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Modern football has seen managers demand versatility from their players. Top-flight clubs want players well equipped to operate in multiple positions on the field, as managers want their teams to be flexible.
Over the years, though, there have been a few players who have excelled after changing positions, so much so that they are regarded as some of the best in the game in their new positions.
On that note, here's a look at five such players who became superstars after changing their positions.
#5 Vincent Kompany
Regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League during his prime, Vincent Kompany transitioned from a defensive midfielder to a world-class defender with relative ease.
A product of the Anderlecht academy, Kompany produced strong performances for both Anderlecht and Hamburger SV, earning a move to Manchester City in 2008. Initially utilised in midfield, the Belgium international started playing as a centre-back for the Premier League club. Kompany was key as he helped Manchester City become one of the best clubs in England.
Kompany made 360 appearances in all competitions for the club, winning four Premier League titles. Renowned for his leadership, the 35-year-old is regarded as a Manchester City legend. He retired from the game in 2020 and is currently the manager of Anderlecht.
#4 Bastian Schweinsteiger
One of the best midfielders of the modern generation, Bastian Schweinsteiger was a sensational player for club and country.
During his early days with Bayern Munich, Schweinsteiger made his name as a technically gifted winger. However, he was converted into a central midfielder during his initial days with the Bayern Munich first team, and Schweinsteiger did not look back after that.
A versatile player capable of operating in multiple midfield roles, the Germany international won eight Bundesliga titles and a Champions League trophy with Bayern Munich. A FIFA World Cup winner as well, Schweinsteiger did not enjoy the best of spells with Manchester United, and retired after a stint with Chicago Fire.
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#3 Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry is acknowledged by many as the greatest Premier League player and one of the greatest of all time.
While many know of Henry the striker, the France international began his career as a winger. During his days with AS Monaco, he was utilised on the left wing, while his short spell with Juventus saw him operate on the wings and on occasions as a wing-back.
Henry moved to Arsenal in 1999, where Arsene Wenger began to use him as a striker. The Frenchman flourished at the club under Wenger, making 376 appearances across two spells, scoring 228 goals and providing 105 assists. He won two Premier League titles with Arsenal, and was an integral part of their 'Invincibles' squad.
#2 Gareth Bale
From a marauding left-back to one of the best wingers in the world, Gareth Bale has enjoyed an excellent career at the highest level.
A product of Southampton's famed academy, Bale began his career as a left-back and a dead-ball specialist. Physically gifted, extremely quick and technically strong, Bale attracted the attention of Tottenham Hotspur, and it was here that he started playing on the wings to devastating effect.
After his world-class 2012-13 season, Bale earned a move to Real Madrid for a then world-record fee of nearly £91 million. Despite his various off-field issues in Spain, the Wales international has proved to be worth the fee. He has won two La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies with Los Blancos.
#1 Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos' trophy cabinet speaks for itself. One of the most decorated players in the game, the centre-back was a talismanic presence for Real Madrid during his time at the capital club.
Ramos began his career at Sevilla as a talented right-back. However, his time with their first team was short, as Real Madrid came calling in 2005. After an initial stint at right-back, Ramos began operating as a centre-back and excelled in that role.
A technically gifted, aggressive centre-back, Ramos is a modern-day great. He made 671 appearances in all competitions for Real Madrid, scoring an astounding tally of 101 goals. With Spain, he played key roles in their two European Championship and FIFA World Cup success. The 35-year-old recently joined Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer.
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