Top 25 Most Improved Players (Career Development) – Ranked
Not every footballer starts at the top. Some rise from obscurity, rejection, or humble beginnings to become stars on the biggest stages. This list highlights 25 players whose careers took remarkable turns — proof that with hard work and persistence, anything is possible in football.
25. Joško Gvardiol
Started as a relatively unknown teenager at Dinamo Zagreb. Developed rapidly at RB Leipzig and is now one of the best young defenders in the world with Manchester City.
24. Kalidou Koulibaly
Began in the French lower leagues and took time to mature at Genk. At Napoli, he evolved into a dominant center-back, eventually moving to Chelsea and winning AFCON with Senegal.
23. Emiliano Martínez
Spent over a decade as a backup at Arsenal. His career exploded after joining Aston Villa, culminating in Copa América and World Cup triumphs with Argentina.
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22. Jordan Henderson
Often criticized early in his Liverpool career, he grew into a respected captain and leader, guiding the team to Premier League and Champions League titles.
21. Roberto Firmino
Signed by Hoffenheim from Brazil's second tier, he rose to become a central figure in Liverpool’s front line, redefining the modern false nine role.
20. Marcos Alonso
From unremarkable stints at Bolton and Sunderland to starring for Chelsea as a goal-scoring wing-back in a title-winning side.
19. Ramires
Unpolished during his time in Brazil, he became a Champions League hero for Chelsea, known for his work rate and iconic chip vs Barcelona.
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18. Joselu
Considered surplus at several clubs, including Real Madrid and Newcastle. Reinvented himself in Spain and returned to Madrid, scoring key goals in the Champions League semifinal.
17. Gabriel Martinelli
Played in Brazil’s lower divisions before joining Arsenal. Transformed into a rapid, energetic forward and Brazilian international before age 22.
16. Victor Osimhen
Was overlooked at Wolfsburg and battled adversity in Belgium. Exploded in France and led Napoli to a historic Serie A title.
15. Ángel Di María
Grew up in a poor Argentine neighborhood, fought for recognition in Europe, and went on to win league titles in four countries and play key roles in Argentina’s international successes.
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14. Leon Goretzka
Once criticized for being too lightweight. Transformed his physique and game at Bayern Munich, becoming a powerhouse in midfield for club and country.
13. Edin Džeko
Started with modest Bosnian clubs and was seen as awkward early on. Became a prolific scorer in Germany, England, and Italy with key goals on every stage.
12. Bruno Fernandes
From the lower tiers in Italy to a creative force at Sporting and then Manchester United. Elevated himself into one of the Premier League’s most impactful midfielders.
11. Ivan Perišić
Largely unknown in his early years, Perišić became a tireless winger and key player for Inter, Bayern Munich, and the Croatian national team.
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10. Theo Hernández
Struggled for minutes at Real Madrid and was written off. Rejuvenated at AC Milan, where he became one of the best attacking full-backs in the game.
9. Didier Drogba
Didn’t turn professional until his early 20s. Rose rapidly to become a Chelsea icon and one of the most clutch strikers in modern football.
8. Alphonso Davies
Born in a refugee camp and started his career in MLS. Developed into a world-class left-back at Bayern Munich before turning 20.
7. N’Golo Kanté
Was playing in the French third division at age 21. In just a few years, he won the Premier League, Champions League, and World Cup, becoming a global fan favorite.
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6. Mohamed Salah
Struggled for playing time at Chelsea and had to restart in Serie A. Transformed into a goal machine and Champions League winner with Liverpool.
5. Keylor Navas
Went from Costa Rica’s local league to becoming Real Madrid’s Champions League-winning goalkeeper, proving doubters wrong with elite-level shot-stopping.
4. Antonio Valencia
A winger from Ecuador’s Serie A who became a reliable full-back and captain at Manchester United, adapting his game with quiet determination.
3. Riyad Mahrez
Signed by Leicester from Ligue 2 with little fanfare. Played a huge role in their miraculous title win and later starred for Manchester City in domestic dominance.
2. Luka Modrić
Rejected in his youth and told he was too weak. Overcame the odds to win the Ballon d'Or and five Champions League titles, becoming a midfield maestro for Real Madrid.
1. Jamie Vardy
The ultimate rags-to-riches story. Played non-league football into his mid-20s, then led Leicester City to a Premier League title and played for England. A story for the ages.
