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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.