The Kings of Controversy: 20 Footballers Who Stirred the Game Since 2000

January 21, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Football is a game of passion, talent, and often controversy. Over the years, several players have been labeled as “arrogant,” whether due to their flamboyant personalities, on-field antics, or off-field controversies. Here’s a look a our top 20 over the most arrogant football players since 2000.

20. Emmanuel Adebayor

Adebayor’s infamous celebration running the length of the pitch to taunt Arsenal fans after scoring against his former club remains one of the most controversial moments in Premier League history. His actions on and off the pitch often reflected a player unafraid to stoke the flames of rivalry.

19. Troy Deeney

Best known for his time at Watford, Deeney has courted controversy for his outspoken nature. His comments about being better than Harry Kane and his refusal to apologize for earlier remarks about Arsenal have added to his reputation as a player unafraid to ruffle feathers. Additionally, his public criticism of players during his brief managerial stint at Forest Green Rovers further solidified his image as brash and unapologetically blunt.

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18. John Terry

A leader on the pitch but a magnet for controversy off it, Terry’s personal scandals overshadowed his otherwise illustrious career. His confident demeanor often came across as arrogance, particularly to rival fans.

17. Eden Hazard

While Hazard’s skill is undeniable, his laid-back approach and admitted lack of discipline during his Real Madrid tenure have drawn criticism. His attitude, paired with inconsistent performances, has frustrated fans who expected more.

16. Carlos Tévez

Tévez made headlines for refusing to come off the bench during a Champions League game with Manchester City. His clashes with management and perceived lack of loyalty to clubs painted him as a difficult, albeit talented, player.

15. Marco Materazzi

Materazzi will forever be remembered for provoking Zinedine Zidane in the 2006 World Cup final. Known for his ability to get under opponents’ skin, Materazzi’s behavior often blurred the line between gamesmanship and arrogance.

14. Romelu Lukaku

Lukaku’s public comments about his dissatisfaction at certain clubs and his desire for a bigger stage have drawn criticism. While his honesty is refreshing to some, others see it as unprofessional and self-centered.

13. Adriano

Once seen as the heir to Ronaldo Nazário, Adriano’s career was marred by unfulfilled potential. His off-field distractions and perceived lack of dedication gave him an air of arrogance, despite the raw talent he displayed early on.

12. Paul Pogba

From his flashy haircuts to his choreographed celebrations, Pogba exudes personality. While many appreciate his confidence and charisma, others view him as more focused on his brand than on consistent performances, which has sparked debates throughout his career.

11. Robinho

Hyped as the next Pele, Robinho’s career failed to live up to expectations. His tendency to prioritize flair over effectiveness and his off-field issues created an image of a player more focused on himself than his team, leading to accusations of arrogance.

10. Mesut Özil

Özil’s seemingly nonchalant playing style has drawn criticism throughout his career. Fans and analysts alike have questioned his commitment and work ethic, labeling him as aloof or arrogant, despite his undeniable creativity and skill.

9. Sergio Ramos

A defensive powerhouse with a penchant for drama, Ramos is no stranger to controversy. His numerous red cards, hard fouls, and clashes with opponents have made him both a hero to Real Madrid fans and a villain to others. His self-assured demeanor often adds to the divisive narrative.

8. Ashley Cole

Dubbed “Cashley Cole” after his controversial move to Chelsea, Cole’s decision to leave Arsenal for a bigger payday angered fans. His autobiography and candid remarks about his career choices only fueled perceptions of him as self-serving and detached.

7. Nicklas Bendtner

Bendtner once declared himself among the world’s best strikers, a claim that baffled fans and pundits alike. His off-field escapades, including a famous incident involving designer underwear, further solidified his reputation as overly confident, despite not always delivering on the pitch.

6. Joey Barton

Barton has built a career as football’s enfant terrible. Known for his fiery temper, social media rants, and altercations on and off the pitch, he often seems to court controversy. While his outspoken nature has fans, many see his behavior as a distraction from his abilities.

5. Diego Costa

The master of provocation, Costa’s aggressive playing style and confrontational attitude have earned him a bad-boy reputation. He thrives on unsettling defenders with mind games and physicality, often walking a fine line between competitiveness and outright hostility.

4. Neymar Jr.

Known for his flair and theatrics, Neymar often divides opinion. His dramatic reactions to fouls and occasional showboating have led to accusations of arrogance. Despite his talent, many believe his focus on personal branding detracts from his contribution to the team, sparking debates about his maturity.

3. Mario Balotelli

“Why always me?” Mario’s infamous slogan perfectly encapsulates his career. From setting off fireworks in his bathroom to a history of confrontations with coaches and teammates, Balotelli has always attracted attention. His undeniable talent has been overshadowed by his unpredictable behavior, making him a lightning rod for controversy.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo’s relentless drive for perfection has often been misinterpreted as arrogance. His goal celebrations, physical posturing, and occasional frustration with teammates have earned him criticism. Yet, his consistency and success have cemented him as one of the greatest, even if his confidence can sometimes appear overbearing.

1. Zlatan Ibrahimović

The king of self-confidence, Zlatan is famous for quotes like, “I can’t help but laugh at how perfect I am.” His swagger, combined with his incredible skills, has made him a polarizing figure. Fans admire his confidence, while critics see it as arrogance. Whether it’s a kung-fu goal or a bold statement, Zlatan thrives on being unapologetically himself.