From David Luiz to Fabinho: Ex-EPL players playing in Conference League

Marko Arnautovic, Joao Moutinho and David Luiz Photo: PA Images

Several former English Premier League stars continue their careers across Europe, including Brazilian defender David Luiz, who features in the UEFA Conference League after leaving England.

Luiz, who previously played for Chelsea and Arsenal, joined Cypriot champions Pafos in 2025 after spells in Brazil with Flamengo and other European clubs.

The 39-year-old helped Pafos reach the Champions League league phase, where the club faced top European sides, including Bayern Munich, Juventus and Chelsea. He also scored against Monaco during the campaign.

Pafos finished fourth last season, earning a place in the Conference League and giving Luiz another opportunity to compete in European football.

Another familiar face is former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho, who returned to European football after leaving for Saudi Arabia in 2023.

The Brazilian, now 32, joined Trabzonspor, where he has featured in the league following his departure from the Saudi Pro League.

Fabinho was a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield during his time at Anfield, helping the club win the Premier League and Champions League before moving to the Middle East.

Former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac is also continuing his career in Europe with Atalanta, whom he joined in 2023 after leaving Marseille.

The Bosnian international experienced a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury but returned to action and signed a new one-year contract with the Italian club in May.

Meanwhile, Portuguese midfielder Joao Moutinho remains active at the age of 40, continuing his career with Braga after leaving Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023.

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Moutinho spent five years at Wolves, becoming a popular figure at Molineux before returning to Portugal. He has continued to add to his honours, including a League Cup triumph with Braga.

The midfielder has also enjoyed remarkable longevity, having played 1,156 competitive matches during his career.

Their continued presence in European football highlights how experienced players can remain active long after leaving England’s top flight, contributing to clubs in different competitions and helping them compete on the continental stage.

The players who have played in the Premier League, according to Planet Football on Friday, include: