5 world-class players who ended up at surprising clubs

Eric Djemba-Djemba
Eric Djemba-Djemba

#3 Legendary goalkeeper helps out boyhood club

Edwin van der Sar returned to the club where he played his youth team football
Edwin van der Sar returned to the club where he played his youth team football

Edwin van der Sar may be one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. Having experienced enormous success with Ajax and Manchester United, as well as the Dutch national team, Van der Sar was, without doubt, a man blessed with enormous ability.

When Dutch fourth tier side VV Noordwijk's goalkeeper suffered an injury in 2016, they were delighted when van der Sar, who had formerly been with the club as a youth player, agreed to fill in for "one last game", five years after retiring from professional football. The 46-year-old was in top form, saving a penalty and helping Noordwijk to a 1-1 draw.

#2 Juventus star becomes non-league side's player-manager

Davids joined Barnet as player-manager
Davids joined Barnet as player-manager

Edgar Davids made a name for himself with the likes of Ajax, Juventus and Barcelona, becoming one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.

And so, in October 2012 when Davids signed an agreement to become player-manager at struggling League 2 club Barnet, there was a minor media sensation. The charismatic Dutchman didn't disappoint, fielding himself at the heart of midfield and wearing the number 1 shirt.

Despite Davids's best efforts, Barnet were relegated from the Football League. Still, the midfield maestro stuck around, playing for the South London club in the fifth tier of English football until January 2014.

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