In the world of professional football, loyalty often gets called into question — but when the game moves from the pitch to reality TV, things can get even messier.
This year’s Love Island has turned into a proving ground not just for romance but also for the faithfulness of footballers looking for love in front of millions.
Two footballers entered the famous Villa hoping to score big in the love department — but their track records, both on and off the field, left many viewers raising eyebrows.
Harry Cooksley Plays a Risky Game with Romance
Harry Cooksley, once associated with clubs like AFC Wimbledon and Mallorca, has had quite the nomadic football career — eleven teams in less than a decade.
Currently playing for Farnham Town, the 30-year-old is now trying his hand at love.
Inside the Villa, Cooksley found himself in a tricky spot, getting close to both Shakira Khan and Helena Ford.
His flirtatious charm — and jaw-dropping claim that he once slept with an entire women’s football team — kept viewers talking, but not always for the right reasons.
Harrison Solomon Stuns Viewers with Steamy Villa Moments
Harrison Solomon, a 22-year-old former Derby County player, didn’t exactly shy away from the cameras either.
After cozying up with Lauren Wood under the covers, despite previously flirting with Toni Laites, the ex-Premier League 2 player shocked viewers with his bold moves.
Once seen playing in the FA Cup and now attending the University of New Hampshire in the US, Solomon made headlines once again — this time for choosing to leave Love Island early, catching everyone off guard.
Not All Footballers Fall from Grace on Love Island
While Cooksley and Solomon may have made waves for all the wrong reasons, other footballers have found genuine connections — even long-lasting relationships — through Love Island.
Some have gone on to build families, marry their reality TV sweethearts, and prove that love off the pitch can be just as real.
Dani Dyer and Jarrod Bowen Go from Neighbours to Newlyweds
Dani Dyer, who won Love Island back in 2018, eventually found lasting love not with her former partner Jack Fincham, but with her next-door neighbour — England and West Ham striker Jarrod Bowen.
After becoming a mum and thinking a footballer wouldn’t be interested in anything serious, Dani slowly opened the door to a real relationship with Jarrod.
Now married with twin daughters and supported by her dad, Danny Dyer, the couple has become one of Love Island’s most heartwarming success stories.
Maya Jama and Ruben Dias Take Romance International
Love Island host Maya Jama and Manchester City defender Ruben Dias have been going strong since they started dating.
Dias flew out to Spain to be by Jama’s side during filming, and the couple recently enjoyed a dreamy getaway to Ibiza and Florida.
While Maya was in the spotlight, Ruben kept things lowkey — a shift from his past relationship with season five’s Arabella Chi.
Now, it seems Dias has traded in flings for something more solid.
Olivia Attwood and Bradley Dack Reignite the Flame
Olivia Attwood may not have found true love during her time on Love Island, but the experience helped give her clarity.
After breaking up with on-screen partner Chris Hughes, she rekindled her real-world romance with footballer Bradley Dack.
The pair, who first met in a London nightclub, eventually tied the knot in 2023 after years of ups and downs.
Olivia credits Love Island with giving her the space she needed to realize Bradley was the one.
Georgia Steel Keeps Romance with Harry Clarke Quiet
Georgia Steel has taken a few shots at love through Love Island, but it looks like she may have finally found “the one” with Ipswich defender Harry Clarke.
Though their romance has been mostly under wraps, the pair has been spotted together in gyms and on romantic holidays — even sharing loved-up snaps to mark his birthday.
Ella Thomas Moves On with Charlton’s Lloyd Jones
After splitting from fellow Islander Tyrique Hyde, Ella Thomas made her relationship with Charlton Athletic captain Lloyd Jones official in May.
The two looked blissfully happy as they celebrated the final match of Charlton’s season together.
Their connection seems to be going strong, despite Ella’s previous drama on Love Island.
Amber Gill Opens Up in Relationship with Jen Beattie
Amber Gill, Love Island winner of 2019, took a big step in her personal journey when she began dating Scottish footballer Jen Beattie.
The couple went public in 2022, with Amber openly discussing her sexuality and embracing her identity with confidence.
Though the two split in late 2023, they’ve remained close friends — and Amber continues to be admired for her openness and authenticity.
Grace Jackson Breaks It Off with Marcus Rashford
Even superstar forward Marcus Rashford hasn’t been immune to heartbreak. After going on a few dates with Love Island All-Stars contestant Grace Jackson, the relationship fizzled.
Jackson reportedly ended things because she didn’t feel Rashford was serious — a twist in the tale as Rashford now faces uncertainty in his football career, too, after being sidelined by Manchester United’s new manager.
What’s Love Got to Do with Football?
Whether they’re searching for love in the Villa or trying to make a name for themselves on the pitch, these footballers prove that romance and sport are more intertwined than ever.
From flings to forever, the journey from football boots to beach dates continues — but only time will tell who scores and who gets subbed out.