There’s a big debate about the influence of nature and nurture over the people that we become. Some say that traits that make people successful are inherited, while others believe they can be learned.
The reality is likely somewhere between the two. For example, while everyone can learn a language, some may find it easier than others.
It is common for success to run in families, though. Sam and Holly Branson, whose father is Virgin boss, Richard Branson, made the headlines in 2011 for investing in an energy drink with a provocative name.
Meanwhile, Mick Schumacher, the son of Formula 1 legend, Michael Schumacher, is one of many racing drivers that have followed in the footsteps of relatives.
Football is no different. There are many cases of successful footballers that are one of several in their family. Here are some.
The Ferdinands
Rio Ferdinand spent 12 years at Manchester United, where he made 312 appearances and helped the team to six Premier League titles. However, he wasn’t the first Ferdinand in the Premier League.
His older cousin, Les Ferdinand, began playing professionally in the 1980s and played for teams like Newcastle United, West Ham, Tottenham Hotspur, and Leicester City before retiring in 2006.
The Wrights
Ian Wright is the second-highest all-time goalscorer for Arsenal. His sons, Shaun and Bradley Wright-Phillips have both gone on to become professional footballers.
Both played in the MLS for the New York Red Bulls, with Shaun winning the Premier League with Chelsea before moving to the US.
That’s not all though. Ian’s cousin, Jermaine Wright, played for Ipswich Town when they were in the Premier League, Leeds, and Southampton. Later on, Jermaine’s son, Drey Wright, began playing for Colchester in 2012.
The Laudrups
Michael and Brian Laudrup were two brothers that played for the Danish national team during the 1980s and 1990s. While Michael was no longer on the team at the time, Brian was part of the squad that won the Euro ‘92 championship.
Like the Wrights, the Laudrups have continued their footballing dynasty into next generations. Michael’s sons, Mads and Andreas Laudrup, have become professional footballers playing for several club sides in Denmark.
The Hernandezes
Javier Hernandez Gutierrez is a former Mexican professional footballer who spent 19 years playing in the Mexican domestic leagues, and 11 for the Mexican national team. Javier was even part of the 1986 side that won the FIFA World Cup.
His son, Javier Hernandez Jr, played for the national team in 2010. That’s not all though, Javier Snr’s father-in-law also played for the Mexican national team, as well as having a club career that spanned the 1940s and 1950s.
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