Former football star David Bentley made headlines at Cheltenham Festival 2025, but not for anything sports-related. The 40-year-old ex-Arsenal and England midfielder was caught on camera showing off his dance moves, dressed in a sharp beige suit. The video quickly went viral, leaving fans both amused and surprised.
From Football Prodigy to Retirement at 29
Once hailed as one of England’s most promising young talents, Bentley’s career had an unusual trajectory. After struggling for game time at Arsenal, he thrived at Blackburn Rovers, where he famously scored a hat-trick against Manchester United in 2006. His form earned him a £15 million move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2008, but he never quite fulfilled expectations at Spurs.
Following multiple loan spells, including at West Ham and Russia’s FC Rostov, Bentley unexpectedly retired in 2014 at just 29, citing a lack of passion for the modern game.
Life After Football: Business & Investments
Unlike many former footballers, Bentley has successfully transitioned into business, amassing an estimated net worth of £10 million in 2025. He co-owns La Sala, a popular restaurant chain in Marbella and London, frequented by celebrities and footballers. Additionally, he has invested in property development, proving his business acumen.
Viral Moment at Cheltenham Festival
Bentley’s carefree dance at Cheltenham 2025 delighted fans, many of whom hadn’t seen him in years. Social media erupted with reactions, with one fan joking, “Who needs football when you can dance like that?”
Though his football career was short-lived, Bentley seems happier than ever, embracing life on his own terms.