10 Inspirational Quotes from Football Legends

Throughout the history of the game, footballers have not only entertained us with their skill on the pitch, but also inspired us through their off-field words. Here are ten famous quotes from ten great footballers that will motivate you no matter what field or arena you’re competing in.

1. “If you are first, you are first. If you are second, you are nothing” – Bill Shankly
   
   
2. “My greatest challenge was not to win on the field; my greatest challenge was to win off the field” – Pele
   
   
3. “The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning” – Diego Maradona
   
   
4. “Some people think football is a matter of life and death…I don’t like that attitude” – Bill Shankly
   
   
5. “I always believe I can beat anyone I play against” – Lionel Messi
   
   
6. “It’s not about being better than someone else, it’s about being better than you used to be” – Cristiano Ronaldo
   
   
7. “You have to fight to reach your dream; you have to sacrifice and work hard for it” – Lionel Messi
   
   
8. “Success is no accident; it is hard work and perseverance” – Zinedine Zidane
   
   
9. “A lot of football success is in the mind” – Johan Cruyff
   
   
10. “Quality without results is pointless” – Jurgen Klopp

Whether they were playing on a world stage or inspiring us off it, these legendary footballers delivered some real wisdom through their words over the years. We hope they serve as motivation for both athletes and non-athletes alike as they look to reach their goals and dreams!