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MAIN / Football / Best Football Quotes: Kickstart Your Day with 20+ Inspirational Quotes from Soccer Legends!

Football is a beautiful sport that has been defying boundaries and cultural divides. India, too, has fallen under its spell. While the love for this game has been ingrained in the hearts of millions for generations, its recent surge in popularity has set the nation abuzz with excitement.


Besides entertainment, football often serves a deeper cause. The sport has been graced by legendary players whose words transcend the field, offering valuable life lessons. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of motivational football quotes from some of the sport’s most iconic figures.

Table of Contents

Football Motivational Quotes That Are Worth a Read

If you’re seeking a dose of inspiration and motivation, look no further! Read along and get inspired by the mesmerizing collection of football quotes in English!

Inspirational Football Quotes

“The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning.” – Pelé

Pele quotation

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, aka Pelé, needs no introduction. Often regarded as the Greatest of All Time, Pele served as a world-famous forward. He was a prolific player for Brazil and represented club teams like Santos and the New York Cosmos. His remarkable career included three World Cups, two Copa América titles, and various domestic and international honors.

“You have to fight to reach your dream. You have to sacrifice and work hard for it.” – Lionel Messi

Lionel-Messi-quotation

Lionel Messi, one of the most cherished modern-day greats, is a multi-dimensional forward who has lit up the footballing world. His journey from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain, followed by Inter Miami, highlights an exceptional run. A quick look at Leo’s achievement tally and you’ll understand why he is the G.O.A.T for many—7 Ballon d’Or (most by any), 2x The Best FIFA Men’s Player, Multiple Cup Titles, FIFA World Cup 2022, Copa América: 2021, CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions: 2022, and the list goes on.

“I once cried because I had no shoes to play soccer, but one day, I met a man who had no feet.” – Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine-Zidane-quotation

Zinedine Zidane, a midfield maestro, graced the football pitch with his elegance. His career at Juventus, Real Madrid, and the French national team included a World Cup victory and various prestigious titles. Other achievements include 1x Ballon d’Or, 3x FIFA World Player of the Year, 6x UEFA Champions League titles (three as manager, three as a player), etc.

“There is no pressure when you are making a dream come true.” – Neymar

Neymar-quotation

Neymar, a Brazilian forward, has been dazzling the world with his skills. His journey from Santos to Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Al Hilal, along with his impressive list of trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, showcase his footballing prowess. Speaking of individual awards, Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior holds a formidable authority. He has won 2x South American Footballer of the Year, 1x FIFA Puskás Award, 3x Chuteira de Ouro, and more.

“All good athletes make mistakes; the great ones learn to make that mistake only once.” – Raul Lopez

Raul-Lopez-quotation

Raul Lopez, a Spanish midfielder, achieved great success with Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, securing multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles.

“I always want to become better. If never being satisfied is a problem, then I have it. At least it’s a good problem.” – Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Zlatan-Ibrahimovic-quotation

Zlatan Ibrahimović, the iconic Swedish forward, boasts a remarkable trophy-laden career. He conquered top leagues across Europe, clinching numerous titles. His journey included stints with renowned clubs like Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United. His individual accolades, including multiple Ballon d’Or nominations and prestigious awards, underscore his exceptional skills and contributions to the world of football.

“To win, you have to score one more goal than your opponent.” – Johan Cruyff

Johan-Cruyff-quotation

Johan Cruyff was a Dutch football legend. He enjoyed a remarkable career as both a player and a manager. As a player, Cruyff played for clubs like Ajax and Barcelona, helping them secure numerous titles. He was a three-time Ballon d’Or winner, symbolizing his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Cruyff later transitioned into coaching, leaving a lasting legacy with Barcelona’s “Dream Team.”

“The most important thing for a forward is the speed of thought. Top players read the game.” – Samuel Eto’o

Samuel-Eto-o-quotation

Samuel Eto’o, the Cameroonian forward, is a football legend with an illustrious career. He achieved success at clubs like Barcelona and Inter Milan, winning multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles. His international accomplishments include African Cup of Nations victories and an Olympic Gold Medal. He also holds the record as the all-time top goalscorer in the African Cup of Nations.

“Young players need freedom of expression to develop as creative players. They should be encouraged to try skills without fear of failure.” – Arsene Wenger

Arsene-Wenger-quotation

Arsène Wenger, a renowned French football manager, managed Arsenal from 1996 to 2018. During his tenure, he transformed the club, winning three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups. Known for his influence on English football, Wenger’s innovative coaching methods and focus on youth development left a lasting legacy.

“If you don’t believe you are the best, then you will never achieve all that you are capable of. Also, I don’t mind people hating me, because it pushes me.” – Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano-Ronaldo-quotation

Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese football superstar who boasts multiple awards and honors. These include 5x FIFA Ballon d’Or and 1x FIFA World Player of the Year awards. CR7 has been the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League and has received distinctions for his performance in various European Championships and domestic leagues. Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the greatest modern footballers of all time, alongside Lionel Messi.

Football Quotes About Life

“I learned all about life with a ball at my feet” – Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho-quotation

Ronaldinho, a Brazilian forward, enchanted football fans with his skills at clubs like Barcelona and AC Milan, securing prestigious titles such as the UEFA Champions League. His individual honors include FIFA World Player of the Year awards, Ballon d’Or, and numerous top assist provider titles. Ronaldinho’s football magic earned him a well-deserved place in the hearts of fans and the sports world.

“I don’t have time for hobbies. At the end of the day, I treat my job as a hobby. It’s something I love doing.” – David Beckham

David-Beckham-quotation

David Beckham, the iconic English midfielder, achieved success at top clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid, collecting Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy. Beckham’s individual accolades include being a FIFA World Player of the Year runner-up and having the most assists in the Premier League.

Off the field, he’s an Officer of the Order of the British Empire and a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Beckham’s legacy as a football ambassador and philanthropist is truly extraordinary.

“When people succeed, it is because of hard work. Luck has nothing to do with success.” – Diego Maradona

Diego-Maradona-quotation

Diego Maradona, the legendary Argentine footballer, left an indelible mark on the sport. His illustrious career includes triumphs with clubs like Barcelona and Napoli, where he won domestic league titles and international competitions, including the UEFA Cup. Maradona’s contributions extended to his national team, guiding Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986. He was showered with individual honors, including FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, FIFA Player of the Century, and many more.

Quotes on Football Love

“I have to keep working hard and playing well because I don’t like to be second or third. They’re the worst places to be. You would be proud, of course, because it means you’re on the way, but you want to finish first.” – Paul Pogba

Paul-Pogba-quotation

Paul Pogba, the talented French midfielder, excelled at Manchester United and Juventus, with two FIFA World Cups and domestic league titles to his name. His individual awards and honors, including the FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Ball and UEFA Europa League Player of the Season, are a testament to his exceptional skills.

“The joy and love that I get from playing football are unbelievable. It is such a feeling that I want to give everything that I have got. I just enjoy it; I am living a life that I never even dreamt of.” – Sunil Chetri

Sunil-Chetri-quotation

Sunil Chetri, the prolific Indian forward, stands as a prominent figure in Indian football. His impressive list of achievements includes being named AIFF Player of the Year seven times. Chetri’s contributions extend to the international stage, with multiple SAFF Championship Player of the Tournament and Top Scorer titles. He’s been a hero in various Indian football leagues, claiming the Golden Boot in both the I-League and the Indian Super Cup.

Football Team Quotes

“The first 90 minutes are the most important.” – Bobby Robson

Bobby-Robson-quotation

Sir Bobby Robson was an English footballer and manager. He enjoyed success as a manager with clubs like Ipswich Town, PSV Eindhoven, Porto, Barcelona, and Newcastle United, winning various league titles and cups. His managerial career spanned several decades and earned him numerous accolades, including the UEFA President’s Award and BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award.

“In football, the result is an impostor. You can do things really, really well but not win. There’s something greater than the result, more lasting — a legacy.” – Xavi

Xavi-quotation

Xavi, a Spanish midfield maestro, is celebrated for his contributions at Barcelona, including four UEFA Champions League titles and numerous La Liga victories. Currently, he’s at the helm of FC Barcelona as a manager, and the team is thriving under his guidance.

Football Short Quotes

“I just hate losing and that gives you an extra determination to work harder.” – Wayne Rooney

Wayne-Rooney-quotation

Wayne Rooney, the prolific English forward, enjoyed an illustrious career with clubs like Manchester United, earning five Premier League titles and UEFA Champions League success. In the Premier League, Rooney received multiple PFA accolades, including the Players’ Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year, Fans’ Player of the Year, and numerous appearances in the PFA Team of the Year. Read about the top football leagues popular in India.

“You owe it to yourself to be the best you can be.” – Christian Pulisic

Christian-Pulisic-quotation

Christian Pulisic, an American winger, is a popular name in European football. He started his professional career in 2016 and has played for top clubs like Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund. He even won the UEFA Europa League title and has played for the United States in international matches. Pulisic currently holds a pivotal role at the prestigious Italian powerhouse AC Milan.

Some Cool Football Quotes for Instagram

So far, we’ve uncovered some of the best football quotes from game legends. Before we draw curtains, let’s explore a few captivating captions that can light up your Instagram posts.

  • Football is more than a game; it’s a passion.⚽️❤️
  • Victory is sweetest when you’ve known defeat. 🏆
  • In football, every day is a new opportunity to become better.n⚽💪
  • Life is better when you’re kicking a ball. ⚽😄
  • Chase your dreams, and don’t stop running.🏃‍♂️⚽
  • Win or lose, always choose to play. ⚽❤️
  • Football is not just a sport; it’s a way of life.⚽🌍
  • Teamwork makes the dream work. ⚽🤝

Wrapping Up

With that, we’re concluding our journey through some of the most inspiring quotes on football. In this article, we’ve delved into the motivational world of football through the words of legendary players and figures in the sport. These quotes about football remind us that it is not just a game; it’s a source of life lessons, motivation, and unwavering determination.

Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan, in search of football love quotes, or someone seeking inspiration, these sayings from Pelé, Cristiano Ronaldo, and many others are bound to ignite your spirit. But guess what? There is more to it!

We’re talking about the opportunity to take your enthusiasm a step further. How about placing some bets on your favourite teams and players? Parimatch is here to provide you with a thrilling betting experience, offering a wide range of options to enjoy the beautiful game to the fullest. Visit Parimatch today (or download the app) and turn your football knowledge and passion into winnings.

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