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Over the years, there have been players who dropped off the radar after a successful spell in top-flight football. And while fans globally might have moved on, celebrating the achievements of newer stars, some of the big names of yesteryear continue to ply their trade elsewhere.
Here's a look at five such players who you wouldn't believe are still playing:
#5 Javier Pastore
Once a prominent name at PSG, Javier Pastore has found himself at a Spanish club who are currently struggling to survive in La Liga. The 32-year-old Argentinian had a few short spells in his hometown before joining Italian club Palermo in 2009.
One of the most talented and hard-working midfielders, Pastore drew comparisons with legends like Kaka and Zinedine Zidane and was signed by PSG in 2011. His work ethic along with his creativity and skills gave him the option to play in any position other than in defense. Starring at the heart of the midfield, he helped the club win many accolades.
With 269 appearances in France, Pastore left for AS Roma after his role at PSG began to diminish. However, the move also saw an overall decline in his fortunes. The midfielder struggled at Roma and joined Elche at the start of the 2021-22 season.
#4 Martin Skrtel
One of the toughest players in the Premier League, Martin Skrtel was a spectacular defender during his time at Liverpool. However, his career thereon didn't take off the way he'd have wished.
The Slovakian international joined the English giants in 2008 after a successful spell with Zenit. His move was hailed by then manager Rafael Benitez, who considered the defender a perfect fit - aggressive, quick and aerially present.
His approach earned him a regular spot in Benitez's side and he turned out 320 times in eight years, also winning the EFL Cup. However, he could not fit into Jurgen Klopp's plans, and as a result left for Fenerbahce in 2016. After changing two more clubs, the 36-year-old has returned to his homeland, joining Spartak Trnava for the 2021-22 season.
#3 Ricardo Quaresma
The Portuguese's playing style was as elegant as his name. Famous for his bag of tricks, Ricardo Quaresma was a complete package. He also contributed to winning Portugal's first major international title when he replaced an injured Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2016 UEFA European Championship final.
However, he could never achieve his potential due to his inconsistency. Over a 20-year career, Quaresma has played for nine different clubs, including Barcelona, Inter Milan and Chelsea.
The 38-year-old winger has become a more reliable and disciplined player in recent years and currently plays for Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes.
#2 John Obi Mikel
Both Manchester United and Chelsea claimed to have reached an agreement to sign John Obi Mikel from Lyn Fotball. The Nigerian defensive midfielder went on to become a club legend with Chelsea during a career that spanned 11 seasons, starting in 2006. Along with winning many domestic trophies, he also contributed to the club's maiden Champions League triumph in 2012.
Since 2017, he has moved to five different clubs, the last being Kuwait FC, where his contract was terminated in November 2021, four months after he joined them.
#1 Rafinha
A gentle reminder to those who are confused right now. Yes, there are two Rafinhas from Brazil and no, this is not the one who is playing for PSG. The one we are talking about here moved to Germany after signing with Schalke 04 in 2005. The right-back then moved to Genoa, but it only lasted a year as the club failed to pay his fees in the stipulated time frame.
Rafinha signed with Bayern Munich in 2011. Despite having a top player like Philipp Lahm in that position, Rafinha earned enough opportunities to play. Eight years and 18 trophies later, he parted ways with the German giants, which was also thought to be the end of his professional journey.
However, the 36-year-old Brazilian joined Flamengo in 2019, followed by a spell with Olympiacos. He currently plays for Brazilian side Gremio, with whom he is contracted until the end of 2021.
