The 10 Most Hated Footballers in History – Ranked

June 17, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

While many footballers are admired and idolized, a select few have left a very different impression. Whether through reckless challenges, outrageous behavior, or off-field scandals, these players became villains in the eyes of fans across the globe.

10. Diego Maradona

One of the most gifted players the sport has ever seen, Diego Maradona was also one of the most divisive. His infamous "Hand of God" goal against England in the 1986 World Cup still enrages many English supporters. Maradona also clashed with media, fans, and officials throughout his career, often letting his temper get the best of him.

9. Emmanuel Adebayor

Adebayor managed to anger almost every fanbase he played for. His infamous full-pitch run to celebrate in front of Arsenal fans after scoring for Manchester City is one of the Premier League’s most provocative moments. Known for his poor attitude and dressing-room conflicts, even his own fans turned against him.

8. Kevin Muscat

Muscat earned a fearsome reputation as one of the dirtiest players in football history. From leg-breaking tackles to violent outbursts, his on-field brutality was relentless. He once received an eight-match ban for a horrific challenge in Australia and was banned from Old Firm derbies due to his aggression.

7. Sergio Ramos

A Real Madrid icon but loathed elsewhere, Ramos thrived on pushing the limits. His aggressive tackles and mind games earned him many enemies, none more so than after his rough challenge on Mohamed Salah in the 2018 Champions League final. Ramos also had a reputation for diving and time-wasting.

6. Neymar

Despite his dazzling skills, Neymar has often been accused of diving and theatrical exaggeration. Critics have slammed his lack of work ethic and attitude, especially during his time at PSG. His big-money move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 further fueled the hate, with many calling it a pure cash grab.

5. Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo is undoubtedly one of the greatest ever, but also one of the most polarizing. His self-confidence, seen by many as arrogance, rubbed opponents and fans the wrong way. His selfishness on the pitch—especially at Euro 2024 where he underperformed but still demanded center stage—turned admiration into resentment.

4. John Terry

Terry's legacy is tainted by off-field controversies, including racism allegations and a scandal involving a teammate's partner. Though adored by Chelsea fans, many others saw him as arrogant and morally questionable. His actions often overshadowed his defensive prowess and leadership on the pitch.

3. Joey Barton

Barton’s career was marked by violence and chaos, both on and off the field. He attacked a teammate at Manchester City, punched an opponent during a match, and was involved in multiple red-card incidents. His frequent meltdowns and lack of control made him one of English football’s most despised figures.

2. Luis Suárez

Luis Suarez — Foto: Visionhaus/Getty Images

Suárez is a world-class striker, but his behavior made him infamous. He was banned for biting opponents not once, but three times, and faced racism allegations during his time at Liverpool. His combination of brilliance and recklessness made him one of the most controversial players of his generation.

1. El Hadji Diouf

Topping the list is El Hadji Diouf, who was universally disliked by fans, teammates, and even managers. Known for spitting at fans and opponents, mocking injured players, and disrespecting teammates, Diouf's reputation as a disgrace to football is widely shared. Even Liverpool legends have publicly condemned him.