Gaming, in its many different forms, has been around for thousands of years. Looking back to when the first slot machine was invented all the way to the latest games released today, gaming as a form of entertainment has a long history.
Whether you’re playing an RPG while seated at your PC or slamming the buttons of a controller, games are all about connection and fun.
Over the years, professional footballers have taken their love of the game a step further by playing off the field, too. Many have started their own gaming streams on platforms like Twitch, where they interact with viewers and fans.
Live Streaming as a Celebrity
It’s not unusual for young celebs to set up streaming accounts, especially if it’s for a brand deal or for them to share about their passion. But when they do, these celebs tend to cause a stir.
Fans always want to connect with their favourite footballers, celebrities and household names. Doing so via a streaming service like Twitch or Kick means there’s more chance of being noticed.
Viewers can donate, subscribe, and raid the streamer in question for a chance to be seen. This makes streaming such as a huge drawcard and the celeb in question will always have massive viewership.
Professional Footballers Behind the Screen
Just as regular people can become famous by live streaming, there are a handful of footballers who use their fame to boost their streaming careers.
Here are some of the most notable pro footballers who have previously and currently dabbled with streaming their favourite video games.
Mesut Ozil
In 2018, Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil set up a Twitch account (under the name mesutozil) and kicked off his first-ever stream by playing Fortnite. It’s believed that Ozil is quite the Fortnite fan and often plays in his own time, but he hasn’t dabbled in live streaming again.
While he only appears to have done one 1.5-hour stream, his Twitch account has more than 173,000 followers, and that single stream received more than 150,000 views.
If Ozil ever decided to hang up his football jersey and become a full-time streamer, it appears he may be a hit.
Sergio Aguero
Sergio Aguero (known as “SLAKUN10” on Twitch) isn’t just a football legend; he’s also kicking it in the gaming world! You might remember him tearing up the field as a striker for Argentina and Manchester City, making fans go wild with his incredible skills.
Starting back in 2003 with Independiente, Sergio dazzled fans with his goal-scoring abilities. Then came his decade-long run with Manchester City, where he etched his name in football history as one of the greatest strikers ever. However, life threw Aguero a curveball when he had to hang up his boots at just 32 due to heart issues.
In 2020, he dove into the world of streaming, adding a whole new dimension to his already impressive resume. Now he plays FIFA, Valorant and Rocket League. He has a massive following of more than 4.8 million followers on the platform.
Neymar Jr.
Neymar Jr. – also known as “neymarjr” on Twitch – isn’t just a football superstar. The talented player is also a Twitch streamer with a massive following of more than 2.5 million people.
Starting his career in 2009 with Santos FC, Neymar quickly became one of the most exciting players in the world. He later moved to Barcelona in 2013 before joining Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League in 2024.
Despite his busy schedule, Neymar finds time for his gaming passion. Since 2017, he’s been entertaining his Twitch followers with games like CS:GO, Fortnite, PUBG, CoD, and Among Us. It’s a fun side of Neymar that fans love to see, showing that even football legends enjoy kicking back and gaming. While he hasn’t been online for a few months, there’s no doubt that Neymar Jr. is still playing his favourite games at home. He even has his own Fortnite skin!
Javier Hernandez
Known as “CH14” on Twitch, Javier Hernandez is not only a star on the football field but also in the gaming world. As a professional Mexican footballer, he’s also made waves while playing for LA Galaxy.
Off the field, Javier’s love for gaming led him to Twitch, where he started streaming in 2019. He’s a big fan of the Call of Duty franchise and even joined Complexity Gaming as a professional esports player in 2022, adding another impressive achievement to his already booming career. With his skills on the pitch and in the gaming world, Javier Hernandez is truly a force to be reckoned with!
Currently, his Twitch channel has just under 1 million followers. CH14 has a steady schedule, and he often streams to discuss the latest football match or to play his favourite games.
Conclusion
Footballers hold a lot of power when it comes to their fans, and if they use this wisely, they can create huge followings online. From streaming for the masses to being signed to eSports companies, the possibilities are endless.
