Football legend Gonzalo Higuaín has sparked concern after looking ‘homeless’ in a rare public appearance since retiring.
The former Chelsea and Real Madrid striker was spotted in a sports store in Miami by a fan.
The ex-Argentina forward looked dramatically different from his playing days.
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The 38-year-old, who retired from professional football in late 2022 after a final spell with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, was seen with a full, unkempt beard.
The balding World Cup finalist wore a simple vest and shorts while posing alongside the young fan.
Social media users reacted with shock, with one poster describing him as “a beaten-down, washed-up man”, as reported by Need To Know.
Comments ranged from light-hearted surprise to concern, with some fans bluntly stating he “looks homeless” or speculating about possible depression.
The former striker, who enjoyed a glittering career spanning River Plate, Real Madrid, Napoli, Juventus, Chelsea and Inter Miami, has maintained a low public profile since hanging up his boots.
Premier League fans will vividly remember his loan spell at Stamford Bridge in 2019 where he contributed to Chelsea’s Europa League triumph under Maurizio Sarri.
He currently serves as player development coach for Inter Miami II, the club’s reserve side in MLS Next Pro, a role he took up in September 2024 alongside his brother Federico and other former players.
Higuaín has also embraced padel, winning a local tournament in Miami in April 2024 and regularly playing at clubs in the area with his family.
The former star has largely avoided social media and media interviews since retirement, focusing instead on family life in Miami and mentoring young talent.
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