Football is undoubtedly the most popular sport in the world, thus there is never a lack of demand. Since the millennium's turn, the sport has experienced an unprecedented economic boom, with broadcast, media, and merchandise money bringing massive financial flow to the game.

As a result, top-level footballers are among the highest-paid athletes in the globe.

For much of its existence, Europe and South America have dominated the football landscape. However, growing markets such as China, Japan, and the Middle East are quickly catching up.

The high-profile investments made by City Football Group and Qatar Sports Group in Manchester City and PSG have not gone unnoticed.

Money has become an enormously valuable aspect for many football players. Many of them have even left the famous European scene at the pinnacle of their careers in search of brighter pastures and a lucrative deal.

While the supporters' popular feeling may claim the moral high ground and denounce those actions, football is still a job.

Footballers, like any other profession, have every right to prioritise money and the long-term well-being of their families because their careers are so brief.

Without further ado, here are five players that elected to choose money above their careers:

#1 Radamel Falcao

Radamel Falcao created a name for himself at FC Porto in spectacular fashion. Falcao's goal-scoring prowess aided Porto's Europa League triumph under Andre Villas-Boas.

Falcao's career took off after he signed a contract with Atletico Madrid in 2011. In La Liga, playing for Diego Simeone, the number 9 went toe-to-toe with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, earning the wrath of defenders.

Falcao finished his Rojiblancos career with 70 goals in 91 matches and another Europa League triumph.