From a leading figure in Asian soccer to sharing business ventures with one of the world's most famous celebrities – such is the life of Keisuke Honda.

The Japanese player, who once wore the number 10 for an underperforming AC Milan, was never able to replicate the high level of national team play.

His greatest achievement at club level was reaching the Champions League quarterfinals in 2010 with CSKA Moscow. At that time, it seemed like he could conquer the world.

However, he ultimately found greater success in business. In 2018, he co-founded an investment fund alongside Will Smith and other entrepreneurs, called 'Dreamers.'

Although they initially focused on Silicon Valley companies, they didn't limit themselves to that. They invested $46 million in Gen G, one of the largest eSports clubs in the world.

The origins of this relationship are not public. However, during the World Cup in Russia, the actor praised Keisuke.  "I like his heart. He's a very good and genuine guy."

The success in business allowed Honda to treat soccer almost as a hobby, playing all around the world: Mexico, Australia, Brazil, Azerbaijan, Lithuania…

Even while still active as a player, he took charge of the Cambodian national team, although couldn't qualify for a major tournament and resigned in 2023 after five years in the role.

Now, at 38 years old, he has come out of retirement to play in Bhutan. He signed with Paro FC for a match in the preliminary round of the new Asian Challenge League.

For Japan he is a major star and has the most goals in World Cups (4) for the national team. He also owns an amateur club there, Edo All United FC.

There are places where he isn't as well-loved. During his time at Botafogo, he requested an armoured car before arriving, and fans criticized him for his low level of performance.