Top 10 famous footballers and the clubs they follow on Instagram

Some of these stars even follow clubs they have never played for.

In today’s digital age, the act of following or unfollowing a club on Instagram by football celebrities transcends personal choice, it has evolved into a strategic, often symbolic gesture. The world of football now intersects heavily with social media, where even the smallest actions can ignite a whirlwind of speculation among fans, analysts, and media outlets. With the growing influence of Instagram as a platform, footballers are no longer just athletes but global influencers and ambassadors of the sport.

Football fans pay close attention to clubs, with millions of followers across their social media accounts, and which players follow them on these platforms. Such interactions can hint at possible transfers, burgeoning alliances, or simply a nod of respect. For players, following a club can be seen as an endorsement of the team’s ethos, a way to signal admiration, or, in some cases, a calculated move to spark transfer rumours or strengthen personal branding.

This feature dives into the Instagram activities of some of the biggest football stars, uncovering the clubs they follow and analyzing the underlying motives behind these actions. From long-standing loyalties and career aspirations to subtle hints about potential transfers, we decode the messages hidden within their social media interactions, shining a light on how the modern game intertwines with the digital realm.

10. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski, the Polish talisman, stands as one of football’s most prolific goal-scorers, having graced clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona with his extraordinary talent. On Instagram, he commands an audience of 36.6 million followers but chooses to follow only 131 accounts, among them FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and the Poland Football Association. By following Poland’s official account, Lewandowski pays homage to his roots, representing his nation with unparalleled pride. With 156 caps, 84 goals, and the captain’s armband on numerous occasions, he remains Poland’s greatest footballing export.

His allegiance to Bayern Munich, where he made 253 appearances and scored 238 goals, is evident through his Instagram. During his tenure, he lifted countless trophies, including multiple Bundesliga titles, DFB-Pokals, and the UEFA Champions League. By following Bayern, Lewandowski acknowledges the profound bond he shares with the Bavarian club, which became synonymous with his peak years. Similarly, his followership of FC Barcelona reflects his current chapter, with whom he has already secured LaLiga and Supercopa de España titles.

However, the absence of Borussia Dortmund from his following list, where he played 131 games and helped win two Bundesliga titles, is striking. Despite leading them to the UEFA Champions League final in 2013, his omission likely stems from his contentious move to Bayern in 2014. This decision may reflect a calculated effort to avoid stirring emotions among Dortmund or Munich fans, given the fierce rivalry between the clubs. Through his selective social media presence, Lewandowski masterfully balances respect for his past while maintaining loyalty to his present, showcasing the diplomacy of a true professional.

9. Mohammed Salah

Mohamed Salah, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest football icons, commands a staggering 63.9 million Instagram followers while following only 233 accounts. Among the clubs he has played for, Salah is seen following Liverpool and AS Roma, highlighting his connection with these sides. His brief stint at Chelsea, where opportunities were limited, explains why he refrains from following the London-based club. Despite spending just two seasons with AS Roma—one on loan and one permanently—his decision to follow them reflects his gratitude for the platform they provided during a pivotal stage in his career.

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A post shared by Mohamed Salah (@mosalah)

Salah’s affiliation with Liverpool, however, is profound and evident. The Egyptian King has made 268 appearances for the Reds, netting 172 goals and winning several accolades, including the 2019-20 Premier League title and the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League under Jurgen Klopp’s management. His Instagram followership of Liverpool signifies his enduring bond with the club where he established himself as one of the best players in the world. As speculation about his future at Liverpool continues fans eagerly await clarity on whether he will extend his legendary spell or seek a new challenge.

In an interesting departure from football affiliations, Salah also follows Indian actress Urvashi Rautela on Instagram, showcasing the diversity of his connections. This choice has sparked curiosity among fans, further highlighting how Salah’s social media presence extends beyond the realm of football. His selective following reflects both professional loyalty and personal interests, capturing the intrigue of millions worldwide.

8. Harry Kane

Harry Kane, England’s and Tottenham Hotspur’s all-time leading goal scorer commands a significant Instagram presence with 17.3 million followers while following 280 accounts. After spending the majority of his career with Spurs, where he made 317 appearances and scored 213 goals, Kane continues to follow the club, reflecting his deep-rooted connection. He also follows the England national team, where his record-breaking tally of 69 goals in 103 appearances has cemented his legacy as one of the country’s greatest-ever players. Kane’s Instagram activity highlights his enduring allegiance to both his former club and his national team.

In 2023, Kane embarked on a new chapter by joining Bayern Munich, marking his first experience outside England. Despite a relatively modest start to life in the Bundesliga, Kane remains loyal to the Bavarian giants, as indicated by his followership of the club on Instagram. This gesture underscores his commitment to his current team as he adapts to life in Germany and seeks to make a significant impact in the seasons ahead. His presence at Bayern Munich is already generating excitement as fans anticipate his contributions in both domestic and European competitions.

Interestingly, Harry Kane’s Instagram account also reflects his admiration for global sports icons, as he follows Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli. This cross-sport connection showcases Kane’s appreciation for excellence across various disciplines, further enhancing his reputation as a global athlete. Through his Instagram activity, Kane not only expresses loyalty to his clubs but also offers a glimpse into his diverse interests beyond football.

7. Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham, one of the brightest stars of modern football, boasts an impressive Instagram following of 37.9 million, while he follows 801 accounts. The 21-year-old English midfielder began his career at Borussia Dortmund, where he made 92 appearances and scored 12 goals, earning a reputation as a prodigious talent. His enduring connection to the German club is evident as he continues to follow Borussia Dortmund on Instagram. Bellingham’s meteoric rise has seen him become a pivotal figure for both club and country, making him a prominent name on and off the pitch.

Currently plying his trade at Real Madrid, Bellingham has made a sensational impact, with 42 appearances and 25 goals for the Spanish giants, showcasing his incredible versatility and goal-scoring prowess. Naturally, he follows Real Madrid on Instagram, highlighting his commitment to Los Blancos as they aim to dominate European football. Beyond his personal achievements, his Instagram activity reflects his support for his family, as he follows Sunderland AFC, the club where his younger brother Jobe Bellingham currently plays. This gesture showcases Jude’s loyalty and pride in his brother’s career, despite having no direct ties to Sunderland himself.

On the international stage, Bellingham has become a cornerstone of Gareth Southgate’s England squad. His performances at UEFA Euro 2024 were instrumental in England’s journey to the final, solidifying his status as a generational talent. Bellingham’s decision to follow the England national football team on Instagram further underscores his pride in representing his country. Through his social media activity, Bellingham offers a glimpse into his professional affiliations and personal values, blending loyalty, ambition, and family pride seamlessly.

6. Kevin De Bruyne

Kevin De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of the modern generation, has a remarkable Instagram presence with 26.3 million followers while following just 484 accounts. Once labelled a “Chelsea reject,” De Bruyne silenced critics by establishing himself as a dominant force in the Premier League with Manchester City. Before his Manchester City days, he showcased his potential at Wolfsburg, paving the way for his eventual success. Currently, he follows his club Manchester City on Instagram, where he has won six Premier League titles and numerous other trophies, cementing his legacy as a legend in English football.

On the international stage, De Bruyne is a cornerstone of Belgium’s “Golden Generation,” representing the national team with distinction. He contributed significantly to Belgium’s historic third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, a feat that brought immense pride to the nation. Reflecting his commitment, he follows the Belgium national team on Instagram. De Bruyne’s performances for both club and country have made him an inspirational figure, known for his extraordinary vision, precision passing, and game-changing abilities.

Despite not being highly active on Instagram, De Bruyne’s influence extends far beyond the platform. His journey from adversity to becoming one of the Premier League’s all-time greats inspires countless young athletes. Through his Instagram activity, he maintains a connection to his roots while celebrating his current success with Manchester City and Belgium, showcasing a blend of humility and excellence.

5. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, with a staggering 646 million Instagram followers, stands as the most followed individual in Instagram’s history, a testament to his global influence. Despite this vast fame, his following list reveals a more grounded and humble side. Ronaldo follows several clubs that shaped his career, including his youth club, Clube Desportivo Nacional, where he began his football journey. This gesture reflects his gratitude toward the club that nurtured his early potential. Additionally, he follows Sporting Clube Portugal, where his professional career started to take flight, making 25 appearances before moving to Manchester United.

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A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

Ronaldo’s connection to Manchester United is deeply personal, as the club helped forge his legacy on the global stage. Despite the contentious departure under manager Erik ten Hag, his loyalty to the club remains evident, as he continues to follow Manchester United on Instagram. Likewise, Ronaldo maintains a connection to Juventus, the club with which he won Serie A and the Coppa Italia, showcasing his appreciation for his time in Italy. His current allegiance to Al Nassr Football Club, where he continues to perform at a high level, and his support for the Portugal National Football Team, under which he has achieved great international success, are also reflected in his Instagram activity.

However, one notable omission from Ronaldo’s following list is Real Madrid, the club where he spent a decade and achieved remarkable success, including four UEFA Champions League titles. This absence raises eyebrows, especially considering the iconic status he holds at the club. Despite the absence of Real Madrid from his list, Ronaldo’s Instagram following remains a reflection of his journey and the various clubs that have contributed to his legendary status.

4. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, a global icon with an astounding 504 million Instagram followers, curates a following list that mirrors his illustrious football career. Messi follows FC Barcelona, the club where he made history with 837 appearances and 709 goals, cementing his status as the club’s greatest-ever player. Despite leaving Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he continues to honour his ties to the Catalan club, reflecting his deep connection to the team. In addition to Barcelona, Messi follows Inter Miami, his current club in the MLS, where he has quickly become the focal point of their attacking play, making 25 appearances so far.

What makes Messi’s Instagram following particularly intriguing is his connection to two Premier League giants, Manchester City and Chelsea, despite never playing in the league. These clubs represent the pinnacle of European competition and perhaps acknowledge Messi’s admiration for the English game, even though he never suited up for these clubs. Furthermore, Messi maintains a connection to his roots, following his childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, and La Bajada FC, a club from his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, paying homage to his early beginnings in the sport.

Interestingly, Messi’s Instagram following list does not include PSG, the French club where he won several domestic titles and prestigious individual awards during his tenure. This omission raises questions about his relationship with the club after his departure, highlighting the complexities of his connection to PSG, despite the accolades and success he achieved there. Messi’s Instagram activity, thus, offers a unique insight into his football journey, honouring his roots, past triumphs, and present pursuits.

3. Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland, the Norwegian phenomenon, has captivated the football world with his lethal goal-scoring prowess and remarkable rise to prominence. With a staggering 38.6 million followers on Instagram, Haaland is undoubtedly one of the most popular players of his generation. Despite his widespread fame, he follows only a select few accounts, reflecting his focus and the few clubs that have truly marked his career journey. Among these, Borussia Dortmund hold a special place, as it was with the German club that Haaland rose to international stardom. In his 67 appearances for Dortmund, he became one of Europe’s most coveted talents, and his continued support for the club is evident through his Instagram follow.

Haaland’s current allegiance to Manchester City is equally clear, as he has continued his incredible form under Pep Guardiola, helping City dominate both domestically and internationally. Following his current club on Instagram symbolizes his commitment to the team with whom he has made an immediate and indelible impact. Additionally, Haaland’s connection to the Norwegian national team is significant, with the striker having netted 38 goals in 39 appearances, proving his importance to his country’s footballing ambitions. His Instagram following also reflects this national pride, as he remains loyal to the team that has witnessed his evolution into one of the world’s top strikers.

Interestingly, Haaland’s Instagram presence is rather minimal when it comes to clubs, with only Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City appearing on his following list. This selectivity hints at his focus on the teams that have shaped his career, further emphasizing his drive to be recognized as one of the greatest players of all time. As he continues to rewrite the record books with Manchester City, Haaland’s legacy in the making is reflected not just in his performances on the field, but also in his intentional and minimalistic approach to social media.

2. Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappé, one of the most followed French personalities on Instagram, boasts an impressive fan base of 122 million followers. Known for his electrifying pace and exceptional talent, Mbappé’s Instagram activity sheds light on his football journey. He follows Real Madrid, the club he currently represents, despite a relatively underwhelming start to his tenure there. His allegiance to the French national team is evident as well, as he follows the squad with which he achieved global stardom by winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup and coming tantalizingly close to replicating the feat in 2022.

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Mbappé’s Instagram connections also reflect his roots and gratitude. He follows AS Monaco, the club where his professional career began, showcasing his acknowledgement of their role in shaping his early years. Despite spending a short stint with Monaco, his continued association with the club underscores his humility and respect for his formative days. Alongside Monaco, he follows Stade Malherbe Caen, a French second-division club, reflecting his ties to Ligue 2 through his ownership stake in the club via his company, Interconnected Ventures.

Interestingly, Mbappé’s social media activity extends beyond current affiliations to signify his business acumen and personal connections. His involvement with SM Caen highlights his off-pitch ventures, portraying him as not only a football icon but also a visionary stakeholder in French football’s grassroots development. Through his Instagram, Mbappé intertwines his illustrious career, personal gratitude, and future aspirations in the sport.

1. Vinicius Jr

Vinicius Jr., a footballer whose brilliance on the field is matched only by his strong stance against racism, has become a prominent figure not just for his performances but also for his advocacy. As a brand ambassador for anti-racism movements, Vinicius uses his platform to speak out against hate and racism, making a powerful impact both on and off the pitch. With a massive following on Instagram, he has turned his social media presence into a tool for promoting positivity, inclusivity, and change. His commitment to these causes is as evident as his footballing talents, which have made him a household name worldwide.

Vinicius Jr.’s journey through football has been marked by significant milestones, particularly at Flamengo and Real Madrid. His connection with Flamengo, where his career began, remains strong, as he continues to follow the club on Instagram. His move to Real Madrid, where he has amassed 190 appearances and scored 57 goals, has been a defining chapter of his career. During his time with the Spanish giants, he has won numerous titles, including LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup, cementing his place as one of the most talented and successful young players of his generation. His loyalty to Real Madrid is reflected in his continued following of the club on Instagram.

In addition to his club achievements, Vinicius Jr. is also an important figure for the Brazilian national team, with 37 appearances and five goals. While his international career has had its ups and downs, his commitment to representing Brazil is unwavering. His following of the Brazilian national team on Instagram further highlights his pride in wearing the national colours. Through his footballing journey, his advocacy work, and his commitment to making a difference; Vinicius Jr. has established himself as not only a football star but also a voice for positive change in the world.

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