There are certain stereotypes about footballers but a significant number of them are civic-minded and want to make a difference to society.
A few down the years have even entered politics in an effort to improve the world around them. Having a huge profile from exploits on the football pitch can certainly help when it comes to winning votes.
Some players have risen all the way to lead their country, while others didn't manage to make much headway at all. Here's what happens when footballers get political…
George Weah
Weah was one of the most gifted footballers to ever emerge from Africa, enjoying successful stints with leading European clubs Paris Saint-Germain and then AC Milan, as well as winning the Ballon d'Or in 1995.