The stars of world football and cinema meet, and the athletes trade in their stadium lights for movie sets. Whether it’s a self-parody or a high-energy action moment, the legends have left some absolutely iconic moments for the big screen. In this list of 10 legendary soccer players, there are some who made unforgettable movie appearances.
Pelé in Escape to Victory
The Brazilian icon was one of the stars of this classic wartime sports drama that featured Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone. Pelé’s performance as a POW is electrifying and climactic as he unleashes a bicycle kick that is one of the most iconic moments in cinematic football history.
David Beckham appeared in King Arthur
With his close friend Guy Ritchie guiding the way, David Beckham took on a toughened-up role as guard Trigger. His acting is extremely strong, particularly in the climactic sword-in-the-stone scene, for which he wears a heavy facial prosthesis.
Zinedine Zidane in Asterix at the Olympic Games
Then came the hugely photogenic French midfielder Zinedine Zidane, in a hilariously stylised cameo appearance in this fantasy comedy. He’s dressed in ancient Egyptian fashion, complete with some dramatic eyeliner, and is demonstrating his legendary ball-playing skills with the ancient leather ball – and a brilliant comedic touch.
Zlatan Ibrahimović as Asterix & Obelix
As befitting his larger-than-life real-life persona, Zlatan Ibrahimović made a grand screen appearance as the indomitable, arrogant Roman centurion, Oneofus. His flying martial powers annihilate all the armies of rushing attacks with his own strength.
Neymar Jr. in xXx: Return of Xander Cage
The Brazilian superstar, meanwhile, started this action blockbuster with a memorable self-parody with Samuel L. Jackson. Suddenly, the recruitment dinner is interrupted by a robbery at a restaurant, where Neymar immediately responds and uses a metal dispenser for the napkins like a soccer ball to blow out the armed robber.
Ally McCoist in A Shot at Glory
With Robert Duvall, the iconic Scottish striker played a full-fledged lead role in this inspiring sports drama. He delivers a very authentic performance, as the older and troubled soccer player who is trying to help a small team from a small town in Scotland get to the final of the cup.
Stan Collymore in Basic Instinct 2
The former Premier League forward has made a splash in Hollywood, starring in the opening scene of this psychological thriller. His brief, intense role in an adrenaline-pumping sports car with Sharon Stone sets the tone for the sequel in a dramatic way.
Ian Wright in Gun No. 6
The Arsenal legend and distinguished media personality turned his focus to serious storytelling in this British drama documentary. His grounded and mature presence brought a ton of weight to the film’s deep dive into gun violence and a unique screen presence.
Éric Cantona in Looking for Eric
The Manchester United legend was known for his theatrical flair and brilliance on the field, and he played a wise and philosophical version of himself. He is a hallucinated life mentor to a failing mailman who gives him advice in cryptic, funny, and French.
Carlo Ancelotti in Star Trek Beyond
The highly decorated Italian manager got a rather surprising cameo in a sci-fi role as a Starfleet doctor. He is seen on a starship looking at a strange alien object, which came as part of the film’s special effects, thanks to his personal connection with the film cast.
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