Football has always had its share of controversy and colorful characters, but some players take it to another level. Here, we explore the top 10 “bad boys” of world football, known as much for their off-field antics and on-field misdemeanors as for their skills with the ball.
10. Joey Barton
Joey Barton’s career reads like a crime novel. The English midfielder has a long list of offenses, including multiple red cards, inciting brawls, extinguishing a lit cigarette in a teammate’s eye, and breaking a pedestrian’s leg with reckless driving. He’s also been charged with assault and once punched an opponent in the ribs. Barton currently plays in Marseille, having been effectively exiled from British football. His controversial behavior continued there, most infamously when he referred to Brazilian defender Thiago Silva as an “overweight ladyboy” on Twitter.
9. Felipe Melo
Known for his aggressive playing style, Brazilian midfielder Felipe Melo has earned the nickname “Pitbull” for his tenacity and bite on the field. His infamous World Cup red card for stomping on Arjen Robben and another for kicking Massimo Paci in the face during a Serie A match are just a few highlights of his temper-fueled career.
8. Mario Balotelli
Italian striker Mario Balotelli is notorious for his unpredictable behavior. He has set off fireworks in his bathroom, thrown darts at youth players, crashed press conferences, and even tried to enter a women’s prison out of curiosity. Balotelli’s antics often overshadow his talent, making him a constant figure of controversy in football.
7. El Hadji Diouf
El Hadji Diouf is one of the most despised players in modern football. The Senegalese forward has been involved in numerous incidents, including spitting at fans and players, assault charges, and breaking an opponent’s leg only to berate him afterward. Diouf’s penchant for controversy is well-documented, and he once notoriously criticized former teammate Steven Gerrard, claiming “everyone hates him.”
6. Nigel De Jong
Nigel De Jong’s infamous flying kick on Xabi Alonso during the 2010 World Cup final is often cited as one of the worst tackles in the tournament’s history. De Jong, known for his aggressive style, has also been caught stamping on an opponent’s hand. His reputation as a hard tackler who often causes serious injury precedes him.
5. Luis Suarez
Luis Suarez is a player you either love or hate. His career has been marred by several high-profile incidents, including biting an opponent while playing for Ajax, accusations of diving, and a blatant handball in a World Cup quarterfinal. His most controversial moment came when he was accused of racially abusing Patrice Evra, leading to a significant ban and widespread condemnation.
4. Carlos Tevez
Carlos Tevez’s relationship with Manchester City was tumultuous, to say the least. The Argentine forward twice demanded transfers, fell out with manager Roberto Mancini, and went AWOL in protest of not being sold. He further courted controversy by holding up a “RIP Fergie” banner during City’s title celebrations, indicating his disregard for decorum and professionalism.
3. Marlon King
Marlon King’s football career is overshadowed by his criminal record. The Birmingham City striker has been involved in a string of offenses, including headbutting a teammate, theft, fraud, drink driving, and multiple assaults on women. King’s violent behavior has often landed him in trouble, making him one of football’s most notorious figures.
2. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Zlatan Ibrahimovic may deny being a bad boy, but his actions speak otherwise. The Swedish forward has had numerous altercations with teammates, opponents, and managers. He was sent home from a World Cup qualifier for breaking curfew and has openly criticized former boss Pep Guardiola in his autobiography. While Zlatan’s brand of bad behavior is often more theatrical, it’s undeniable he’s one of football’s most controversial characters.
1. John Terry
John Terry’s off-field behavior has frequently brought shame to the sport. The former Chelsea captain has been involved in several scandals, including mocking Americans after the 9/11 attacks, public urination, and multiple accusations of racial abuse. His most infamous indiscretion was an affair with the mother of former teammate Wayne Bridge’s child. Terry’s personal life has often provided tabloid fodder, overshadowing his achievements on the pitch.
