Gervinho, 31, left AS Roma in 2016 for Chinese Super League side Hebei China Fortune as he entered the peak of his professional career, having enjoyed an incredible three seasons in Serie A.
The African star picked up a staggering £165,000-a-week after his €18 million transfer but in an interview with The Sun, he revealed the extent of the fortune; "I earn just under £130,000 net just for scoring.
"And, on top of that, I get around £50,000 for every match I play. In Europe, it is inconceivable — even at Real Madrid."
This brought a wave of criticism, claiming the player threw away his professional aspirations due to greed provided by the Far-East.
However, while Gervinho struggled with injuries during his spell in China, he returned to Italy with newly promoted side Parma and his performances, more notably his 70-yard solo goal has quickly ended any debate that the former Arsenal forward has nothing left to give.
— Mario (@MMLe0) September 22, 2018
However, amidst his return to Europe, the 82-time capped Elephants star revealed how his time within his formative years moulded him for success at the highest level.
"When I grew up I had to play without boots. In Ivory Coast it's very hard to have normal shoes, so just imagine football boots – they were considered a true luxury," the 2015 Afcon champion told The Guardian.
"In the academy where I grew up there were only players with no shoes like me and when I went back a few years ago I played with no shoes next to them. But in that academy, it became a philosophy...
"They tell the kids: ‘You play with no shoes on, so you learn how to better control the ball. When you have shoes it will be much easier and you’ll become champions.’ And after many years, after reaching some milestones, you finally get those boots. Joy after suffering, always with a smile. Unforgettable.
"I was lucky to go on to have a good life, thanks to my passion. I played in the club of my dreams, Arsenal. I won a league title and a French Cup. I brought the Africa Cup to the people of my country and felt like a hero."