Anime isn’t just for teenagers or pop culture fans. It has captured the hearts of some of the biggest names in football. From goal celebrations inspired by Naruto to hairstyles paying tribute to Dragon Ball Z, these famous football players show their love for anime in unforgettable ways.Here’s our list of 7 famous football players who love anime, starting with a surprising number one:-
Dominic Solanke
Tottenham Hotspur striker Dominic Solanke shocked fans when he celebrated a goal wearing an Obito Uchiha mask from Naruto. He said the character’s resilience and determination inspire him on the pitch. The celebration went viral and cemented his place among anime-loving footballers.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
At Olympique de Marseille, Aubameyang has been bringing anime culture into football for years. His most famous moment came when he scored in El Clásico for Barcelona and celebrated with a pose from Dragon Ball Z. He also sports anime tattoos and often wears anime-themed outfits.
Eden Hazard
Former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Eden Hazard once revealed he watched Naruto during a flight. Fans have also noticed him making Dragon Ball Z-style gestures during training. His passion for anime often surprises people who know him for his calm demeanor.
Neymar Jr(Most Famous Football Players Who Love Anime)
Brazilian icon Neymar Jr., now playing for Santos, has loved Captain Tsubasa since childhood. He has celebrated goals with Dragon Ball Z poses and even worked with artists to create anime-style portraits of himself.
Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid grew up watching Captain Tsubasa. He was thrilled when he received a portrait of the character from the anime’s creator. Mbappé credits the show for sparking his football dreams.
Paul Pogba
French midfielder Paul Pogba has shown his love for Dragon Ball Z by dyeing his hair blue in the style of “Super Saiyan Blue” from Dragon Ball Super. He is also a One Piece fan and shares anime references online.
Ibrahima Konaté
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté enjoys Attack on Titan and Dragon Ball Super. He once mimicked an Attack on Titan scene in a youth match celebration, showing how anime motivates his competitive spirit.
Q1.Which footballer is most famous for an anime-inspired celebration?
Dominic Solanke is currently the most famous for an anime-inspired celebration. While playing for Tottenham Hotspur he scored and celebrated by wearing an Obito Uchiha mask from Naruto. The moment went viral and made headlines around the football world.
Q2.Why do so many footballers love anime?
Many footballers say anime characters inspire them with traits like resilience and determination. Shows such as Dragon Ball Z, Naruto and Captain Tsubasa tell underdog stories and training journeys that mirror the challenges players face in real life.
Q3.What is the most popular anime among football players?
Dragon Ball Z is the most popular anime among footballers. Stars like Aubameyang, Pogba and Neymar have referenced it in celebrations, hairstyles and even tattoos. Naruto and Captain Tsubasa are also widely loved in the football community.
