David Bentley – Career, Net Worth, and Life After Football

David Bentley was once considered the next big thing in English football. He broke through at Arsenal, starred at Blackburn Rovers, and earned a big-money move to Tottenham Hotspur. But injuries, inconsistency, and a loss of passion saw him retire at just 29. Today, he runs bars and restaurants in Spain and Gibraltar, and his social media bio reads: “Retired Footballing Picasso | Dancing Queen | Father of 4 legends.”

This article covers his entire career, his personal life, net worth, and what he is doing now. All facts are sourced from verified public records, official club websites, and reliable media outlets. Where information remains unconfirmed, that is stated explicitly.

What is David Bentley Doing Now? Life After Football

Key Insights

• David Bentley was part of Arsenal’s historic Invincibles squad in 2003-04, making a handful of appearances.
• His most prolific period was at Blackburn Rovers (2005-2008), where he earned England Under-21 caps.
• A big-money move to Tottenham in 2008 did not live up to expectations, leading to loans and early retirement at age 30.
• Since retiring, Bentley has maintained a low‑profile social media presence, describing himself humorously as a “Retired Footballing Picasso”.
• He is a father of four, based on his Instagram bio, but spouse/partner details remain private.

Quick Facts

David Bentley Net Worth and Personal Life (Wife, Children)

How much is David Bentley worth?

No public financial disclosure exists for David Bentley’s current net worth. His £15 million transfer to Tottenham in 2008 was a significant sum, but his earnings over his career are not known. Since retiring, he has co‑owned bars and restaurants in Marbella and Gibraltar through the Sala Group, which suggests he remains financially stable. Any specific net‑worth figure found online is speculative and not backed by verified sources.

Who is David Bentley’s wife?

Public records identify Kimberley Bentley as his wife. In 2011, she expressed frustration on Twitter about his career uncertainty. Beyond that, details about their relationship, marriage date, and current status are not confirmed in authoritative sources.

Children

Bentley’s Instagram bio states “Father of 4 legends,” indicating he has four children. No names or ages have been publicly shared.

David Bentley’s Career: Arsenal, Tottenham, Celtic and More

Early Years and Arsenal

Bentley joined Arsenal’s academy at age 13 and made his senior debut at 18. He was part of the unbeaten 2003‑04 Premier League title‑winning squad, though his appearances were limited. He also spent time on loan at Norwich City. With first‑team opportunities scarce, he requested a transfer in 2005.

Blackburn Rovers (and the Celtic question)

After a loan spell at Blackburn Rovers, he made the move permanent in January 2006. At Blackburn, he scored 13 goals in 88 league appearances and was valued at around £18 million by the club. Despite some online mentions, search results do not confirm that Bentley ever played for Celtic. That claim appears to be a confusion with another player.

Tottenham Hotspur

In July 2008, Tottenham signed Bentley for £15 million (with a possible £2 million in add‑ons) on a six‑year contract. His time at Spurs was marred by injuries, inconsistent form, and loan spells to Birmingham City, West Ham United, and FC Rostov in Russia.

International Career

Bentley earned seven senior caps for England, making his debut in September 2007. He also represented England at Under‑21 level.

David Bentley Biography: Age, Birth Details and Playing Style

David Michael Bentley was born on 27 August 1984 in Peterborough, England. He stands 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) tall and played primarily as a right winger or attacking midfielder. His playing style was built on pace, accurate crosses, and an ability to strike the ball from distance.

Gambling Addiction

Early in his career, Bentley admitted to a severe gambling addiction, placing up to 100 bets per day. He overcame the problem in 2005 and has spoken little about it since.

Career Timeline (2001‑2014)

1. 2001: Joined Arsenal youth academy from local football.
2. 2003‑04: Made senior appearances for Arsenal, part of the unbeaten Premier League title‑winning squad. Also loaned to Norwich City.
3. 2005: Loaned to Blackburn Rovers (permanent move later that year).
4. 2005‑08: Peak career at Blackburn, earning England U21 call‑ups and being named in the PFA Team of the Year.
5. 2008: Signed by Tottenham Hotspur for a reported £15 million.
6. 2010‑11: Loaned to Birmingham City and later West Ham United.
7. 2012‑13: Loaned to FC Rostov in Russia.
8. 2014: Retired from professional football at age 30 due to persistent injuries and loss of passion.
9. 2014‑present: Private life, business ventures (Sala Group), occasional social media presence.

What Is Known and What Remains Unclear

The Context Behind His Early Retirement

David Bentley is often cited as a cautionary tale in English football — a prodigiously talented winger whose career stalled after a big transfer and recurring injuries. His decision to retire at 30, coupled with his ironic self‑branding on Instagram, makes him a unique figure in the “where are they now” category. Lacking formal post‑football media roles, he has deliberately avoided the limelight, contributing to the relative mystery around his personal life and finances.

For more stories of players who stepped away early, see Where are they now? Retired Premier League stars.

Sources and Quotes

“David Michael Bentley (born 27 August 1984) is an English former professional footballer.”

Wikipedia

“England Under-21 striker David Bentley featured in Arsenal’s record-breaking 2003/04 Premiership title campaign.”

Arsenal FC

“Date of birth/Age: 27/08/1984 (41) · Citizenship: England · Position: Right Midfield.”

Transfermarkt

Summary: What is David Bentley doing now?

David Bentley left professional football in 2014 and has not returned. He co‑owns bars and restaurants in Marbella and Gibraltar through the Sala Group, maintains a humorous Instagram presence, and is raising four children. His net worth is not public, but his business activities suggest he is financially comfortable. For a look at other footballers who left the game early, read our article on Where are they now? Retired Premier League stars.

Frequently Asked Questions