Footballers are better known for their ability to kick a ball around.

However, there are some who have taken up roles outside the pitch.

While some players play football full-time, others have added education to the profession.

Pulse Sports takes a look at five football players (past and current) who are also graduates with Master’s Degrees.

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Edwin Van der Sar

The former Ajax and Manchester United goalkeeper made a name for himself through his brilliant saves on the pitch. The ex-Netherlands international is a Champions League winner and boasts numerous other laurels.

However, that did not stop him from acquiring higher certificates. Van der Sar – although retired – is currently the Marketing Director of Ajax, and he has also on the verge of acquiring his Masters Degree in International Sports Management.

Giorgio Chiellini

The Italy international is a monster in defense, and is widely known for his combative style of play. However, the Juventus rearguard recently graduated from the University of Turin with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

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The six-time Scudetti winner is not just brainy on the football pitch, but he is also adept with issues on the business front.

Frank Lampard

All-time topscorer for Chelsea, Frank Lampard is another football great who has a degree. The former Manchester City midfielder used to score goals for fun during his playing days, but was also undertaking a course.

Frank Lampard surprisingly has a Degree in Latin – a subject he scored an A in.

Juan Mata

World Cup winner, UEFA Champions League winner, European champion et al. JuanMata has a cabinet full of trophies and personal laurels, but the Manchester United playmaker’s abilities stretch beyond the pitch.

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The 28-year-old has actually taken up a degree in Sports Science and Finance at the University Camilo Jose Cela in Madrid.

Vincent Kompany

Belgium and Manchester City captain, Vincent Kompany is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the world – barring injuries. And his on-field brilliance is also transferred to his academic commitments.

The two-time Premier League winner enrolled in the Manchester School of Business in 2012 to study Business administration.

Andrey Arshavin

Russian striker Andrey Arshavin is mostly remembered for his unfinished business at Arsenal, where he was regarded as a flop. The attacker, however, cannot be tagged the same way outside the football pitch because he has a Degree in Fashion Design.

And his fashion is very popular in his native Russia. He has a thesis on sportswear as well.