5 world-class footballers who are well educated

Education is important. Be it materialistic, or something as simple as playing football, one must have the right knowledge in order to execute a plan or simply decide on one. In the world of football not many coaches, clubs or managers really care about what a footballer has studied in school or in college, as the only thing that really matters is the consistent use of the talent that the world needs to see on the pitch.

A game is built by using the knowledge of this particular sport and probably nothing else, it is extremely important that a footballer is well aware of what he/she is doing.

But there are a few in this particular sport, who have done something that nobody must've considered. As mentioned earlier, the importance of a good education is unparalleled. Some of these world-class potentials that we all grew up watching, that have won our hearts on the pitch, have done something similar by earning a degree from a university.

A shocker indeed, these 5 extremely talented football players, and legends of the game, of course, have had their academics before they had football. Some of them will come as a surprise to all of us, as you'd never expect a box to box midfielder to have a degree in Business Management. The greatest question that pops up in our minds, "when did they get the time to complete their studies?" Well, for some, that time came after retirement, or before they made their breakthrough.

These are our 5 picks for some of the most academically qualified football players that we have today.

#5 Andrey Arshavin - FC Kairat

A degree in fashion designing?

The Gunners fans remember this particular Russian forward as being one of the most talented and recognizable footballers way back in the mid-2000s. A maestro on the pitch, Arshavin's days as an Arsenal player didn't quite get him the recognition at world level. His disastrous campaigns with Arsene Wenger forced the former Gunners manager to sell him. Nevertheless, the 37-year-old left for Zenit St. Petersburg in 2013, and currently plays in Kazakhstan for FC Kairat.

But the most surprising element is the fact that Arshavin apparently holds a degree in fashion designing, and a Masters Degree at that. In addition, his work is well noted all over Russia, and he is considered one of the most famous designers in his country.

#4 Giorgio Chiellini - Juventus

Chiellini receiving his Master's degree from the University of Turin

Considered as one of the best defenders in the world, Chiellini's expertise as a world-class center back has earned him several accolades both at club and national level. Forming an alliance with his fellow center back Leonardo Bonucci, the Juve defenders have had a dominating display of defensive prowess. His work rate as a defender has proven to be an extremely important element for his team.

However, the Italian international has completed a Laurea (bachelor's degree) in economics and commerce at the University of Turin in July 2010, and later gaining a Master's degree in the same course in July 2017.

#3 Juan Mata - Manchester United

Mata has studied Sports Science back in Madrid

An extremely underrated forward and an occasional number 10, the Spanish menace has had a very tough time with his current Manchester United side. His major breakthrough was when he joined Chelsea back in 2011, winning the UEFA Champion's League in his debut season and playing a very important role for the blues. His short stature accentuates his dribbling and playmaking abilities.

However, the Manchester United playmaker’s abilities stretch beyond the pitch, as the 30-year-old has actually taken up a degree in Sports Science and Finance at the University Camilo Jose Cela in Madrid.

#2 Edwin van der Sar

The legendary goalkeeper holds a Bachelor's degree in International Sports Management

Often regarded as being one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation, and by many as the greatest of all time, the former Dutch International is one of the most decorated and celebrated goalkeepers in the world with 27 major trophies. Most famously known for his stint with Manchester United, van der Sar's abilities have inspired many goalkeepers to pick up the gloves and start playing in his particular position.

Albeit, that did not stop him from acquiring higher certificates. Van der Sar, although retired, is currently the Marketing Director of Ajax, and he has also on the verge of acquiring his Master's Degree in International Sports Management as he holds a Bachelor's degree in the same course.

#1 Frank Lampard

The Derby County manager holds a degree in Latin

Lampard has spent 13 years playing for Chelsea and has been the all-time top scorer for the Blues with 211 goals in all competitions. Given the fact that he is easily one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, his charisma and ability are totally unparalleled. A maestro of a playmaker and an intelligent football player, his patience and sustainability on the pitch is what he is truly known for.

Surprisingly his football achievements aside, Lampard while blasting the goal nets, was simultaneously acquiring a Latin course, and successfully received a degree by scoring an A in the subject.

Source: Pulse