to his home country where he plays for Club Brugge.

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