These players who became stars after a World Cup

The World Cup is the most prestigious football event, where goals, drama, and unforgettable moments intertwine. But it can also become an exceptional showcase for players. Recently, Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha joined Chilean club Colo-Colo after an impressive tournament, reminding us that the competition can transform careers. At 40, his journey—from Portugal’s second division to the top club in Chile—is unique but not isolated. ### **Careers Transformed by the World Cup** Before Vozinha, other footballers experienced a meteoric rise thanks to their performances in the World Cup. Marc-Vivien Foé, unknown before 1994, made his mark at the World Cup in the United States despite Cameroon’s early elimination. His standout performance against Brazil earned him a free transfer to the French club Lens. He spent four years there, winning the French league title in 1998 before moving to West Ham, Manchester City, and Lyon, where he claimed the Coupe de la Ligue and the league title in 2002. Foé passed away in June 2003 after collapsing during a Confederations Cup semifinal. Gilberto Silva, meanwhile, capitalized on the 2002 World Cup to establish himself. Replacing the injured Emerson, he played every match in Brazil’s victorious campaign. His performances convinced Arsenal to sign him for around £4.5 million. Nicknamed "The Invisible Wall," he won two FA Cups and was part of Arsenal’s unbeaten "Invincibles" team in 2004. ### **Transfers to Europe’s Elite Clubs** Javier Mascherano made his name at the 2006 World Cup, where Argentina reached the quarterfinals. His club and international performances caught the attention of European clubs. Despite wanting to stay at Corinthians, he eventually joined West Ham in 2006 alongside teammate Carlos Tevez. After a brief stint in England, he signed for Liverpool, reaching the Champions League final in 2007. Mascherano later played for Barcelona, winning two Champions League titles and five Spanish league championships. Mesut Özil also made history at the 2010 World Cup at just 21 years old. His four goals and four assists in seven matches drew the attention of top clubs. In August 2010, he left Werder Bremen for Real Madrid for €15 million. There, he won the Copa del Rey, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup before setting Arsenal’s transfer record in 2013 for £42.4 million. ### **Exploits That Change Lives** James Rodriguez marked the 2014 World Cup edition with six goals, including a famous volley against Uruguay. His goal, voted the tournament's best by over four million votes on the FIFA website, earned him the Golden Boot and a spot in the tournament's all-star team. Real Madrid signed him for around €75 million, offering him two Champions League titles. His goal against Uruguay also won the FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal of the year. Vozinha, on the other hand, became a cult figure after helping Cape Verde secure its first-ever World Cup point against Spain. His social media influence skyrocketed, growing from 50,000 to nearly 30 million followers on Instagram. Named in the tournament's all-star team, he even had a species of sea slug named in his honor. After stints in Slovakia, Angola, Moldova, and Cyprus, he joined Colo-Colo, Chile's most successful club with 34 league titles and 14 Chilean Cups. U.S. visas blocked for Iran ahead of the World Cup could also impact player transfers. Others like Keylor Navas, Edinson Cavani, and Enzo Fernández have also benefited from their World Cup performances to join prestigious clubs. These examples show how a World Cup can provide unparalleled visibility and open doors to the biggest clubs.