Football players are renowned for their incredible skills and talents on the field, but what about their rituals that make them strange and superstitious? A number of these eccentricities include lucky charms, weird pregame routines among others. They will take us through some of the strangest habits that footballers have been known for in the past.

Laurent Blanc and Fabien Barthez: The Bond of Luck

This is a memorable scene which has forever been etched in the minds of the fans as it depicts Laurent Blanc kissing his bald goalkeeper’s head, Fabien Barthez. This was a symbol of luck for France during their glorious period between late 1990s and early 2000s. Although outsiders treat this rite as abnormal, it shows how close friends can be while trying to win over.

Thibaut Courtois: A Touch of Luck

When Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois goes on the field, a touch on the chin is enough to make luck smile. Even though it seems silly, this routine is important to Courtois because it helps him relax during games.

Luis Suarez: A Tribute in Kisses

The former Liverpool and Barcelona striker incorporates a heartfelt tribute into his goal celebrations by kissing his right hand three times. Each kiss symbolizes his love and appreciation for his family members, from his wife to his children. Suarez’s ritual adds a personal touch to his performances, reminding fans of the importance of family amidst the intensity of professional football.

Mo Salah and Kolo Toure: The Last Entry Tradition

Many soccer players believe that they should go out last from the locker rooms before entering a game area according to some superstition; Mo Salah also follows this tradition. When Liverpool are introduced ahead of a match, Salah always insists on being the last player out onto the pitch – an act consistent with his goal poaching instincts while playing on it. Nevertheless, this superstitious practice sometimes results into setbacks with examples drawn from when ex-Liverpool and Arsenal defender Kolo Touré nearly got disciplined by UEFA after delaying kick off time in one Champions League match. Nonetheless, the faith in the significance of last entrance is unyielding among football aristocracy.

Jack Grealish: Defying Tradition with Lucky Boots

It’s uncommon for any soccer player to use the same boots throughout a season; however, Jack Grealish decided otherwise at Aston Villa. Instead of changing them frequently like many other footballers do, he preferred to wear one pair until they were torn beyond repair. This unconventional belief made him regard such boots as talismans that came true when he facilitated Aston Villa’s elevation back to the Premier League.

Erling Haaland: The Power of Lasagna

Lasagna is the name of a traditional Italian dish which Norwegian striker Erling Haaland eats just before each game while playing for Manchester City. His father Alf Inge Haaland prepares lasagna for his son who receives it as both food and ritual during home matches. It is this strange custom that shows how important family ties and customs are contributing to his on-pitch exploits.

In conclusion, football world is just full of fascinating customs and superstitions that have given us insights into the minds of players both on and off the field. These eccentricities—ranging from lucky mascots to pre-match habits—contribute to making the game more interesting and highlighting the various characters within it. As supporters, we may forever be in complete darkness as to why these ceremonies exist but we ought to recognize their role in creating stories around the football greats.