This time, in Football Heroes, we focus on the young Argentine star nicknamed the "next Maradona," and we follow his career from club football to international fame. At just 17 years old, and before playing a single match for Barcelona, Messi made his debut with Argentina in a friendly match for the under-20s against Paraguay. In 2005, he led the Argentine under-20 team to the FIFA Youth World Cup title. The World Cup is known as the best competition the world can offer. In 2006, the young star helped Argentina reach the Round of 16. As the 2010 World Cup approaches, will Lionel Messi be able to lead his country to victory?
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Born in Portugal and named in honor of President Reagan, Ronaldo began to show signs of his talent at the age of three. Thirteen years later, Manchester United spent 22.2 million euros to bring him to the world's most famous club. His career with the "Red Devils" has been eventful, with the star having to regain the respect of supporters after a few incidents on the field. He became the most expensive player in the history of football when Real Madrid secured his services for a rumored amount of 13 million euros per year.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Not to be confused with the young Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, or simply Ronaldo, has been captivating the football world for over a decade with his superb ball control, finishing skills, and victorious smile. The Brazilian is a true football icon: he has been named FIFA World Player of the Year three times, and from the first day of his signing with Real Madrid, his jersey sales set record highs. However, his career has not been without challenges: numerous club changes and a long knee injury have prevented him from continuing on his trajectory.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Ronaldinho, the Brazilian football star, developed his talent playing futsal, the indoor version of global football. The young midfielder played for Paris St Jérôme in 1998 and followed up with a dazzling performance at the FIFA World Cup, attracting the interest of clubs such as FC Barcelona and Manchester United. FC Barcelona eventually won the bidding war by paying 32.2 million euros for Ronaldinho. He was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 2004. After five seasons, over 200 matches, and 95 goals for FC Barcelona, Ronaldinho moved to Italy in 2008 to play with AC Milan.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Winner of the FIFA Player of the Year award and a member of the Brazilian team that won the 2002 World Cup, Kaká has crafted an impeccable image, making him a role model for young fans. At the age of eight, he was spotted at a tournament in São Paulo, Brazil, by talent scouts and joined São Paulo's junior team. By 18, he moved up to the senior team. Kaká's form in Brazil caught the attention of the major European leagues, and in 2003, the young star signed with AC Milan. He impressed in his first year, finishing with an average rating of 7.9, which remains one of the highest ratings ever recorded for a player's first season.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Thierry Henry boasts a record that would make any footballer envious. With a FIFA World Cup, a European Championship, and a UEFA Cup to his name, as well as hundreds of goals scored in some of the world's greatest clubs, he knows what it takes to become an elite footballer. He made his debut in world football without even going through a trial, as Monaco's scout was so impressed with his ball skills that he was recruited on the spot. He moved to Arsenal after a frustrating year in Italy. After a difficult start, Henry began to lead the Gunners to a glory they hadn't seen since the early 1990s, culminating in two European championship titles.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
It's a name that strikes fear into all the defenders he faces. Wayne Rooney has earned his reputation as one of the world's best forwards. Born in Liverpool in 1985, Wayne grew up in Croxton and supported the local club, Everton Football Club. From a young age, his commitment and talent were evident and impressed scout Bob Pendleton. His career took off when he was transferred to Manchester United in August 2004. He wore the captain's armband for the first time in 2006, in a match against FC Copenhagen. His habit of scoring goals, as well as helping his teammates to score, shows a maturity and sportsmanship that are enviable for his age.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Frank James Lampard battled the weight of expectations even before playing a football match, thanks to his father Frank Senior, a talented footballer and coach. Frank Junior was transferred to Chelsea and in 2004, his talent really began to blossom, helping his team win their first league cup in fifty years. Lampard was the club's top scorer with 13 goals for the season. His international career began in 1997 when he made his debut against Greece with the under-21 team. Since then, although he was not selected for the 2002 World Cup, he took part in the 2006 World Cup, but his inability to score in major matches has drawn particular attention from English fans.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Didier Drogba had a difficult childhood, unlike many of us, but that did not stop him from developing his footballing talents with the help of his uncle. After scoring 17 goals in 34 matches in a local championship, he caught the attention of a Marseille scout and joined the team in 2003. From there, the sky should have been the limit, if it hadn't been for a leg injury before the UEFA Cup. Twenty-six million euros was the transfer fee for Drogba to Chelsea, and the chance to play in the Premier League. But the injury would further delay his career, and after returning to the team, he struggled to regain form. However, he finished the season with sixteen goals in 40 matches, a more than acceptable return for the club's investment.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Michael Owen, who currently plays for Manchester United in the EPL, has been consistently scoring goals for about a decade. His quick pace and lethal strikes have allowed him to rub shoulders with some of the best footballers on the planet. From an early age, it was evident he had what it takes, and while still in high school, he scored 79 goals in a single season, breaking his own record and making headlines. His rise to the top continues to inspire children in his hometown of Chester, England. After eight successful years at Liverpool, he transferred to Real Madrid in 2004, but he struggled to shine in Spain, on a team filled with stars like Beckham and Zidane.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
The most recognized footballer on the planet has played for some of the world's most famous clubs. The son of two die-hard Man U fans, his talent was spotted early on, and although he dreamed of starting his career at Old Trafford, it was Tottenham's Spurs who first showed interest in the young superstar. Man U signed him as an apprentice at the age of 16, and his dream of becoming a Red Devil finally came true. Between 1995 and 2003, the club enjoyed a series of successes unmatched in the history of the championship. But tensions between Beckham and coach Alex Ferguson reached a peak, and Beckham signed with the Spanish club Real Madrid, a decision that would bring him more trouble in his personal life than on the field.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Standing at one meter ninety in socks, Michael Ballack's impressive stature makes him a formidable figure for rival teams. But it's his teamwork and midfield skills that have endeared him to fans and coaches throughout his career. In 2002, he signed with the German team Munchen EV, which he helped to win the championship in his first year. The following year, the club suffered a hangover in the first division, and Michael had his worst performance in three years – only nine goals for the season. However, the club and he himself regained their stride in 2004/05, winning the double for the second time in three seasons. The following year, the talented midfielder left in search of greener pastures, signing with the English Premier League team, Chelsea.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
The Dutch footballer Ruud Van Nistelrooy played for five major teams during his career, but, surprisingly, only participated once in the World Cup. His talent as a striker allowed him to play for clubs as famous as Manchester United and Real Madrid. After winning the Dutch Player of the Year title by scoring 31 goals in 34 matches, Van Nistelrooy was transferred to Manchester United in April 2001, after recovering from a debilitating knee injury. He quickly integrated into his new club, scoring 23 goals in his first season. In 2006, he left the famous club to join Real Madrid, amid rumors of personality conflicts with manager Sir Alex Ferguson and teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Pelé is a name known worldwide, not only by football fans, but also by anyone with even a passing interest in the sport. A national hero in his native Brazil, he earned the nickname "king" for his incredible feats on the field. Before becoming famous on the field, he lived in poverty in San Paolo and worked in tea rooms to earn money to help his family. His talent was noticed early on, and he made his debut with Santos at the age of 15. His most prolific year was 1958, with a staggering total of 66 goals. There was no shortage of clubs eager to recruit the young star, but Pelé ultimately remained loyal to his first team, Santos. However, he came out of retirement to join the American team Cosmos, not only for the salary but also because he wanted to learn English.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Arguably the best French player of all time, Zinedine Zidane - or Zizou, as he is affectionately known to fans - enjoyed an epic career spanning two decades. On the pitch, he was a general, leading his troops by example. Off the pitch, he was, and still is, a devoted family man, and devotes his time to charity work. Number one recruit for Italian club Uventis, he played 151 matches, scored 24 times and helped the club win six titles. It was only a matter of time before he received the call from Real Madrid, who paid 78 million euros for his services. The highlight of his international career was the 1998 World Cup final, when France beat the Brazilian favourites by three goals to nil, two of which Zizou scored himself, meaning that heʼs single-handedly won France their first World Cup.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Diego Maradona is arguably South America's best-known soccer star. He made his debut on October 20, 1976, ten days before his sixteenth birthday. Two of his brothers also went on to become professional footballers, but it was Diego who impressed scouts with his talents from an early age. He was selected to play for Argentina in the 1982 World Cup, which led to a move to Spanish club Barcelona. Following disputes with the club's directors, he asked to be transferred and was bought by Italian club Napoli for the record sum of £6.9 million, and it was here that the Argentine's talent really came to the fore. He helped the club enjoy the most successful period in its history, becoming a club icon.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Although his transfer from Barcelona to Real Madrid was considered one of the most controversial decisions in recent history, Louis Figo took it in his stride, refusing to be trapped by the media hype. He began his career with Barcelona in 1995 and played a crucial role in the club's string of successes between 1996 and 1999, including the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. After playing 249 times and scoring 47 goals for Barcelona, he left the club in a transfer that shook the foundations of the Spanish league.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
His legacy is perpetuated by the saying "Maradona, good; Pele, better; George, THE best". Best is best known for his eleven years with the world's most famous club - Manchester United - and has played for over 15 clubs in his 21-year career. The Irish midfielder earned a reputation as a soccer star, as much for his rock ʼnʼ roll lifestyle and good looks as for his speed, ball control and prolific goal-scoring ability. Sadly, an addiction to alcohol would inevitably be his undoing, leading first to the decline of his career and then to his death.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Sir Robert "Bobby" Charlton is one of the most esteemed and respected footballers of all time. As a midfielder, he was feared by opponents for his attacking instincts and dangerous long-range shots. Playing for Manchester United, he was considered a veteran at the age of 20 after the 1958 Munich air disaster, which decimated the club when eight of its players were killed. New manager Matt Busby would rebuild the team over the next decade, and Busbyʼs Babes, George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton, would become fan favorites and an inspiration to the team
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
The most famous club in world soccer has been led since 1986 by the talented and capable Sir Alex Ferguson. The second-longest-serving manager at Manchester United, Ferguson was not the most popular choice to succeed a succession of less successful managers, but he quickly changed minds and brought a host of new talent to the club, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona and perhaps Britain's most famous footballer, David Beckham.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Franz Beckenbauer is considered one of Germany's greatest footballers. Recognized as the player who reinvented the "sweeper" position, the superstar played for his country 103 times and is also the only player to have captained his country in three European Cups. In a career spanning more than twenty years, he is recognized as one of the most influential players in world soccer. He is also one of the game's great thinkers, his tactics having revolutionized the way a "central defender" or "sweeper" is played.
2000
24m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
French footballer Fabien Barthez has built up a solid reputation over a long and successful career. Although his father wanted him to play rugby, Barthez knew where his heart - and talent - lay and joined Toulouse FC. After a few years in the minor leagues of French clubs, he was transferred to Manchester United for £7.8 million, such was his talent as a goalkeeper. Manchester United fans had high hopes for the new recruit, and he returned the favor with a successful first year, quickly becoming a fan favorite. As for his country, Barthez helped France win their first World Cup in 1998.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Samuel Etoʼo is one of Africa's most exciting footballers. Author of over 100 goals in five seasons with FC Barcelona, he was also part of the team that won the 2000 Olympic tournament. He currently plays for Italian club Nationale. A long way from his humble beginnings in Cameroon, indeed! He has taken part in two World Cups and five African Nations Cups, winning two of them, and remains Africa's most decorated and revered player.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
The Manchester striker's courage and serenity have earned him praise from some of the world's greatest players, including Diego Maradona.He enjoyed great success with both club and country, winning an impressive number of individual awards in the process. Nicknamed "The Apache" after the Argentinian neighborhood where he grew up, Carlos Tevez was born into poverty, but his talent on the soccer field brought him the fame and wealth that would ensure he never lived in poverty again.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
The royal title of King Kahn perfectly suited the formidable stature of Oliver Kahn, the German goalkeeper who ended a brilliant career by retiring in 2008. He made his professional debut in 1987 and soon established himself as a quality goalkeeper with an uncanny ability to stop shots on goal, whose imposing build and style of play intimidated opposing forwards.By the end of the 98 season, he was considered the best goalkeeper in the Bundersleague.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
Soccer glory must have seemed a long way off to Brazil's Rivaldo, who was born into extreme poverty in his hometown of Paulista. His natural talent led to him being recruited by his local club, but the directors believed that his poor health (due to malnutrition) would prevent him from achieving the career his talent promised.After years of being bounced from club to club, Rivaldo moved to FC Barcelona in 1997, where he spent five years building a solid name and reputation, ensuring that he never again lacked for the essentials in life.
2000
23m
Documentaries
All audiences
Director(s)
- Bill Farrow
Casting
- Peter Frank
CountryAU
