It is fair to say that soccer players are not renowned for their intellect. In fact, the lack of intelligence of certain players has become a topic of humor among many. You will not be surprised to see, with the greatest deal of respect, no Wayne Rooney or Gabriel Agbonlahor on this list. Whilst soccer players can often come across a little dim, if the only time the public saw you was just after you’d been running up and down a pitch for 90 minutes, you may not come across as smart as you’d like either. Furthermore, the demanding nature of becoming a professional soccer player at the highest level means that players very rarely get the opportunity to experience the benefit of further education. However, the tide of public opinion may be turning; recent studies showed that Premier League players were in the top 2% of the population in terms of cognitive brain function, although they did not fare quite so well with IQ tests. A number of players now go through media training, and as such, should begin to come across a little more eloquent when interviewed in the future. In 2013, Paul McVeigh published a book entitled ‘The Stupid Footballer is Dead: Insights into the Mind of a Professional Footballer’ delving into the demand for sharp and speedy thinking required on the pitch from a modern soccer player. The late, great Socrates, who passed away in 2011, proved that there was such thing as a brainy soccer player. The Brazilian legend may fall slightly behind his Greek namesake in terms of intellectual capacity, but the midfielder had a Doctorate in Medicine and practiced medicine after his retirement. Likewise, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has a Masters Degree in Economics and is often noted for his studious nature. Here is a list of the 10 smartest players currently playing the game. 10. Juan Mata 9. Ronaldo 8 Romelu Lukaku 7. Matthew Lawrence 6. Jean-Alain Boumsong 5. Seyi Olofinjana 4. Simon Mignolet 3. Nedum Onuoha 2. Yuto Nagatomo 1. Frank Lampard All is explained... http://www.thesportster.com/soccer/top-10-smartest-soccer-players/1/
Lampard always comes across well in interviews but I didnt know he had an IQ of 150. Blimey Charlie. Had no idea about Nagatomo.
Its all impressive really, interesting that most of that top 10 got their education outside of the UK. I'm sure that suggests something just I'm not sure what. The ability to speak multiple languages always impressed me, I believe there's research around showing it's good for keeping dementia away aswell, although I forgot where I read that...
These points may be well proven true, this Saturday, in regards that It would take 11 smart players making up Hull City. The Tigers to realise that the match against QPR may be " THE" defining game of the clubs history. Whereas a win will take us beyond the DRAMAS & may well prove Influential enough to see the team safe from relegation. The most defining moment that pushes over the line, So conclusively, that the recognized struggle of the Clubs DNA of never doing it easy, may be far behind Us, for once and for all. To give ourselves leverage to secure a position in this league and ensure a future. Yes It will take some SMARTS to achieve this. Fans & Players - one & all.
Some of the reasoning why those players are the most intelligent doesn't add up to much. Ronaldo is super-intelligent because he's got a placement as an intern? I remember back in the seventies there was a lot of fuss because a few players had university degrees. There were two at Liverpool: Steve Heighway and Brian Hall. Then there was Alan Gowling who played for Newcastle I think. If he was still playing Iain Dowie would have to be on the list.
I take it Clarke Carlisle has fallen from grace somewhat? Wasn't he dubbed Britain's brightest footballer?
This talk of intelligence is great, but a finish is instinctive, being there is intelligent. I believe we have a great crop of intelligent and instinctive players coming through in English football - I like Roy, but he is not the future - - - - who is??
http://education-portal.com/academy/lesson/what-are-the-different-types-of-intelligence.html Academic success does not equal intelligence.
Ronaldo/Boumsong can't really be classed as 'playing' Boumsong is without a club and Ronaldo is studying in the UK. His last appearances were for Corinthians in 2011! Although he is part owner of Fort Lauderdale Strikers in the MLS - He hasn't yet played, and looking at how much timber he has added to his frame - an appearance would seem unlikely - unless he's selling burgers. So, why is Clarke Carlisle off the list again?
Difference being that Carlisle has announced his retirement but Boumsong has not, making him just a free agent. As it says Ronaldo's only in because he said last month he'd started training again and was planning on playing.
I don't think he is in the UK now is he? I think he's back in the US training properly now. Could be wrong, mind.
