Photos of 11 famous footballers when they were young

From being innocent young achievers to global icons, these footballers have come a long way, and they hardly look the same with age, fame and money taking a toll on them over the years. It is highly possible that it would hard for you or me or anyone to recognise them from their old photos.In this slideshow, we dig up some very old archived photos of footballers when they were young:

#1 Zlatan Ibrahimovic

From growing up in the mean streets of Sweden to stealing bikes so as to feed his young, adrenaline rush to go onto becoming one of the best footballers of this generation, Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s journey to success has been a long one indeed.

Also, notice the poster on the wall and book on his idol – the one and only Ronaldo!

#2 Cristiano Ronaldo

The Ballon d’Or winner was born in a poverty-struck family, but it wasn’t long until he made a name for himself, eventually becoming one of the greatest players of our generation.

#3 Juan Mata

Juan Mata was born in the town of Ocón de Villafranca, Burgos, starting his football career at Real Oviedo, then moving onto Real Madrid, Valencia, Chelsea and Manchester United.

#4 Lionel Messi

If it wasn’t for Barcelona, Lionel Messi’s career would have perhaps turned out different. But then again, if it wasn’t for Messi, the team probably wouldn’t have achieved the same heights that they did.

#5 Jack Wilshere

One of many highly rated English midfielders, Jack Wilshere was born as a natural leader, captaining his high school team to several championship wins. He became one of Arsenal’s most prominent players at a young age and is definitely a future captain in the making.

#6 Frank Lampard

Chelsea’s all-time leading goalscorer Frank Lampard began his career at West Ham United – his father, Frank Lampard Sr's former club. Two decades later, he boasts three Premier League titles, one Champions League title, and over 100 appearances for England before he eventually retired.

#7 Ryan Giggs

From spending time by playing football in his grandparents’ garden to becoming Manchester United’s most capped player, Ryan Giggs’s nearly-three-decade-long career has seen him win almost every major trophy that a Premier League club could possibly win.

#8 Gerard Pique

The Barcelona defender’s attacking traits is something that he had inherited from his playing time as a defensive midfielder. Gerard Pique has now come a lot far down the road now and he has even started a family with pop star Shakira.

#9 Ronaldinho

Born in the city of Porto Alegre, Ronaldinho’s magical chemistry with the ball is known to almost every other supporter. He was 8 years old when he started showcasing his brilliance in the game.

#10 Steven Gerrard

Steven Gerrard started out young, playing for his local club Whiston Juniors where he was noticed by Liverpool scouts. He eventually joined the Liverpool Academy at the age of nine, and the rest is just history.

#11 Francesco Totti

Often referred to as Il Bimbo d'Oro, or The Golden Boy, Francesco Totti is the heart and King of Roma and the second-highest all-time scorer in Serie A history.