Players Transforming Their Gardens into Football Pitches: A Glimpse into the Personal Spaces of Soccer Stars

2024 is a big year for football fans and punters assessing the best sign-up offers, with Euro 24 in Germany kicking off in June. However, when studying the form of the players and sides ahead of the summer showpiece, have you ever stopped to wonder what a footballer has in his garden?

Known for their luxurious lives and sprawling mansions, high-profile footballers are in a position to do almost anything they choose with their gardens. Whilst swimming pools, saunas, or a beautiful pergola may appear to be the obvious options, it seems that some players simply can’t get enough of the beautiful game.

Pitches, Pitches, and More Pitches

As if the matchday stadiums and training grounds weren’t already enough, some players must have a pitch no more than a stone’s throw away, i.e. in their own back garden. 

Whether it be to hone their skills in their own time, practice penalty shootouts (highly recommended for the members of the England squad), or simply entertain the kids, mini and full-size pitches are becoming an increasingly familiar sight on the premises of the stars of the Premier League, La Liga, and beyond.

So, who are these pitch-obsessed players? We now present nine big-name stars who have, or previously had, a pitch in their back garden. 

1. Lionel Messi

We begin with the GOAT. Now based in the US, the Barcelona home of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner boasted a mini football pitch in his back garden, complete with dugout.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo

Next up, is the other GOAT, depending upon which side of the Messi vs Ronaldo argument you fall. At his home in Madrid, Ronaldo's garden housed a full-sized football pitch, complete with high-quality turf, goalposts and, of course, a dugout… if it’s good enough for Messi.

3. Wayne Rooney

Former England captain Wayne Rooney transformed his garden into a football paradise. His Cheshire home features a pitch that includes artificial turf, ensuring year-round use regardless of weather conditions. Rooney's pitch is equipped with floodlights, allowing for evening sessions. 

4. David Beckham

David Beckham's garden includes a football pitch where he and his children often play. Beckham's pitch is not only a place for personal enjoyment but also serves as a training ground for his sons, who are following in his footballing footsteps with some success.

5. Gareth Bale

Welsh star Gareth Bale has also invested in a private football pitch. Bale's pitch is distinctive in featuring a replica of the Bernabeu Stadium, where he played for Real Madrid. This bespoke pitch includes miniature stands and realistic pitch markings, offering an authentic feel. 

6. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund striking sensation Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also created a football pitch in his garden. The pitch of the Gabon international featured professional-grade grass and goalposts. 

7. John Terry

Former Chelsea captain John Terry has a football pitch in the garden of his Surrey mansion. The professionally designed pitch of Captain Fantastic features high-quality turf and full-sized goals. The pitch is used for friendly matches and social gatherings, making it a central part of Terry’s home life.

8. Mohamed Salah

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has transformed his garden into a football pitch that serves as a personal training ground. The pitch, equipped with all the necessary features for professional practice, allows Salah to refine his technique and maintain his fitness. This private space also serves as a playground for his children, who enjoy playing football with their father.

9. Jamie Vardy

Vardy’s impressive pitch gives the Leicester City hitman a perfect place to practice his shooting and fitness drills. Vardy's pitch is not only a training ground but also a place for his family to engage in the sport.