Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, Joey Barton

10 Most Hated Players in Football History [Ranked]

September 17, 2025 Kris Isaksen

While footballers are often idolized by fans and expected to be role models, some have left behind legacies of controversy, arrogance, or outright violence. From infamous tackles to off-field scandals, these ten players have earned the ire of fans, rivals, and even their own teammates. Here are the most hated footballers of all time—starting from #10 and working our way to the most reviled.

10. Diego Maradona – The Icon Who Crossed the Line

Diego Maradona is remembered as one of the greatest ever, but also one of the most controversial. His "Hand of God" goal against England in 1986 made him a hero in Argentina and a villain in Britain, a stain that never faded for many fans. Off the pitch, he often clashed with the press and supporters, frequently losing his temper rather than acting like a professional.

9. Emmanuel Adebayor – Celebrating Controversy

Emmanuel Adebayor became infamous for taunting Arsenal fans after scoring for Manchester City, sprinting the length of the pitch to rub it in. Later, he was criticised for laziness and poor attitude during spells at Tottenham and Crystal Palace. His public fallouts with teammates and coaches only added to his reputation as a divisive figure.

8. Kevin Muscat – The Butcher of the Pitch

Known as one of the dirtiest players in football, Kevin Muscat built a legacy on violent tackles and a lack of remorse. From breaking Adrian Zahra’s leg to headbutting a goalkeeper in a tunnel, his on-pitch behaviour was brutal and often dangerous. He was even banned from Old Firm derbies during his time at Rangers due to his violent tendencies.

7. Sergio Ramos – Master of the Dark Arts

Sergio Ramos was loved by Madridistas but hated by many others for his aggressive, cynical style of play. He gained notoriety for diving, time-wasting, and foul play, including the infamous tackle that injured Mohamed Salah in the 2018 Champions League final. While talented, his willingness to bend the rules made him one of football’s top villains.

6. Neymar – Skill Meets Theatrics

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Neymar’s dazzling footwork often took a backseat to his diving and over-the-top reactions. Fans grew tired of his play-acting, and critics questioned his dedication, especially during inconsistent performances at PSG. His high-profile move to Al Hilal in 2023 was seen as a money grab, and his short-lived spell in Saudi Arabia only hurt his image further.

5. Cristiano Ronaldo – Divisive Greatness

Cristiano Ronaldo is adored by millions but equally disliked for his perceived arrogance and selfishness. In Euro 2024, despite declining form, he insisted on taking every free-kick and averaged five shots per game—yet failed to score. His refusal to accept a reduced role and visible frustration during defeats have made him a polarising figure.

4. John Terry – A Leader Stained by Scandal

John Terry’s career was packed with trophies, but his personal scandals often stole the spotlight. Accused of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand and rumoured to have had an affair with teammate Wayne Bridge’s partner, Terry’s actions fractured dressing rooms and lost him respect. Even fans outside Chelsea found it hard to forgive or forget.

3. Joey Barton – Always in Trouble

Joey Barton seemed to attract chaos wherever he went, with a long history of fights, red cards, and legal issues. From attacking teammate Ousmane Dabo to violent outbursts against Blackburn and Man City players, Barton was often more of a liability than an asset. His aggressive nature made him one of football’s most disliked personalities.

2. Luis Suárez – Talented but Toxic

Luis Suárez combined genius on the ball with moments of pure madness. While dazzling for Liverpool and Barcelona, he also bit opponents, racially abused Patrice Evra, and regularly dived or sparked fights. With three known biting incidents, Suárez became synonymous with unsportsmanlike behavior despite his elite talent.

1. El Hadji Diouf – Universally Reviled

El Hadji Diouf tops the list as perhaps the most universally hated player in football. Known for spitting at fans and opponents, mocking injured players, and clashing with teammates, Diouf burned bridges at every club. When legends like Gerrard and Carragher call you a disgrace, and a manager says you're "lower than a sewer rat," there's no question you've earned your spot at the top.