Left Barcelona at his peak. Could have played until 38. One of the most gifted passers ever — Cruyff called him the best player he ever coached. Retired quietly and the world barely noticed.
Three Ballon d'Ors by 28. Then his ankle gave up. Had 6 surgeries. Never played again. The greatest "what if" in football. His volley in Euro 88 remains the best goal ever scored.
Quit at 30, at his absolute peak. Could have played another 5 years. Instead, he became an actor and philosopher. "When the seagulls follow the trawler..." Classic Cantona.
The Joy of the People. Won 2 World Cups. Dribbled past everyone. Alcoholism destroyed him. Died broke and alone. Brazil's most talented player had Brazil's saddest ending.
"I spent a lot of money on booze, birds, and fast cars. The rest I just squandered." Best was the first football superstar. Retired from top-flight football at 27. The talent was infinite; the discipline wasn't.