Former Chelsea striker Mateja Kezman has left football fans utterly astonished with his radically altered appearance, following his retirement and a profound personal vow to embrace monastic life. The 46-year-old, who once graced the pitch as a Premier League champion, now sports a receding hairline and a shaggy, partially grey beard, making him nearly unrecognisable from his playing days.
A Spiritual Calling Beyond the Pitch
Kezman has long demonstrated a devout commitment to religion, particularly through the Serbian Orthodox Church. During his active career, he frequently wore an undershirt depicting Jesus Christ and adorned his body with numerous tattoos dedicated to his faith. In a revealing 2012 interview with the Standard, he expressed his spiritual aspirations, stating, "I want to become a monk. It is God's decision. But if God calls me, I will do it." This declaration highlighted a higher calling that transcended his sporting achievements.
Nomadic Career and Chelsea Stint
Kezman's football journey was notably nomadic, spanning nine countries across Europe and beyond. He first rose to prominence at PSV Eindhoven, where he established himself as one of Europe's most lethal finishers, netting an impressive 129 goals in 176 games. This prolific form earned him a £5 million transfer to Chelsea in 2004, joining during Jose Mourinho's inaugural season at the helm.
However, his time at Stamford Bridge proved challenging. Despite high expectations, Kezman struggled to replicate his Dutch goal-scoring prowess in England, managing only seven goals in 41 appearances. Yet, his single season with the Blues was not without success; he secured a Premier League winner's medal and contributed to the League Cup triumph, notably scoring the decisive goal in a 3-2 final victory over Liverpool.
Post-Retirement Path and Reflections
Despite his earlier monastic intentions, Kezman ultimately pursued a career as a football agent after hanging up his boots. His most notable client is Al-Hilal star Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Reflecting on his Chelsea experience, Kezman shared mixed emotions with the Evening Chronicle, saying, "I am very happy and proud of my time in Chelsea in one year, but now it is behind me. I am very sad because of all the supporters in Chelsea... I owe them more goals - one day it might happen, I might be back to Chelsea, you never know."
Dressing Room Frustrations Revealed
Former teammate Glen Johnson provided insight into Kezman's frustrations during his Chelsea tenure. Speaking to Betting Expert, Johnson recalled an incident where Kezman's anger boiled over in the dressing room: "I don't remember what game it was but I remember what the dressing room was like! He smashed a few lockers up, put a few holes in the seats. It happens all the time, players aren't happy about coming off and he hadn't been playing much at the time and he was given an opportunity but he was frustrated with himself as he'd missed a few chances."
Now, nearly 21 years after departing Chelsea for Atletico Madrid, Kezman's transformation is stark. His current appearance, marked by a receding hairline and unkempt beard, contrasts sharply with the image of the dynamic striker who once captivated audiences worldwide. While his monastic calling remains unfulfilled, his journey from football stardom to a quieter, agent-based life underscores a fascinating evolution beyond the sport.
