World football star looks totally unrecognisable in rare public outing after retirement

A former Chelsea star has sent the internet into meltdown after looking totally unrecognisable in a new photo.

In the modern era, we're all used to footballers stepping into new jobs within the sport after hanging up their boots.

Gary Lineker is arguably more famous for his post-playing career punditry stint than anything he did on the pitch. Meanwhile, Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher are anchors for Sky Sports' Premier League coverage.

There are still some players who do all they can to shed the spotlight and fade into a quiet, simpler life to enjoy the fruits of their labour.

It typically involves changing your appearance. If you've represented several of the world's biggest clubs and your international team, chances are millions know how you style your hair or trim your beard.

One man who has mastered the art of staying anonymous is ex-Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain.

He's rarely seen or heard from since retiring with MLS outfit Inter Miami in 2022, even shunning social media, which is a rarity in the modern world.

That's why an image of a fan meeting Higuain out in public has quickly gone viral, with the 38-year-old sporting a long beard and wearing a white tank top while browsing the clothing section of a sports shop.

Higuain is regarded as one of the most feared strikers of his generation. He scored 335 goals in his professional career, winning league titles with Real Madrid and Juventus, while also bagging Coppa Italia and Europa League medals with Napoli and Chelsea, respectively.

On the international stage, Higuain represented Argentina 75 times across nine years.

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Fans react to Higuain's appearance

Naturally, X has been flooded with several people discussing Higuain's choice of attire.

One person said: "He looks like Trevor from GTA 5," while another added, "How did he even recognise him?"

A third put: "If he had hair, he wouldn't look that different", and a fourth joked, "Higuain's sneak level = 100."

Higuain is still involved with Inter Miami, working in a player development role. During his emotional retirement speech, Higuain said: "After the most wonderful career I could have had, I feel that football has given me so much.

"Many thanks to those who have always believed in me ... the time has come to say goodbye."