Below are the 5 most prominent footballers who went from riches to rags:
1. David James
Finishing his footballing career in the depths of Iceland may not have been the smartest move, but former Liverpool goalkeeper David James saw his illustrious career literally stop short. Having played both for Portsmouth and appearing at the FIFA 2010 World Cup for England, James was a major figure in the game. He played for more than two decades and also pulled on the jersey for Aston Villa, West Ham United and Manchester City. His career earnings saw him bring in more than $30 million which saw him strut his stuff as a model for fashion label Armani. In 2005, James needed the funds in order to settle a costly divorce and later filed for insolvency this year.
2. John Arne Riise
At the peak of his powers, former left back John Arne Riise was bombing down the channels for Liverpool not to mention Fulham. Earning in excess of $80,000 a week, his sweet left foot conjured up a wide variety of crosses and his free kicks were a trademark. However, this did not stop the former Merseysider from ending up in court. This was due to an unpaid debt of around $150,000. Furthermore, he was involved in a bitter legal wrangle with his agent at the time, Einar Baardsen over a suspected $5 million fraud.
3. Celestine Babayaro
Once on $45,000 a week, former marauding Newcastle United and Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro was more used to terrorising players than high courts. He made more than 60 appearances for the Toon Army and appeared for the Blues on several occasions. However this did not stop the Nigerian international from a court order being made in Croydon. Despite being signed by Newcastle for $2.5 million, Babayaro racked up crippling debt and was later released in 2007.
4. Eric Djemba-Djemba
Another ex-Manchester United man makes it onto the list and this time it is former midfield ace Eric Djemba-Djemba. With career earnings in the region of $6 million, the Red Devil and Aston Villa player was declared bankrupt over outstanding debts he owed. The Cameroon international managed to break into the United team but was soon sent on his way after a string of unsuccessful performances. After some time in the footballing wilderness, Djemba-Djemba ended up this year at lowly Scottish side St. Mirren.
5. Brad Friedel
Iconic American goalkeeper Brad Friedel was one of the best no.1’s around, especially in his home nation. With successful spells at both Aston Villa, as well as Tottenham the former US no.1 was earning a fair wedge between the sticks. Yet, in 2011, Friedel had actually been declared completely bankrupt back in the United States. His football academy based in Lorain, Ohio was spiralling debts of around $7 million. In fact, most were not willing to subscribe thanks to its hefty $50,000 annual subscription which led to the banks repossessing his home.
