Football has always had its fair share of heroes and villains. While some players are adored for their skills and sportsmanship, others have built a reputation for controversy, aggression, and unsportsmanlike behavior. Whether it’s reckless tackles, diving, trash talk, or off-field scandals, these players have angered fans, opponents, and even their own teammates.
We’ve taken a closer look at the most hated footballers in history and ranked them based on their controversies, antics, and reputation.
13. Marco Materazzi
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A solid defender, but also one of the sport’s most infamous provocateurs. Materazzi is best remembered for his role in Zinedine Zidane’s red card during the 2006 World Cup final, where his trash talk led to Zidane headbutting him. Throughout his career, he was known for pushing opponents to their limits and playing mind games on the pitch.
Costa was the definition of a street fighter on the pitch—aggressive, ruthless, and always looking for a fight. His constant clashes with defenders, frequent diving, and knack for winding up opponents made him one of the most despised players in both La Liga and the Premier League. Whether at Chelsea or Atlético Madrid, Costa played with an attitude that made him impossible to ignore.
One of the most brutal defenders of the modern era, Pepe was infamous for his reckless tackles and violent outbursts. His most notorious moment came in 2009 when he repeatedly kicked a Getafe player while he was on the ground. Despite being a world-class defender, his excessive aggression made him one of football’s biggest villains.
10. Diego Maradona
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One of the greatest players of all time, but also one of the most controversial. His infamous “Hand of God” goal against England in the 1986 World Cup left an entire nation furious. Maradona was also known for his fiery personality, frequent clashes with the media, and off-field scandals, making him a divisive figure in football history.
9. Emmanuel Adebayor
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Few players have managed to anger as many fanbases as Adebayor. His notorious goal celebration for Manchester City, running the length of the pitch to taunt Arsenal fans, cemented his villain status. Additionally, his work ethic and attitude were often criticized, with accusations of laziness and dressing room disputes following him throughout his career.
8. Kevin Muscat
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Possibly the dirtiest footballer to ever play, Muscat was feared for his brutal challenges and reckless tackles. He once delivered a leg-breaking challenge in the Australian league that earned him an eight-match ban. His violent reputation meant that even his own teammates were cautious around him.
A serial winner, but also a master of the dark arts. Ramos built a reputation for tactical fouls, diving, and provoking opponents. His infamous challenge on Mohamed Salah in the 2018 Champions League final, which resulted in Salah’s injury, turned him into one of the most hated figures in football—especially among Liverpool fans.
6. Neymar
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One of the most naturally gifted players in recent history, but also one of the most frustrating. Neymar’s reputation for diving, over-exaggerating fouls, and theatrics has overshadowed his undeniable talent. His move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 further angered fans, who accused him of prioritizing money over competition.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo
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Despite being one of football’s greatest players, Ronaldo’s arrogance and self-obsession have made him widely disliked. His on-field tantrums, refusal to accept defeat graciously, and insistence on taking every free kick—regardless of form—have made him a divisive figure. Even at 39, he continued to demand special treatment, frustrating both fans and teammates.
4. John Terry
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A Chelsea legend, but one whose off-field scandals made him a widely hated figure. Accused of racism towards Anton Ferdinand and rumored to have had an affair with teammate Wayne Bridge’s partner, Terry’s personal life overshadowed his achievements. His brash personality and arrogance made him despised by opposition fans.
Barton was a constant source of controversy, both on and off the pitch. From physically attacking teammates to deliberately injuring opponents, he was a walking headline. His most infamous moment came in 2012 when he elbowed Carlos Tevez, kicked Sergio Agüero, and attempted to fight the entire Manchester City team before being sent off.
2. Luis Suárez
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One of the most talented strikers of his generation, but also one of the most controversial. Suárez has been involved in three separate biting incidents, was accused of racially abusing Patrice Evra, and frequently dived to win penalties. His win-at-all-costs mentality made him a nightmare for defenders but an easy player to hate for everyone else.
1. El Hadji Diouf
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Diouf tops the list as one of football’s biggest villains. He was despised for his disrespectful behavior, spitting at opponents and even fans. Liverpool legends Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher openly called him a disgrace, and even his own managers had little good to say about him. The final straw? Mocking an injured player with a broken leg.
