5 Footballers who hold/held educational qualifications

Socrates (Degree in Medicine)

"Doctor Socrates" remains one of the finest attacking midfielders of all times.

Socrates remains one of the finest attacking midfielders that have graced the game. The Brazilian, who gained footballing prominence courtesy of his performances for Corinthians and Brazilian national team in the 1970’s and 80’s, was a technically sound playmaker who possessed the ability to split open the best of defences with finesse on the ball as well as an astute understanding of the game.

His easily recognisable beard and headband made him a global phenomenon and was deservedly given a place in Pele’s FIFA 100 list of world’s greatest living players in 2004 and the Brazilian remains a cult figure worldwide even today.

However, not only was Socrates a highly acclaimed footballer, he was also one of the well-educated footballers. The Brazilian held a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine from the Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto in Sao Paulo and what is perhaps more fascinating is that he earned his degree while pursuing his footballing career in Brazil.

“Doctor Socrates”, as he was lovingly called by fans and players alike, even practised medicine after he was done with his footballing career. Apart from being a medically qualified individual, Socrates is also remembered for his political views as he openly supported direct Presidential elections and even claimed that if the government did not adopt the direct elections, he would move to Italy in front of 2 million people at a public rally.