Football is a dynamic sport where adaptability can make or break a player’s career. Over the years, many top players have experienced dramatic transformations in their roles on the field, with some positional changes significantly enhancing their performances. These shifts often bring out hidden talents, allowing players to exploit new areas of the game and become even more valuable to their teams. Whether it’s a winger moving to a central position, a defensive midfielder becoming an attacking force, or a full-back stepping into a more creative role, these changes have proven to be pivotal for many footballers.
In this article, we take a closer look at the top 20 players who became better after changing positions, highlighting how their versatility and willingness to adapt helped them unlock new levels of success in their careers. From world-class playmakers to defensive rockstars, these players have redefined their roles, leaving a lasting impact on the pitch.
1. Thierry Henry (Winger to Striker)
Arsenal’s legendary forward Thierry Henry began his career as a winger. It was under Arsène Wenger’s guidance that Henry transitioned to a central striker role, where his pace, skill, and finishing made him one of the most feared forwards in football history.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Winger to Forward)
Starting as a winger at Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo evolved into a more central attacking role at Real Madrid. This change allowed him to focus on goal-scoring, helping him break numerous records and win multiple Ballon d’Or titles.
3. Gareth Bale (Left-Back to Winger)
Gareth Bale’s explosive speed and powerful shot were initially showcased as a left-back at Tottenham Hotspur. His move to the wing unlocked his attacking potential, leading to a high-profile transfer to Real Madrid.
4. Andrea Pirlo (Attacking Midfielder to Deep-Lying Playmaker)
Andrea Pirlo’s switch from an attacking midfielder to a deep-lying playmaker at AC Milan and later Juventus highlighted his vision and passing prowess, cementing his status as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.
5. Sergio Ramos (Right-Back to Centre-Back)
Sergio Ramos started as a right-back but found his true calling as a centre-back at Real Madrid. His leadership, aerial ability, and knack for crucial goals made him a defensive icon.
6. Bastian Schweinsteiger (Winger to Central Midfielder)
Bastian Schweinsteiger’s move from the wing to central midfield at Bayern Munich allowed him to control games with his passing, stamina, and tactical intelligence, becoming a key player for both club and country.
7. Lionel Messi (Winger to False Nine)
Pep Guardiola’s decision to deploy Lionel Messi as a false nine at Barcelona revolutionized the role and unlocked a new level of goal-scoring and playmaking brilliance, leading to unprecedented success.
8. David Alaba (Left-Back to Centre-Back/Midfielder)
David Alaba’s versatility saw him transition from left-back to various roles, including centre-back and midfielder at Bayern Munich, showcasing his adaptability and all-round footballing skills.
9. Robin van Persie (Winger to Striker)
Robin van Persie started as a winger but flourished as a striker at Arsenal and Manchester United. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement made him one of the Premier League’s top scorers.
10. Joshua Kimmich (Right-Back to Central Midfielder)
Joshua Kimmich’s transition from right-back to central midfield at Bayern Munich allowed him to utilize his passing range, vision, and tactical acumen, becoming one of the world’s best in his new role.
11. Vincent Kompany (Defensive Midfielder to Centre-Back)
Vincent Kompany’s move from a defensive midfield position to centre-back at Manchester City was pivotal. His defensive solidity and leadership were crucial in City’s rise to prominence.
12. Luka Modric (Attacking Midfielder to Central Midfielder)
Luka Modric’s deeper role at Real Madrid allowed him to dictate the tempo of games and utilize his creativity, contributing significantly to the club’s numerous Champions League triumphs.
13. Ronald Koeman (Midfielder to Centre-Back)
Ronald Koeman’s switch to centre-back at Barcelona highlighted his defensive skills and goal-scoring ability from the back, making him a key player in Johan Cruyff’s “Dream Team.”
14. Paul Scholes (Forward to Central Midfielder)
Paul Scholes began as a forward but became one of Manchester United’s greatest central midfielders. His vision, passing, and goal-scoring from midfield were instrumental in United’s success.
15. Yaya Toure (Centre-Back to Midfielder)
Yaya Toure’s transition from centre-back to midfielder at Manchester City unlocked his physical presence, passing, and goal-scoring ability, making him a powerhouse in the Premier League.
16. Bukayo Saka ( Left-Back to Right Winger)
At Arsenal, Saka initially played as a left-back due to injuries within the squad. He acknowledged that left-back wasn’t his natural position but viewed it as a learning experience.  Over time, he transitioned to a more advanced role on the right wing, where he has become a key player for both Arsenal and the England national team. Despite suggestions for him to return to left-back to address positional shortages, Saka has expressed his preference for attacking roles, emphasizing his comfort and effectiveness further up the pitch. 
17. Jules Koundé (Center-Back to Right-Back)
Jules Koundé, primarily a center-back, has often been deployed as a right-back at FC Barcelona to accommodate the team’s tactical requirements. While he has performed admirably in this role, Koundé has conveyed his preference for playing centrally. He discussed this with coach Xavi Hernández, expressing his desire to return to his natural center-back position. Despite this, he remains committed to contributing wherever needed, demonstrating versatility and team spirit.
18. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Winger to Striker)
Aubameyang started as a winger but found greater success as a central striker. This change allowed him to fully utilize his speed and finishing skills, becoming a top scorer in European football.
19. Fabinho (Right-Back to Defensive Midfielder)
Fabinho began his career as a right-back but found greater success after moving into a defensive midfield role at AS Monaco and later at Liverpool. His ability to break up opposition play and distribute the ball effectively has been crucial to Liverpool’s midfield stability.
20. Ashley Young (Winger to Full-Back)
Initially a winger, Young was converted into a full-back during his tenure at Manchester United. This transition extended his career at the top level, and he adapted well to the defensive responsibilities, contributing both defensively and offensively.
