They had fame, fortune, and the world at their feet. However, some of football’s biggest names lost everything through poor choices, addictions, and mismanagement, and went bankrupt.
The recent case of former Manchester United defender Wes Brown serves as a reminder that success in football does not always guarantee financial security.
So, here are the seven footballers who went from millionaire lifestyles to complete bankruptcy.
7 footballers who lost it all and went bankrupt
Wes Brown
The ex-Manchester United defender earned more than £56k per week during his peak years.
Furthermore, he collected 10 major trophies with the Red Devils, including two Champions League titles.
However, Brown was declared bankrupt by an English court despite reportedly earning over £10 million in his career.
Paul Gascoigne
Known as one of England’s most gifted players, Paul Gascoigne also battled severe personal issues. His struggles with alcohol and mental health eventually led to bankruptcy in 2016.
He owed more than £50,000 in unpaid taxes at the time. Moreover, Paul Gascoigne played 57 times for England and he also had spells with Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, and Rangers,
Gascoigne’s personal battles overshadowed his footballing brilliance.
George Best
George Best, the Northern Irish legend and 1968 Ballon d’Or winner, suffered from alcohol and gambling addictions.
His lavish lifestyle drained his fortune, leaving him in constant financial turmoil. Also, despite his global fame, Best spent much of his later life facing mounting debts.
Eric Djemba-Djemba
Once hailed as the next big talent at Manchester United, Eric Djemba-Djemba struggled after leaving England.
Djemba-Djemba was declared bankrupt by a Birmingham court while playing for Qatar SC, despite earning £15,000 per month.
Daniel Kennedy
Daniel Kennedy, who represented Benfica and FC Porto, lost his wealth due to a dangerous casino addiction.
Furthermore, a doping ban before the 2002 World Cup derailed his career, costing him his form and fortune.
David James
Former England goalkeeper David James once earned £50,000 a week at Portsmouth and was reportedly worth £20 million.
However, his 2005 divorce from wife Tanya and financial missteps led him to bankruptcy in 2014.
Adrian Mutu
Romanian striker Adrian Mutu joined Chelsea in 2003 for £22.5 million but tested positive for cocaine months later.
The club sued him, and a Swiss court ordered him to pay over £17 million in damages. Moreover, reports from Romania claimed Mutu filed for bankruptcy after years of failed repayments.
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