Football players who like anime: Neymar Jr is a huge fan of Dragon Ball

Anime, a term used to describe Japan’s distinctive comic and animation culture, has grown into a global phenomenon. Iconic titles such as Dragon Ball and One Piece have left a lasting mark on audiences worldwide, particularly among younger generations.

That cultural influence has naturally extended into football. Many of today’s players were raised during the rise of anime’s global popularity, and as a result, they carry that connection into their professional lives.

For some modern stars, anime goes beyond simple entertainment. It serves as inspiration, shaping their mindset while also offering a personal way to express themselves on the pitch.

In this article, nowgoalmobi.net lists the football players who like anime, highlighting how this unique interest continues to intersect with the modern game.

Football players who like anime

1. Achraf Hakimi

Among football’s anime enthusiasts, Achraf Hakimi stands out as perhaps the most outspoken admirer of Naruto. His affinity with the series is not merely casual, as he often references its core values, particularly the themes of perseverance and the so-called “Will of Fire,” which resonate with his approach to the game.

That influence is also visible on the pitch and in celebrations. At times, Hakimi has recreated iconic gestures, from performing hand signs inspired by Naruto’s jutsu to referencing the famous “Fusion Dance” from Dragon Ball. These moments have occasionally been shared with teammate Kylian Mbappé, highlighting a playful chemistry that extends beyond football.

Off the field, his connection to anime culture remains evident. Hakimi has posted fan-made artwork depicting himself as a Jonin from the Hidden Leaf Village, underlining just how deeply the series has shaped his personal identity.

2. Ibrahima Konaté

In contrast to more casual followers, Ibrahima Konaté can be viewed as one of the most committed anime fans among modern players. The Liverpool FC centre-back does not limit himself to mainstream titles, as he actively keeps up with new seasonal releases and engages with the wider fan community.

He has also spoken openly about the role anime plays in his routine. In interviews, Konaté has explained that watching series helps him unwind before high-pressure fixtures, allowing him to reset mentally. At the same time, he draws inspiration from intense characters such as Eren Yeager and Satoru Gojo, whose focus and determination mirror the mindset required at the top level.

That connection often carries over to social media. Konaté regularly shares fan edits, including images of himself with Super Saiyan-style hair or dressed in the Survey Corps cloak, reflecting how closely anime is tied to his identity.

3. Julian Brandt

Julian Brandt has long been recognised for his technical intelligence on the pitch, and his interest in One Piece appears to mirror that same appreciation for detail and complexity. Rather than simply following the main storyline, Brandt is drawn to the series’ layered world-building and nuanced characters.

Interestingly, his favourite figure is not the central protagonist Monkey D. Luffy, but the more enigmatic Trafalgar D. Water Law, often referred to as the “Surgeon of Death.” That preference perhaps reflects a taste for strategic thinking and understated influence, qualities that are also evident in his playing style.

This connection has not gone unnoticed at Borussia Dortmund. The club’s media channels frequently incorporate One Piece-inspired content when featuring Brandt, including “Wanted” poster-style graphics. As a result, his enthusiasm for anime has gradually become an identifiable part of his public image.

4. Karim Adeyemi

While Julian Brandt reflects a more analytical connection to anime, his Borussia Dortmund teammate Karim Adeyemi embodies a younger generation for whom the culture is firmly in the mainstream. For Adeyemi, anime is not a niche interest but a natural extension of modern lifestyle and identity.

That influence is most visible in his celebrations. The forward has often recreated the iconic “Gear Second” pose from One Piece, a transformation associated with explosive speed. It is a fitting reference, given Adeyemi’s reputation as one of the fastest players in the Bundesliga.

Off the pitch, the connection continues to shape his image. Adeyemi is regularly seen arriving at stadiums in high-end anime-inspired streetwear, blending elements of fashion and gaming culture. As a result, anime has become more than a pastime for him, instead forming a key part of his personal brand.

5. Neymar Jr

For Neymar Jr, anime is closely tied to the idea of resilience and inner strength. He has often drawn comparisons between the battles seen in Dragon Ball and his own career, particularly when dealing with injuries and external criticism. In that sense, the narrative of overcoming adversity holds clear personal meaning.

This connection is also reflected in his body art. Neymar’s back tattoo famously features Goku in his Super Saiyan form alongside Batman, symbolising a blend between a light-hearted hero and a darker, more determined persona.

Like many Brazilian players, he was introduced to football through Captain Tsubasa, a series that inspired a generation. That early influence remains visible today, as Neymar has been seen wearing customised boots and apparel paying tribute to the show that first shaped his ambitions.

Football players who like anime

1. Achraf Hakimi

2. Ibrahima Konaté

3. Julian Brandt

4. Karim Adeyemi

5. Neymar Jr

Nowgoalmobi has listed some of the football players who like anime.

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