Is there such a thing as the footballing gene? The best brothers in World football

Parents across the globe ferry their children to games to improve their talents on the ball, in the hope that one day they can fulfill the ultimate dream of becoming a top footballer. Which begs the question of why sometimes two make it from one family. A matter of parenting, or something more genetic?

Below is a list of the top brothers to both make it in the world of football.

1. Phil & Gary Neville

The pair came through the famous class of 92 and never looked back since with both going on to be legends for their clubs, Gary in Manchester and Phil Later on at Everton. Both now established pundits, Phil and Gary are sure to keep going for years to come in the world of football, with Phil moving to La Liga as assistant manager in Valencia.

2. Kolo & Yaya Toure

Move across Manchester and there is another pair of brothers who have established themselves independently of each other. Both started off with trials in North London with Arsenal, as it turned out kolo got the contract. With Kolo taking the Arsenal route, Yaya had to find another route, finding his way through eastern Europe before heading to Barcelona. Very different players both were reunited at Man City under the new regime and haven’t looked back since. Kolo moved on, but Yaya despite rumours reportedly wishes to see out his career at the Etihad.

3. Jerome and Kevin Boateng

Jerome and Kevin grew up together in Berlin. Later, though Kevin went on to play for Ghana his familial home, as a pose to Germany as with Jerome. As such, they are practically the only siblings to play against each other internationally, both now playing in the Bundesliga. Particularly Jerome, being the stalwart at the back for Bayern during their successful period since 2011.

4. Fabio & Rafael Da Silva

Extremely peculiar given both are full backs at Man Utd like the Nevilles, sadly it hasn’t gone quite the same direction. Though Rafael has now moved onto Lyon and Fabio is playing the Championship with Cardiff, they are truly a fan favorite at Old Trafford. Both have Brazil caps, but perhaps the hype was fuelled by being in a side ran by the most successful manager of all time.

5. Frank & Ronald De Boer

The twins both started out at Ajax and stuck with each other for pretty much their whole careers. Both having spells at Barcelona, Rangers, Al-Rayyan and Al-Shamal, altogether the two brothers spent just 5 years apart, and both are part of the management at Ajax currently. Frank in particular has seen much success in managing Ajax, winning the Eredivisie 4 times straight in the process and the twins have left an impression everywhere they have gone. Combined the De Boer twins won over 170 caps for the Netherlands.

So what do you reckon is there such a thing as the footballing gene?

Guest blog by charliewrights