The feud between Real Madrid's Arda Guler and Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai has continued off th...

The feud between Real Madrid's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/184826" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/184826">Arda Guler</a> and Liverpool's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/93042" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/93042">Dominik Szoboszlai</a> has continued off the pitch following their clash in the Nations League on Sunday.A day after scoring to help Turkey progress in the Nations League with a 6-1 aggregate win, Guler called Szoboszlai "a joke" after the Hungary star's reaction to his "shhh' gesture during the game.Szoboszlai commented "1088" to an Instagram post showing Guler's "shhh" gesture, a reference to the number of minutes that the Turkey midfielder has played for Real Madrid this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Guler replied Monday on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/ardaguler/">Instagram</a>, saying: "This guy is a joke. Isn't six goals enough to shut you up?"Szoboszlai has played a significant role for Liverpool this season, scoring five goals in 22 games for the Premier League leaders. Meanwhile, Guler has struggled at Madrid, with 21 of his 31 appearances coming as a substitute this season.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - MARCH 23: Dominik Szoboszlai of Hungary challenges Arda Guler of Türkiye during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A/B Play-offs Second Leg match between Hungary and Türkiye at Puskas Arena on March 23, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.

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Guler continues row with Szoboszlai: 'This guy is a joke'

And then there were eight. The Champions League field has been whittled down once again after the...

And then there were eight. The Champions League field has been whittled down once again after the round of 16 came to an exciting conclusion Wednesday. Below, a collection of theScore's soccer editors review the last-16 action, providing one major takeaway from each of the fixtures.<h3>Yamal, Raphinha dazzle for Barca</h3>Barcelona beat Benfica 4-1 on aggregate<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/cropped_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> JOSEP LAGO / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Raphinha and Lamine Yamal assisted each other's goals in the 3-1 win over Benfica on Tuesday, once again proving their connection is as smooth as any in European competition. It's not that they simply look for one another but that their sweeping style of play - which leans heavily on dribbling and finding pockets of space - culminates in a cross or pass through the penalty area that lands in their path. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Barcelona could just as easily thump the ball at Robert Lewandowski and hope he converts from range, but head coach Hansi Flick instead asks his talented wingers to make inverted runs into dangerous areas, and they end profiting off each other's trickery. - Anthony Lopopolo<h3>Steady Inter a serious threat</h3>Inter Milan beat Feyenoord 4-1 on aggregateSimone Inzaghi's team is arguably the least glamorous of the title contenders remaining in the Champions League. But Inter might just be the most dangerous. They lack the mystique of Real Madrid, the youthful exuberance of Barcelona, or the slick interconnected passing of PSG. But what they have, in abundance, is veteran experience, solidity, and robustness.The Serie A leaders never looked under any threat in their businesslike last-16 dismissal of Feyenoord. They've conceded only two goals in the entire tournament - the best defensive record thus far - and, with Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, have genuine game-breakers up front. A very similar recipe got them within touching distance of the trophy two years ago. It could carry them all the way this time. - Gianluca Nesci<h3>PSG finally put all the pieces together</h3>PSG beat Liverpool 4-1 on penalties (1-1 on aggregate)<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/cropped_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Ousmane Dembele and PSG's forwards - along with a dazzling midfield - get most of the attention, but the French club doesn't reach the quarterfinals without shutting down Liverpool's potent attack over two legs. Liverpool besieged PSG's defense for large portions of Tuesday's second leg after Dembele's early goal brought the visitors level on aggregate. But Liverpool's breakthrough moment never came, and PSG went on to prevail after Gianluigi Donnarumma saved a pair of penalties.PSG's defensive heroics at Anfield got them to the shootout in the first place. Willian Pacho was a standout performer Tuesday, producing key interceptions, blocks, and clearances. Nuno Mendes also produced critical interventions that were vital in keeping PSG alive in the tournament they're so desperate to win. - Gordon Brunt<h3>Leverkusen crumble against Bayern</h3>Bayern Munich beat Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 on aggregateLeverkusen hadn't lost any of their previous six matches against Bayern Munich. But that was in domestic competition. "The Champions League is a bit more emotional," Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3232457" href="https://thescore.com/news/3232457">pointed out</a> before the teams' last-16 tie. "Emotional control is most important. Five bad minutes, and you're gone."Gone they are after losing handily to their German rivals for exactly those reasons. Leverkusen conceded 9 minutes into the first leg and finished the game down to 10 men. Armed with a 3-0 aggregate lead, Bayern struck another two goals while restricting space for Leverkusen to attack. Alonso's side didn't have a shot on target until the 65th minute, by which point the tie was long gone. - Lopopolo<h3>Guirassy keeps swinging for Dortmund</h3>Borussia Dortmund beat Lille 3-2 on aggregate<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/cropped_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> picture alliance / picture alliance / Getty</figcaption></figure>Serhou Guirassy has been the only constant in Borussia Dortmund's seesaw of a season, and his skillful efforts in Wednesday's 2-1 win over Lille ensured his side's continued progress in the Champions League.Just as everything seemed to go wrong - a pair of goal-line clearances and a couple of unbelievable point-blank saves unnerved Dortmund in the first half - Guirassy won the penalty that leveled the tie and assisted the goal that won it. He now has 14 goal involvements in the Champions League, the joint-most by an African player in a single season. Guirassy hasn't gone more than two games without having some material impact on the score line, showing the kind of consistency Dortmund have lacked in a year in which they've reached the Champions League quarterfinals while toiling in 10th place in the Bundesliga. - Lopopolo<h3>Asensio adds extra element for Villa</h3>Aston Villa beat Club Brugge 6-1 on aggregateWhen January transfers work as intended, they provide a critical midseason boost that can ignite a team and push it over the top. Marco Asensio's move to Aston Villa is a prime example. The Spaniard, who arrived in Birmingham on loan from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day of the January window, was largely a non-factor in the French capital for the first half of the campaign, scoring two league goals in limited minutes.But his quality has never been in doubt, and he's reminding anyone who might have forgotten about that. The 29-year-old scored twice in Wednesday's second-leg win over Club Brugge, bringing his tally to seven goals in eight games since joining Aston Villa. Asensio, a three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, can bring crucial big-game experience to a club that will now feature in its first European Cup quarterfinal in 42 years. Together with manager Unai Emery, another continental expert, Villa have every chance to continue their unlikely run. To do so, they'll need to defeat none other than PSG, the squad that jettisoned Asensio, in the next round. - Nesci<h3>Arsenal capitalize on rare breather</h3>Arsenal beat PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/cropped_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</figcaption></figure>Arsenal's last-16 affair with PSV Eindhoven played out perfectly for Mikel Arteta. With a quarterfinal berth virtually sealed after a ruthless 7-1 first-leg win last week, the Gunners coach jumped at a rare opportunity to rotate his bruised and battered squad Wednesday. Seldom-used loanee Raheem Sterling delivered a solid first-half display in a makeshift attack that also saw left-back Kieran Tierney start on the wing and midfielder Mikel Merino line up as the No. 9 through the middle.Arsenal padded their lead to progress with a 9-3 win on aggregate before a difficult quarterfinal test against holders and 15-time winners Real Madrid. But Arsenal's Champions League adventure could get a huge boost by April with Gabriel Martinelli at full strength and Bukayo Saka's expected return. Their Premier League title push is all but over, but don't discount an Arsenal side that could put all their eggs in the Champions League basket. - Brunt<h3>Real Madrid always find a way</h3>Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid 4-2 on penalties (2-2 on aggregate)As Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid approached penalties, only one team seemed like the clear winner. Not because they dominated or deserved to go through, but because they have always come out on top. Madrid, of course, obliged, beating Atletico in a shootout for the sixth time in six attempts. An unlucky double touch annulled Julian Alvarez's penalty, opening up the win for Madrid and serving up an excruciating reminder of their historical supremacy over Atletico.It really felt different when Conor Gallagher leveled the tie on aggregate just a minute into the second leg. Atletico often defended with six at the back but still produced the lion's share of chances, forcing Madrid shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois into seven saves. Even Vinicius Junior missed a penalty, which he had done only twice before in his pro career and never before for Madrid. There wasn't much more Atletico could do. But the Champions League is a funny tournament. Sometimes only the tiniest margins count. And Madrid live in those margins. - Lopopolo

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Key thoughts and analysis from Champions League round of 16

Sir Jim Ratcliffe spoke out against past mistakes made by Manchester United and defended controve...

Sir Jim Ratcliffe spoke out against past mistakes made by Manchester United and defended controversial cost-cutting decisions in a candid interview one day after fans protested against the club's ownership.The British billionaire, who co-owns the team after his company Ineos purchased a 28.94% stake last year, said some at Manchester United are "overpaid" and cited a handful of players who were "inherited," such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/187791" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/187791">Rasmus Hojlund</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Andre Onana</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Jadon Sancho</a>.He admitted his frustration that United are still committed to paying instalments of transfer fees for the trio and other under-performing players, some of whom aren't even at the club right now.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If you look at the players we are buying this summer, that we didn't buy, we're buying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/166123" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/166123">Antony</a>, we're buying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/17430" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/17430">Casemiro</a>, we're buying Onana, we're buying Hojlund, we're buying Sancho," Ratcliffe said, according to the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c7571gng06wo">BBC Sport's Dan Roan</a>. "These are all things from the past, whether we like it or not, we've inherited those things and have to sort that out."He continued: "For Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea (on loan), and we pay half his wages, we're paying £17 million to buy him in the summer."Antony, who's on loan at Real Betis, is perhaps the most polarizing of the players Ratcliffe highlighted. The Brazilian struggled after joining for €100 million from Ajax in 2022, scoring just 12 goals in 96 games.When asked if he thought the players in question were inadequate, Ratcliffe said: "Some are not good enough and some probably are overpaid, but for us to mold the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time."We've got this period of transformation where we move from the past to the future."<h3>Unapologetic over staff cuts</h3>There's been an overhaul behind the scenes in recent months, which has resulted in staff reductions due to financial reasons. But Ratcliffe was unapologetic over decisions to make 450 of the club's 1,140-person staff redundant.Ratcliffe highlighted one dismissal in particular, telling <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/da014943-e702-4f1e-b84a-da2012e6b05e?shareToken=40ffa19ad1102c9094840b48b1808fab">The Times' Matt Lawton</a>: "We found out we even had a body language consultant on £175,000 a year."Even legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson wasn't safe from the cost-cutting measures after his £2-million consultancy contract was ended."(Ferguson was) maybe a little bit grumpy at the beginning, but he got it, and he came back three days later, after talking to his son, and said, 'Fine, I'm going to step away from it. My decision.' I think it reflects really well on Alex because he put the club before himself."The move was widely criticized. It was one of a number of stories that have come to light in recent months about the club's quest to become financially viable.Job cuts are part of the reason why thousands of United supporters protested against the club's ownership, including the Glazer family, before Sunday's draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford. Rising ticket prices and the team's poor performances this season were other reasons for the pre-arranged demonstration.But Ratcliffe defended all of the decisions as necessary for the club to overcome past mistakes."I know it's unpopular, and this period of change is uncomfortable for people, and some of the decisions we have to make are unpleasant," he told BBC's Roan."But they are necessary to put Manchester United back on to a stable footing. If people want to see Manchester United winning trophies again, then we have do all this stuff."Ratcliffe added: "Manchester United would have run out of cash by the end of this year - by the end of 2025 - after having me put $300 million (£232.72 million) in and if we buy no new players in the summer."We are in the process of change, and it's an uncomfortable period and disruptive, and I do feel sympathy with the fans."The simple answer is the club runs out of money at Christmas if we don't do those things."Manchester United are likely to experience further financial inconveniences this season for failing to qualify for any European competition next season. The club sits 14th in the Premier League with 10 games remaining.Ratcliffe added that he thinks Ruben Amorim, who was hired after Erik ten Hag was dismissed earlier this season, is doing a "really good job" despite facing difficult circumstances and that the Portuguese coach will in charge "for a long time."

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 10: Rasmus Hojlund, Antony of Manchester United arrives ahead of the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Leicester City FC at Old Trafford on November 10, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Ratcliffe laments 'overpaid,' inadequate Man Utd players in candid interview

The World Cup could be set to expand again.  FIFA says it'll review a proposal to increase the nu...

The World Cup could be set to expand again.FIFA says it'll review a proposal to increase the number of nations competing at the 2030 World Cup from 48 to 64 teams as a one-off to mark the tournament's centenary."A proposal to analyze a 64-team FIFA World Cup to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup in 2030 was spontaneously raised by a FIFA Council member in the 'miscellaneous' agenda item near the end of the FIFA Council meeting held on March 5, 2025," a FIFA spokesperson told <a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/fifa-consider-one-off-expansion-64-teams-2030-world-cup-nyt-2025-03-06/">Reuters</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"The idea was acknowledged as FIFA has a duty to analyze any proposal from one of its council members."The 2030 World Cup will be primarily played in Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. However, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, where the tournament's first edition was staged 100 years ago, will host three games.The marquee competition already expanded from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.A delegate from Uruguay, Ignacio Alonso, submitted the proposal, which left some FIFA delegates in "stunned silence," according to a report from <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/world/europe/fifa-world-cup-64-teams.html">The Athletic</a>.One unidentified football official hoped the "maddening" proposal would be "rejected as soon as possible," reports <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/acbe5dc4-47dc-4974-b85f-220d5281717c?shareToken=ca65b097d49610a448d3774d80c3f40a">Martyn Ziegler of The Times</a>.If successful, expanding to 64 teams would result in at least 128 matches at the 2030 World Cup. The 2022 World Cup had 64 contests, and the 2026 tourney will have 104 games.There are also concerns about the environmental impact and possible logistical challenges that an expanded tournament will have.FIFA president Gianni Infantino "acknowledged the proposal and said it should be analyzed more closely," The Athletic added.

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - DECEMBER 18: Lionel Messi of Argentina gestures before receiving the FIFA World Cup trophy from FIFA President Gianni Infantino as Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar looks on during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.

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FIFA considering proposal to expand 2030 World Cup to 64 teams

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi admitted that he didn't always enjoy playing for Paris Saint-Germai...

Inter Miami star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> admitted that he didn't always enjoy playing for Paris Saint-Germain, saying he "wasn't happy on a daily basis" during his two-year spell in the French capital."Coming to play for Inter Miami was an opportunity, and the way things developed during my last years in Paris, although it was a decision that I had to make on the go because I had to leave Barcelona, those two years were not enjoyable for me," Messi said in a recent interview with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VC-lJrNaQH4&amp;t=85s">Apple Music's Zane Lowe</a>."I wasn't happy on a daily basis, with the trainings, the matches. I had a hard time adapting to all that. I felt called to come to Inter (Miami) because it's a club that's growing, very new, with few years as a club."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Messi spent 21 years with Barcelona, but financial complications with the club led to his surprising departure for PSG on a free transfer in 2021. There, he compiled 32 goals and 35 assists in 76 appearances, and the club won Ligue 1 during both of his seasons in France's top flight.Messi left PSG following the 2023 season to join MLS side Inter Miami, where he made an instant impact by helping the club win the Leagues Cup.Messi said in June 2023 that there was a "fracture" in his relationship with PSG fans. His former teammate Neymar also said that the Argentine "lived through hell" during their time together in France.Last year, PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi accused Messi of lacking "respect" for the club after he departed.

PARIS, FRANCE - APRIL 02: Lionel Messi of PSG during the Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique Lyon at Parc des Princes on April 02, 2023 in Paris, France.

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Messi 'wasn't happy on a daily basis' at PSG

Erling Haaland was left out of Manchester City's squad for Sunday's match against Liverpool due t...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> was left out of Manchester City's squad for Sunday's match against Liverpool due to a lingering knee injury.Manchester City were beaten 2-0 by the Premier League leaders at the Etihad Stadium.The Norwegian striker got hurt during City's 4-0 victory over Newcastle United last weekend.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The knee issue also kept Haaland out of Manchester City's loss at Real Madrid in the Champions League last Wednesday even though he was named to the bench.The 24-year-old has 19 goals in 25 Premier League games this season.He trails Mohamed Salah, who scored in Sunday's match, by six goals in the race for the Golden Boot.

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 19: Erling Haaland of Manchester City during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Manchester City at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 19, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

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Man City's Haaland misses loss vs. Liverpool due to lingering knee issue

Coach Mikel Arteta was "very, very angry" after Arsenal's latest setback, saying his squad played...

Coach Mikel Arteta was "very, very angry" after Arsenal's latest setback, saying his squad played below standard in a 1-0 defeat against West Ham United that damaged the club's title hopes."Even though the (possession) that we had and 20 shots, I never felt that we were at the standard and the level that we needed," the Spaniard said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43967303/arsenal-nowhere-level-win-premier-league-mikel-arteta-loss">ESPN's James Olley</a>. "First of all, to have more threat and then not to allow them to run, because we lost a lot of balls that we allowed West Ham to run in very dangerous positions."We have to be (angry). I hope we are very much because we didn't hit the levels today and I am very much responsible of that so I am very, very angry."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/85171" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/85171">Jarrod Bowen</a> broke the deadlock with the eventual winning goal late in the first half. Arsenal struggled with just two shots on target in the contest and were reduced to 10 men in the 73rd minute after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192369" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192369">Myles Lewis-Skelly</a> was sent off for a straight red card.Despite being low on forwards due to multiple injuries, Arteta refused to blame the team's shortcomings on Arsenal's lack of attacking options."I refuse that completely because I am talking about the standards of the players and the team that we played today, me included," he said."And that was nowhere near the levels that we have to hit to have the opportunity to win a Premier League. Today no. We were very consistent, yes, but football is about what you do today and today, nowhere near."Saturday's defeat could prove even more costly if Liverpool, the Premier League leaders, get a positive result against Manchester City. The Reds have a game in hand and lead second-placed Arsenal by eight points heading into Sunday's showdown.Arteta conceded that the title race was out of Arsenal's hands and that he was "really, really annoyed" that the Gunners wasted another opportunity to keep pace with Liverpool.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, Mikel Merino of Arsenal and Jean-Clair Todibo of West Ham United react during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and West Ham United FC at Emirates Stadium on February 22, 2025 in London, England.

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Arteta 'very, very angry' after toothless Arsenal fall to West Ham

Toronto FC completed the signing of defender Zane Monlouis from Arsenal, the Major League Soccer ...

Toronto FC completed the signing of defender Zane Monlouis from Arsenal, the Major League Soccer club announced Saturday.The center-back joins Toronto on a two-year contract through the 2026 season. The deal includes options to extend his stay further until 2027 and 2028."At just 21 years old, he has already gained a variety of playing experience in the U.K.," Toronto FC general manager Jason Hernandez said.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"His skill set both on and off the ball will be an asset to our defense, and we look forward to his continued growth and integration with our first team."Monlouis made over 100 combined appearances for Arsenal’s Under-18, Under-21, and Under-23 teams. He had a short loan spell with English third-tier club Reading last season."These years have been some of the best of my life," Monlouis said of his 13 years at Arsenal, according to Gunners youth reporter <a href="https://x.com/jeorgebird/status/1893305665415766319">Jeorge Bird</a>.He added, "With saying that, I believe it is my time to move on, and I am excited for what the future holds for me."

LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 25: Zane Monlouis of Arsenal during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on October 25, 2024 in London Colney, England.

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Toronto FC sign defender Monlouis from Arsenal

Liverpool's quadruple hopes ended in dramatic fashion Sunday.  The Premier League leaders were kn...

Liverpool's quadruple hopes ended in dramatic fashion Sunday.The Premier League leaders were knocked out of the FA Cup in the fourth round after losing 1-0 to Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle.A second-half penalty by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/161063" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/161063">Ryan Hardie</a> proved decisive in helping the last-place Championship club pull off one of the biggest upsets in the history of the tournament.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Arne Slot left several of Liverpool's stars off the squad for Sunday's away trip, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/22556" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/22556">Virgil van Dijk</a>, making 10 changes from the team that beat Tottenham in the League Cup semifinals earlier in the week."We were not having a very good day. A result like this is the outcome," said Slot, who suffered just his fourth defeat since replacing Jurgen Klopp on the Liverpool bench. "It hurts everyone that is involved with Liverpool - fans, me players. We were all wanting to be in this competition for as long as possible and when you go out in the second possible game, that's a setback."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/101948" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/101948">Luis Diaz</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/85175" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/85175">Diogo Jota</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/68002" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/68002">Federico Chiesa</a> struggled to create chances in attack, while Liverpool suffered an early defensive blow in the first half with the loss of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/49610" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/49610">Joe Gomez</a> to injury.The two sides were level coming out of halftime before Plymouth were awarded a penalty in the 53rd minute after Harvey Elliott's raised arm made contact with the ball.Hardie's penalty conversion triggered a sense of urgency among the visitors.Liverpool pressed for an equalizer late but were denied by a pair of impressive saves by Plymouth goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/86040" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/86040">Conor Hazard</a> late in the contest.Hazard denied Jota's volley from outside the box with a diving effort before pulling off an even more impressive save in injury time when he tipped Darwin Nunez's close-range header over the crossbar.Plymouth went on to hold onto their lead to secure the win for Miron Muslic, who recently replaced Wayne Rooney as coach of the Pilgrims."I'm speechless, and normally they tell me I'm eloquent! It's a big moment," Muslic said. "It's a magical day for us. I told the lads in the locker room to enjoy it."Meanwhile, Liverpool will now shift focus to their efforts in the Premier League, Champions League, and the League Cup final next month against Newcastle United."I can't say the boys didn't fight, both teams barely created a chance and then it was a penalty. In a game like this, it is up to one moment. That moment was for them and they deserve it," Slot added.

PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 09: Lewis Gibson, Matthew Sorinola and Muhamed Tijani of Plymouth Argyle celebrate victory after the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Plymouth Argyle and Liverpool at Home Park on February 09, 2025 in Plymouth, England.

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Liverpool's quadruple dream ends with stunning FA Cup loss to Plymouth

Chelsea's Joao Felix joined AC Milan on loan until the end of the season, the Italian club said T...

Chelsea's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/102327" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/102327">Joao Felix</a> joined AC Milan on loan until the end of the season, the Italian club said Tuesday.The six-month loan deal is understood to be worth €5.5 million, and Milan have agreed to pay the Portuguese international's full salary, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6094003/2025/02/03/joao-felix-chelsea-loan-milan/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.Though the deal was formally announced Tuesday, Milan completed and submitted the necessary paperwork prior to Monday's transfer deadline.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The move comes less than a year into the six-year contract that Felix signed last summer when Chelsea signed him from Atletico Madrid for a reported £46.3-million fee. It was his second spell at Stamford Bridge after his loan in the second half of the 2022-23 campaign.Felix will hope for more playing time in Milan after starting just three Premier League games for the Blues this season. He primarily featured in cup competitions under Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca.He had seven goals in 20 appearances in all competitions this season.Aston Villa were also linked with Felix, but the club pursued other attacking options instead. Along with adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/93738" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/93738">Donyell Malen</a> from Borussia Dortmund and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/66886" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/66886">Marcus Rashford</a> from Manchester United during this transfer window, the club also signed Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain to help fill the void of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcqcon/players/187782" href="https://thescore.com/wcqcon/players/187782">Jhon Duran</a>'s departure to Saudi Arabia.The deal caps a whirlwind 24 hours for Milan. The Rossoneri, sitting eighth in Serie A, signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///itaci/players/94895" href="https://thescore.com/itaci/players/94895">Santiago Gimenez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/189710" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/189710">Warren Bondo</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/95117" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/95117">Riccardo Sottil</a> on transfer deadline day while saying goodbye to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/13168" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/13168">Alvaro Morata</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///itaci/players/61376" href="https://thescore.com/itaci/players/61376">Ismael Bennacer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///itaci/players/99445" href="https://thescore.com/itaci/players/99445">Noah Okafor</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///itaci/players/41597" href="https://thescore.com/itaci/players/41597">Davide Calabria</a>.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Joao Felix of Chelsea leaves the tunnel for a pitch inspection, while holding a match ball prior to the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and AFC Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on January 14, 2025 in London, England.

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Chelsea's Joao Felix completes loan move to AC Milan 

Arsenal took an early lead in Sunday's 5-1 win over Manchester City after Manuel Akanji's mistake...

Arsenal took an early lead in Sunday's 5-1 win over Manchester City after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/60044" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/60044">Manuel Akanji</a>'s mistake led to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/34831" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/34831">Martin Odegaard</a> opening the scoring at the Emirates Stadium.After Akanji's errant pass deep in City's half, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/86595" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/86595">Kai Havertz</a> was sent into the box, where he found Odegaard for the first goal less than two minutes into the match.(Available to view in U.S. only)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ARSENAL OPEN THE SCORING 105 SECONDS IN. IT'S MARTIN ODEGAARD. 📺 Peacock | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/INCm4EYVyI">pic.twitter.com/INCm4EYVyI</a>— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1886091326069809242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>(Available to view in Canada only)<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Martin Odegaard SCORES!! ⚽ 1-0 Arsenal FC vs Manchester City WATCH EVERY GOAL 👉 <a href="https://t.co/2w98QqADfX">https://t.co/2w98QqADfX</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PremierLeague?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PremierLeague</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xgbfi7xlOe">pic.twitter.com/Xgbfi7xlOe</a>— FuboCanada 🇨🇦 (@fuboTVCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/fuboTVCanada/status/1886091505518977172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>It's the second game in a row in which City conceded in the opening three minutes. Chelsea scored three minutes into their game against City last weekend but lost the match 3-1.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> brought Manchester City level in the 55th minute with his 19th Premier League goal of the season.But Arsenal retook the lead a minute later thanks to another costly giveaway. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49894" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49894">Thomas Partey</a> intercepted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90747" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90747">Phil Foden</a>'s pass and fired a long-range shot that deflected off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/14100" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/14100">John Stones</a> and into the net.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192369" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192369">Myles Lewis-Skelly</a> scored in the 63rd minute before goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/86595" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/86595">Kai Havertz</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/190386" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/190386">Ethan Nwaneri</a> helped seal three points.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 02: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal scores his team's first goal whilst under pressure from John Stones of Manchester City as Stefan Ortega of Manchester City fails to make a save during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England.

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Watch: Akanji's brutal mistake gifts Arsenal easy goal

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney advised Marcus Rashford that he needs to "leave" the club a...

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney advised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/66886" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/66886">Marcus Rashford</a> that he needs to "leave" the club after being exiled by coach Ruben Amorim."I've spoken to Marcus a couple of times, and I've given him my thoughts and my opinion," Rooney said on The Overlap, courtesy of <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43625300/man-united-legend-wayne-rooney-marcus-rashford-needs-leave">ESPN</a>."I said you need to leave the football club because whatever is going on in his life and whatever is going on at Manchester United, he's not the same. It's not him.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"So I said for him, to have a fresh start, he needs to leave the club. The fact that your manager is coming out and saying that you are not training right is crazy."With Marcus, it's been going on for two years, and it's sad. It's really sad."Rashford hasn't played since December and said he was ready for a "new challenge" after being dropped for Manchester United's win over rivals Manchester City.The 27-year-old has missed 11 games in total. Amorim said last weekend that he would play the club's 63-year-old goalkeeping coach over Rashford after questioning the forward's commitment.Rashford has been linked with moves to AC Milan and Barcelona in January, but he has yet to secure a transfer before the window closes Monday.Rooney, Manchester United's all-time leading scorer and Rashford's teammate from 2015-17, added: "I went into Carrington (United's training ground) on Sunday to take my kids to game day, and Marcus was out on the training pitch with the fitness coach."But he was right over towards where the parents were walking past for the kids' games. I looked at him, thinking how embarrassing it must be for him as parents walk past."I was surprised when (Rashford's training issues) started over two years ago, but now I'm not."

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford during a training session at the Trafford Training Centre, Carrington, Manchester. Picture date: Wednesday January 29, 2025.

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Man Utd legend Rooney says Rashford needs to leave

Manchester United winger Antony completed his loan move to Real Betis on Saturday.  Antony - the ...

Manchester United winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166123" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166123">Antony</a> completed his loan move to Real Betis on Saturday.Antony - the second-most expensive signing in United's history - joined Betis until the end of the season. The agreement doesn't include an option for the Spanish side to make the move permanent when the deal expires in June.Real Betis will pay 84% of the Brazilian's wages, plus potential bonuses depending on performances, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1882786186131128611">transfer insider Fabrizio Romano</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Offloading Antony clears an estimated £1.5 million from Manchester United's wage bill for the remainder of the campaign, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6072863/2025/01/24/antony-manchester-united-transfer-loan/?partner=slack&amp;smid=sl-share">The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell</a>. Antony currently earns £105,000 per week on a contract that lasts until 2027.After weeks of speculation, the Red Devils permitted him to go to Spain to undergo a medical at Real Betis before officially joining the team coached by former Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini.Antony's appearance in last weekend's defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion could end up being his last for United, potentially bringing an end to his difficult spell at the club after joining from Ajax for €100 million in 2022.The 24-year-old went from 23 Premier League starts in his first campaign to 15 last season.Antony hasn't started a league match this term. His three starts this season were in League Cup and Europa League matches.He has 12 goals in 96 games in all competitions.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 16: Antony of Manchester United reacts after a missed chance during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Southampton FC at Old Trafford on January 16, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Man Utd flop Antony joins Real Betis on loan until end of season

The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. It's a time to make transformative addition...

The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. It's a time to make transformative additions that can revive a struggling team or put trophy-chasing sides over the top. It's also a time when expensive, crippling mistakes are made. For every brilliant deal and shrewd piece of business, there are dozens of signings that go bust for one reason or another - some in spectacular fashion.This week, while the wheeling and dealing is in full swing, we're ranking the 30 worst signings in soccer history. Compiled by theScore's soccer editors, our list features prototypical high-priced flops and some mystifying moves that ruined careers, damaged reputations, and set clubs back several years. The three-part series concludes below with the 10 most egregious transfers ever.Review the entire series:<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Part I</th>
<th>Part II</th>
<th>Part III</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161825" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161825">30-21</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161826" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161826">20-11</a></td>
<td>10-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>10. Paul Pogba (Manchester United)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/cropped_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/w220xh124_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/w320xh180_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/w640xh360_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/w768xh432_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/387730/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1190519167.jpg?ts=1577464085 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Martin Rickett - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Juventus for €105 million in 2016Manchester United paid a record fee to re-sign a player they had let go for nothing. That alone was difficult enough to swallow. Pogba left the club in 2012 for Juventus and won four championships in Italy. But he ultimately returned to England, feeling he had unfinished business there. He most certainly failed to accomplish whatever he sought to do. Pogba became a lightning rod for criticism and a scapegoat for United's failures. He was also injured for large stretches of his six seasons there. Pogba rarely hit the pitch for United with the vigor he showed for France. - Anthony Lopopolo<h3>9. Nicolas Pepe (Arsenal)</h3>Signed from Lille for €80 million in 2019"Arsenal spent a lot of money on me, and I paid the price for it," Pepe <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5934816/2024/11/25/nicolas-pepe-interview-arsenal-emery-villarreal/">said</a> in November about how he was harshly judged during his time in English football. Arsenal ripped up Pepe's contract one year early following a four-season spell that featured a few highlight-reel moments and little more. The staggeringly inconsistent winger scored 16 times and provided nine assists over 80 Premier League appearances, and he was rumored to be a disruptive presence in the squad. The transfer would've been more damaging for Arsenal without the timely emergence of academy graduate Bukayo Saka, but it was still an abject failure; Pepe remains the second-most expensive player in Arsenal history. - Daniel Rouse<h3>8. Kaka (Real Madrid)</h3>Signed from AC Milan for €67 million in 2009For a little while, Kaka was the most expensive player in the world before Cristiano Ronaldo joined him at Real Madrid. And rightly so. The Brazilian playmaker was an elite talent for years at AC Milan, becoming the last player to win the Ballon d'Or in 2007 before Ronaldo and Lionel Messi dominated the award for the next decade. Yet, when he changed allegiances, his best years were clearly behind him, as injuries and inconsistency plagued his Madrid career. After losing his place to Mesut Ozil, Madrid sent Kaka back to Milan four years later for a huge loss on the initial transfer. - Gordon Brunt<h3>7. Neymar (Al-Hilal)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/cropped_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755040/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182914650.jpg?ts=1731456160 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Yasser Bakhsh / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Paris Saint-Germain for €90 million in 2023Al-Hilal are too rich to care about the money they've wasted on Neymar. To the rest of us, it's truly sickening. Not only did the Saudi outfit pay €90 million to break the Brazilian's contract with PSG, but they agreed to pay him an estimated €101 million annually. But the oft-injured forward has only played seven games for Al-Hilal in one-and-a-half seasons and is currently unregistered for the Saudi Pro League. He's yet to score a league goal during his time in Saudi Arabia, which was blighted by a serious knee injury. If reports ring true and Neymar ends up leaving in January and returning to Brazil, he'll have earned €28.8 million per match, or around €472,000 for each minute he's played. - Lopopolo<h3>6. Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea)</h3>Signed from Athletic Bilbao for €80 million in 2018Arrizabalaga remains the most expensive goalkeeper of all time. While he achieved some success at Chelsea and helped them win the Europa League in 2019, he ended up on the bench more often than not and was an unused substitute during the 2021 Champions League final. Arrizabalaga is best remembered for furiously refusing to be substituted during the 2019 League Cup final, which Chelsea eventually lost in a shootout to Manchester City. Now he's on loan at Bournemouth after again failing to convince Chelsea he deserved minutes ahead of No. 1 starter Robert Sanchez. - Lopopolo<h3>5. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)</h3>Signed from Inter Milan for €113 million in 2021Lukaku heralded his return to Chelsea as the endpoint of his "long journey" home. Even though he had just won Serie A with Inter - finishing behind only Cristiano Ronaldo in scoring - Lukaku couldn't pass up the opportunity to rejoin his childhood club. But the honeymoon was over after five months. Thomas Tuchel dropped Lukaku from his squad after hearing his striker wax lyrical about returning to Inter in an unauthorized interview with Italian TV. The Belgian complained about Tuchel's tactics, and while he would play for the Blues again, his relationship with the club didn't recover. A loan move back to Inter didn't kick-start his career. He moved to Roma for one season before reuniting with former Inter coach Antonio Conte at Napoli in the summer. Chelsea spent over €100 million on Lukaku and, in return, got eight league goals and plenty of headaches. - Lopopolo<h3>4. Antoine Griezmann (Barcelona)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/cropped_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/w220xh124_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/w320xh180_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/w640xh360_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/w768xh432_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/400807/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1206470184.jpg?ts=1587145288 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Quality Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Atletico Madrid for €120 million in 2019It's not Griezmann's fault that Barcelona's recruiting department was tactically inept. They signed a left-footed playmaker with an appetite for goals despite already having the best player in the world occupying the same role in Messi. Griezmann's scoring output was decent for someone who regularly played on the left wing, away from his preferred central position where he was so lethal for Atletico Madrid. But tactics weren't the only problem. The massive financial commitment it took to sign Griezmann set the club back years, directly contributing to Messi's once unthinkable departure in 2021. Barcelona couldn't afford Messi due to the financial mess caused, in part, by matching Griezmann's release clause. Things didn't get any better after Messi's exit, and Barcelona sold Griezmann for a loss to Atletico. He, of course, has gone on to revive his career back in Madrid. - Brunt<h3>3. Ali Dia (Southampton)</h3>Free transfer from Blyth Spartans in 1996Dia is different from everybody else on this list: He wasn't a professional footballer. Somebody called Southampton's then-manager Graeme Souness and claimed to be 1995 Ballon d'Or winner George Weah, saying his cousin, Dia, would be a good signing. Dia was actually a 31-year-old university student. Then, a miracle happened. The phony footballer was brought in on trial, named on a Premier League bench against Leeds United, and brought on to replace an injured Matt Le Tissier in the 32nd minute of an official match. He lasted 53 minutes before he was hastily subbed off and never seen in the professional game again. - Rouse<h3>2. Eden Hazard (Real Madrid)</h3>Signed from Chelsea for €100 million in 2019Around 50,000 fans packed the Santiago Bernabeu to celebrate Hazard's unveiling in 2019. He told the crowd he'd been dreaming of this moment since he was a child playing in his "family's garden." Madrid went trophy-less the previous season and were hoping Hazard would lead them out of their post-Ronaldo drought. But he arrived overweight and went a year without scoring for the club. Then came the injuries. Hazard missed a total of 518 days due to injury, according to estimates from transfermarkt.com. Vinicius Junior eventually took his place, and the Belgian terminated his contract with Madrid in June 2023 after scoring just four league goals in four years. Hazard retired from football altogether three months later. - Lopopolo<h3>1. Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/cropped_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/w220xh124_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/w320xh180_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/w640xh360_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/w768xh432_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/344537/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1134734947.jpg?ts=1553271684 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Quality Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Liverpool for €160 million in 2018For the second time in less than a year, the search for Neymar's replacement was supposed to be over. Barcelona moved on quickly after Ousmane Dembele flopped, certain that Coutinho was the answer. The expensive January move to the Camp Nou was a no-brainer at the time for Coutinho, who didn't win anything in six seasons with Liverpool. Almost a decade later, the transfer is viewed as a watershed moment that triggered the drastic shift in fortunes for both clubs. While Liverpool went on to enjoy one of the most successful periods in club history, Barca started to go into a tailspin as Coutinho struggled to live up to his huge price tag. They won La Liga in his first full season, but the primary goal to reconquer Europa fell short. Barcelona loaned him to Bayern Munich shortly after, only to have Coutinho play a direct role in eliminating them from the Champions League while he was still on their payroll; he scored twice for Bayern in the infamous 8-2 drubbing in 2020 that remains one of Barca's most humiliating losses of all time. Off the pitch, Coutinho was a huge financial burden who was unsellable due to his gargantuan wages. It was a truly terrible transfer from all angles. - BruntWhat are the worst deals your favorite club has ever made? Let us know in the comments below!

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The 10 worst transfers in soccer history, ranked

The supersized Champions League resumed this week, with all 36 teams back in action over 48 frene...

The supersized Champions League resumed this week, with all 36 teams back in action over 48 frenetic hours. Below, theScore's soccer editors reflect on Matchday 7, the penultimate set of games in the opening round of Europe's premier club competition.<h3>Key takeaway from Matchday 7 📝</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/cropped_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/w220xh124_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/w320xh180_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/w640xh360_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/w768xh432_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766755/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2195355879.jpg?ts=1737592376 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mike Hewitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Daniel Rouse: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia might be wondering why Paris Saint-Germain bought him at all. The €70-million January signing watched from the stands as Bradley Barcola starred in Wednesday's 4-2 win over Manchester City. The 22-year-old stormed down the left flank before setting up Ousmane Dembele's goal, scored himself with a controlled finish into the bottom corner, and completed over 95% of his passes despite his attacking role. Kvaratskhelia and Barcola could give Luis Enrique a similar headache to the one that's troubled Carlo Ancelotti while he's dealt with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior at Real Madrid, and most PSG fans will be asking the same question: Why didn't the club invest that money on a striker instead?Gordon Brunt: In classic Real Madrid fashion, they left it late to shine in the Champions League. They're finally playing like the powerhouse that everyone expected them to be before the season. Madrid continued the healing process after their recent loss to Barcelona by beating Red Bull Salzburg 5-1, jumping to 16th in the Champions League table. They've now outscored opponents 14-4 in three straight wins following the heavy defeat in the Super Cup final. But the turnaround started long before with an eight-game unbeaten run at the end of 2024. Even more encouraging now are the performances of Madrid's biggest stars. Kylian Mbappe has overcome an excruciatingly slow start, while Jude Bellingham is back to his best. Vinicius Junior scored a late brace to match Rodrygo, who stayed hot with two of his own in the first half Wednesday. It should go without saying, but all of the top Champions League teams will be desperate to avoid Carlo Ancelotti's "midtable" side in the next round.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Gianluca Nesci: The new tournament format is really starting to hit its stride, and it'll result in some spectacular matchups in the early knockout stages - including the inaugural playoff round - that wouldn't have arrived until the end of the tournament under the old system. That's an unequivocal win for UEFA. In a scheduling move akin to a major international competition, Matchday 8 will see all 36 teams play their final league phase games at the same time. That has the potential to be pure, unfiltered chaos. With several overachieving teams forcing perennial contenders like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City down the pecking order, this could end up working out even better than the governing body could've possibly expected. Once the dust settles, the bracket for the round of 16 (and beyond) will be fascinating. We don't say this very often - for good reason - but: Well done, UEFA. The Champions League feels alive again.<h3>This week's crisis club 😬</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/cropped_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766574/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194577734.jpg?ts=1737497661 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> ALBERTO PIZZOLI / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: Manchester City. It'll take more than signing defenders Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis, as well as the anticipated arrival of attacker Omar Marmoush, to fix this mess. The cracks in Manchester City's midfield are still glaring and transfers aren't a natural antidote for the fear and indecision blighting the squad. City are playing more vertically than at any point of Pep Guardiola's reign because trust in the hallmarks of his approach - passing, patience, control - is gone. Even if 25th-placed City somehow emerge from the league phase and playoffs, on this form, it'd only delay an inevitable flop in one of the early knockout rounds.Brunt: Benfica. Manager Bruno Lage's dramatic postgame tirade said it all. Instead of denying Barcelona an automatic last-16 berth, his Benfica squad damaged its own Champions League aspirations in one of the most painful ways imaginable. The team led by two goals at two different times Tuesday. But it still wasn't enough, as the visitors overcame Benfica's strong start and embarked on a memorable comeback after scoring three second-half goals to win 5-4 and qualify for the next round. It was a collapse worthy of the tongue-lashing that Lage delivered after his team failed to win for the fourth time in five games. The task doesn't get any easier for 21st-placed Benfica, who visit Juventus in their final game of the opening stage.Nesci: Borussia Dortmund. A blown lead and loss to lowly Bologna on Tuesday - Dortmund's fourth consecutive defeat in all competitions - cost Nuri Sahin his job. Worse yet, Erik ten Hag is being touted as a potential replacement. BVB are tumbling down the Champions League table and sit 10th in the Bundesliga, a full 20 points adrift of the top spot. The club has been in steady decline since Jurgen Klopp departed in 2015, with seven different coaches since then. Only one in that time, Lucien Favre, stayed for longer than two years (Edin Terzic had two separate spells on the touchline). Dortmund, once adept at shrewdly restocking after selling superstar talent, have failed to do that in the wake of Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham departing and are now mired in mediocrity.<h3>Player of the week 🌟</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/cropped_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766756/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194622799.jpg?ts=1737592458 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Soccrates Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: Julian Alvarez. The forward is increasingly influential for Atletico Madrid. Alvarez's selflessness and persistence were best demonstrated by a prolonged battle he alone had with three Bayer Leverkusen players as he drove from his own defensive third to near the visitors' 18-yard box. He eventually lost the ball but, undeterred, immediately bit back and won a foul to relieve pressure on his team. That squabble occurred shortly after Atleti were reduced to 10 men, but Alvarez doggedly dragged his depleted side to a 2-1 victory with two clinical finishes. He's the perfect Diego Simeone attacker.Brunt: Vangelis Pavlidis. It took less than an hour for the Greek forward to turn his season around. After a rough start at Benfica, Pavlidis scored a lightning-quick hat-trick in the opening 30 minutes before disaster struck in Tuesday’s defeat to Barcelona. He scored 106 seconds into the game and recorded the third-fastest hat-trick in Champions League history with a penalty less than 10 minutes after Wojciech Szczesny's horrendous blunder left the net wide-open for his second goal. It was by far the most productive game of the campaign for the 26-year-old, who'd failed to impress after scoring just seven goals in his previous 29 games following his arrival from AZ Alkmaar last summer.Nesci: Justin Bijlow. Striker Santiago Gimenez made a strong case with a brace in Feyenoord's surprising 3-0 win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday, but it was the Dutch goalkeeper who shined brightest on a rainy evening inside De Kuip. Bayern unleashed 30 total shots, attacking in a variety of ways, but they couldn't get past the 27-year-old netminder, who made seven saves. His impressive outing included an outstanding stop on Harry Kane, and even when one of his own teammates threatened to score a late own goal, Bijlow's quick reflexes saved the day and maintained the clean sheet.<h3>Highlight of the week 🎥</h3>This deceptive backheel assist from Bellingham was a work of art. Rodrygo's pinpoint finish wasn't bad, either.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🤯 <a href="https://twitter.com/BellinghamJude?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BellinghamJude</a> did a MADNESS... and so did <a href="https://twitter.com/RodrygoGoes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RodrygoGoes</a> 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/4fu1ZwJt4l">pic.twitter.com/4fu1ZwJt4l</a>— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden/status/1882397882244104285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the week 🔢</h3>Just when you think it can't possibly get any worse for Manchester City right now, it does.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
115 - Tonight was the first time in the last 115 occasions that Man City have lost a game in all competitions where they led by 2+ goals. Shock. <a href="https://t.co/fwadG7iQoh">pic.twitter.com/fwadG7iQoh</a>— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaJoe/status/1882190924983464297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Champions League, Matchday 7: Key takeaways, top players, and more 

Kyle Walker is moving to Italy.  AC Milan reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign the r...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/4042" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/4042">Kyle Walker</a> is moving to Italy.AC Milan reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign the right-back on loan until the end of the season, according to transfer insider <a data-in-app-uri="" href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1882065478174343204">Fabrizio Romano</a>.The deal includes an option for Milan to make Walker's stay permanent in the summer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old is expected to travel to Milan in the coming days to complete the deal after undergoing a medical.Walker won 17 titles, including six Premier League trophies and the Champions League, after joining Manchester City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017.After being named captain at the start of the season, manager Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this month that Walker had asked to leave Manchester City."In his mind, he would like to explore it, to go to another country, to play the last years (somewhere else) for many reasons," Guardiola <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3187186" href="https://thescore.com/news/3187186">said</a>.Saudi Arabian clubs were reportedly interested in pursuing him, but Walker preferred to remain in Europe in hopes of keeping his England place as he attempts to reach 100 caps with the national team.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 29: Kyle Walker of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Manchester City FC at The King Power Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Leicester, England.

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Report: AC Milan complete loan deal for Man City's Walker

The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. A time to make transformative additions tha...

The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. A time to make transformative additions that can revive a struggling team or put trophy-chasing sides over the top. It's also a time where expensive, crippling mistakes are made. For every brilliant deal and shrewd piece of business, there are dozens of signings that, for one reason or another, go bust. Some of them in spectacular fashion.This week, while the wheeling and dealing is in full swing, we're ranking the 30 worst signings in soccer history. Compiled by theScore's soccer editors, our list features prototypical high-priced flops along with some of the more mystifying moves that ruined careers, damaged reputations, and set clubs back several years. The three-part series continues below.Follow the entire series this week:<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Part I</th>
<th> Part II</th>
<th> Part III</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161825" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161825">30-21</a></td>
<td>20-11</td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161827" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161827">10-1</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>20. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Barcelona)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/cropped_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/w220xh124_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/w320xh180_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/w640xh360_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/w768xh432_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764835/w1080xh607_GettyImages-92335903.jpg?ts=1736635045 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> LLUIS GENE / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Inter Milan for initial €46 million, plus Samuel Eto'o in 2009Things got ugly after Ibrahimovic left Inter. He said the Italian club wouldn't win anything without him, only to have his proclamation backfire in spectacular fashion after he joined Barcelona for a huge package. But his ill-fated spell with Barcelona was even more acrimonious. A strained relationship with Pep Guardiola was a major factor why Ibrahimovic's stay lasted only a season. The situation came to a boil when Barca were knocked out of the Champions League in 2010 by none other than Inter. Ibrahimovic, substituted following a dreadful outing, claims he unleashed a furious tirade after the team's semifinal exit, calling Guardiola a "spineless coward." Eto'o, meanwhile, was vital in helping Inter win the treble in 2009-10. - Gordon Brunt<h3>19. Lorenzo Insigne (Toronto FC)</h3>Free transfer from Napoli in 2022Toronto FC have made many terrible marquee signings over the years, but Insigne tops the lot. Federico Bernardeschi, another Italian who arrived in 2022, has shown occasional glimpses of talent. Insigne is a different story altogether: 14 goals, 11 assists, and general indifference over 54 appearances; a guaranteed annual income of $15.4 million that's trumped by only Lionel Messi in MLS; constant injury problems; and a reputation for causing off-field drama. TFC are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181113" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181113">reportedly</a> trying to offload him before the 2025 season kicks off, but the financial burden and unrest that Insigne caused will be felt for some time yet. - Daniel Rouse<h3>18. Luka Jovic (Real Madrid)</h3>Signed from Eintracht Frankfurt for initial €65 million in 2019Jovic was coming off the best season of his young career when Real Madrid came calling with the offer of a lifetime. Jovic was 21 at the time and saw an opportunity to star in a team that had struggled to move on from Cristiano Ronaldo and coach Zinedine Zidane. But injuries and the COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible for Jovic to make his mark. Karim Benzema took charge of Madrid's attack, leaving Jovic on the sidelines. Madrid eventually cut their losses, sending the Serbian to Fiorentina on a free transfer in 2022 and even agreeing to cover his wages. Jovic finished his Real Madrid career with three league goals. - Anthony Lopopolo<h3>17. Mykhailo Mudryk (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/cropped_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764836/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187466475.jpg?ts=1736635135 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> picture alliance / picture alliance / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Shakhtar Donetsk for initial €70 million in 2023This one's still percolating, but Mudryk's transfer has all the hallmarks of being another expensive dud for Chelsea. Arriving as the possible solution to Chelsea's attacking problems, Mudryk has instead turned into the poster boy for the dysfunctional era under co-owner Todd Boehly. There was enough hype about Mudryk to spark a reported bidding war between the Blues and Arsenal after a breakthrough season at Shakhtar Donetsk. But Mudryk has only ever shown brief glimpses of the star many predicted him to be. Chelsea will hope he can figure it out before his contract expires in six years. With a possible doping suspension looming and the transfer fee potentially reaching €100 million, this move could easily end up being much higher if we revisit this list in a few years. - Brunt<h3>16. Jack Rodwell (Sunderland)</h3>Signed from Manchester City for £10 million in 2014Listing the worst Sunderland transfers from the past two decades would be difficult. There are so many. But the overall outlay on Rodwell was baffling. Sunderland signed the midfielder after two injury-hit and underwhelming seasons with Manchester City. His weekly pay packet of £70,000 was extremely generous, and the contract became an even bigger burden on the struggling club because it didn't include a clause to reduce his wages after relegation. Sunderland then suffered a second consecutive relegation as Rodwell logged only 105 Championship minutes. Rodwell defined an era where many Sunderland players just didn't seem to care. - Rouse<h3>15. Gaizka Mendieta (Lazio)</h3>Signed from Valencia for €48 million in 2001Mendieta helped Valencia reach back-to-back Champions League finals before joining Lazio in 2001 as the sixth-most expensive player of all time. Mendieta arrived as a kind of savior as Lazio had failed to defend their Serie A title and sold off Pavel Nedved and Juan Sebastian Veron. In reality, the move signaled the beginning of the end of the influential Spanish midfielder's career. Mendieta made just 20 Serie A appearances for Lazio, and subsequent attempts to revive his career at Barcelona and Middlesbrough yielded negative results. - Lopopolo<h3>14. Danny Drinkwater (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/cropped_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/w220xh124_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/w320xh180_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/w640xh360_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/w768xh432_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764837/w1080xh607_GettyImages-847331666.jpg?ts=1736635206 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chelsea Football Club / Chelsea FC / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Leicester City for £35 million in 2017A year after signing N'Golo Kante, Chelsea went back to the Leicester City well, frantically adding Drinkwater on deadline day hoping for the same results. However, the pity for Leicester didn't last long after losing another one of the stars from their 2016 Premier League-winning team. Chelsea changed coaches after Drinkwater's frustrating debut season in a move that all but ended his Blues career. After failing to establish himself as a first-team player, Drinkwater's downward spiral gained momentum with controversial loan spells at Burnley and Aston Villa, which included a run-in with police and reportedly headbutting a teammate. He retired at 33 after his five-year Chelsea contract ended, ultimately making just five Premier League starts for the west London club. - Brunt<h3>13. Antony (Manchester United)</h3>Signed from Ajax for €95 million in 2022Few could understand why United paid top dollar for Antony. He ranked outside the top 10 in dribbles completed in the Eredivisie and outside the top 20 in goals scored. But Erik ten Hag coached him at Ajax and clearly convinced United he was worth the money. What a gross miscalculation. Antony famously went 31 games without scoring for the Red Devils and failed to make a single Premier League start this season. Now the coach who vouched for him is long gone, and the Brazilian himself is seemingly on his way to Real Betis on a loan deal that doubles as a wicked indictment of United's frivolous transfer policy. - Lopopolo<h3>12. Andriy Shevchenko (Chelsea)</h3>Signed from AC Milan for £31 million in 2006Shevchenko was one of the world's most feared marksmen over seven years at AC Milan, scoring 173 goals and winning the 2004 Ballon d'Or award. He joined Chelsea seemingly at his peak. Jose Mourinho <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/5035604.stm">said</a> the striker was his "first choice" since he took over at Stamford Bridge. But Shevchenko looked much older than 29 when he arrived in England and was injury prone. He tallied nine goals in 48 Premier League outings and even endured a miserable loan spell back at Milan, where he failed to register a goal in 18 Serie A appearances. He was broken. - Rouse<h3>11. Carlos Tevez (Shanghai Shenhua)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/cropped_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/w220xh124_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/w320xh180_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/w640xh360_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/w768xh432_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764838/w1080xh607_GettyImages-632089098.jpg?ts=1736635303 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Feature China / Future Publishing / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Boca Juniors for €84 million in 2016There's no better example of how ridiculous Chinese Super League spending became than Tevez's transfer to Shanghai Shenhua. The club made him the richest player in the world with a contract reportedly worth £615,000 a week. But that wasn't enough to motivate the Argentine, who was 32 at the time and struggled with poor form, weight issues, and home sickness. Tevez eventually engineered a return to Boca Juniors and admitted he was "on holiday for seven months" in China. His departure was followed by sweeping reforms that brought an end to the wild spending among Chinese Super League teams. - BruntThe series concludes Friday with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161827" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161827">the top 10</a>.

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Ranking the 30 worst transfers in soccer history (Part 2)

Barcelona spoiled the night for Benfica in dramatic fashion, fighting back from a pair of two-goa...

Barcelona spoiled the night for Benfica in dramatic fashion, fighting back from a pair of two-goal deficits to claim a sensational 5-4 victory in the Champions League on Tuesday.Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/55385" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/55385">Vangelis Pavlidis</a> scored a hat-trick in the opening 30 minutes, and Benfica went on to build a 4-2 lead in the 68th minute, which seemingly established a secure advantage at home.But Hansi Flick's team staged a brilliant late comeback, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/9563" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/9563">Robert Lewandowski</a> halving the deficit from the penalty spot and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/101141" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/101141">Eric Garcia</a> equalizing in the 86th minute. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The drama wasn't done there, though, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/96238" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/96238">Raphinha</a> delivered the knockout blow deep into stoppage time, racing away and smacking home the winning goal in the 96th minute - seconds after Benfica nearly won it at the other end amid a wild scramble in the penalty area.(Available to view in U.S. only)<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
90+6 WINNER FROM RAPHINHA TO SEND BARCA THROUGH 🤯🔥 <a href="https://t.co/F3YuS6Z2YD">pic.twitter.com/F3YuS6Z2YD</a>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/1881828269885968891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>(Available to view in Canada only)<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
RAPHINHA WINS THE GAME AT THE DEATH!!! 📺 Watch the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> live on DAZN <a href="https://t.co/3RFQ1tqapW">pic.twitter.com/3RFQ1tqapW</a>— DAZN Canada (@DAZN_CA) <a href="https://twitter.com/DAZN_CA/status/1881824943765073933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Benfica players were incensed and surrounded the referee while claiming a penalty should have been awarded for a foul prior to Raphinha's goal. But VAR didn't recommend sending on-field official Danny Makkelie to the monitor after a brief look at the play."We knew how hard it would be here, in front of their fans, and they know how to play really well, they have top level players," Raphinha <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/barca-score-wild-comeback-victory-at-benfica-d418fcb1">said</a> after the chaotic match. "We didn't let ourselves sink at 3-1 down, we were focused on what we needed to do to try and change the game."The wild win keeps Barcelona in second place in the league phase of this year's competition - three points behind Liverpool - and guarantees them an automatic spot in the last 16 of the tournament."The mentality of the team, they always believe in themselves and this was unbelievable to see," said Flick, adding that the match was "crazy."

LISBON, PORTUGAL - JANUARY 21: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's first goal with teammates during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between SL Benfica and FC Barcelona at Estadio do SL Benfica on January 21, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Barca storm back for 'crazy' win over Benfica in 9-goal thriller

Neymar wants to go home.  The Brazilian will attempt to terminate his contract with Saudi Arabian...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///olymsm/players/14263" href="https://thescore.com/olymsm/players/14263">Neymar</a> wants to go home.The Brazilian will attempt to terminate his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal and return to boyhood team Santos rather than play in Major League Soccer, report <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43490809/neymar-looking-santos-return-mls-sources">Adriana Garcia and Julien Laurens of ESPN</a>.Speculation over a move to MLS began after Neymar said he was open to a reunion with his former Barcelona teammates, such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcqcon/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/wcqcon/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/4433" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/4433">Luis Suarez</a>, at Inter Miami.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He was in discussions with at least three MLS teams over a potential free transfer after his Al-Hilal contract expires this summer, <a href="https://www.espn.com/football/story/_/id/43429443/neymar-talks-three-mls-teams-possible-move">ESPN's Jeff Carlisle</a> reported last week. The Chicago Fire were reportedly the favorites to land him.Neymar held talks with Santos over a six-month deal and will look to negotiate the termination of his contract with Al-Hilal to receive some of the money owed to him from the two-year contract signed in 2023, according to Garcia and Laurens.Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus said recently that Neymar had no future at the club because he "can no longer play at the level we are used to" after numerous injuries that have plagued his spell in Saudi Arabia. He added that Neymar wasn't going to be registered to play in the second-half of the Saudi Pro League season.Neymar played for Santos' youth and senior teams over a 10-year spell before joining Barcelona in 2013.

SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL - MAY 12: Neymar player of Santos during the match between Corinthians and Santos as part of Paulista Championship at Pacaembu Stadium on May 12, 2013 in São Paulo, Brazil.

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Report: Neymar pushing for Santos return, not MLS move

The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. A time to make transformative additions that can revive a struggling team or put trophy-chasing sides over the top. It's also a time where expensive, crippling mistakes are made. For every brilliant deal and shrewd piece of business, there are dozens of signings that, for one reason or another, go bust. Some of them in spectacular fashion. This week, while the wheeling and dealing is in full swing, we're ranking the 30 worst signings in soccer history. Compiled by theScore's soccer editors, our list features prototypical high-priced flops along with some of the more mystifying moves that ruined careers, damaged reputations, and set clubs back several years. The three-part series kicks off below.Follow the entire series this week:<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Part I</th>
<th> Part II</th>
<th> Part III</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>30-21</td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161826" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161826">20-11</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161827" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161827">10-1</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>30. Leonardo Bonucci (AC Milan)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/cropped_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w220xh124_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w320xh180_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w640xh360_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w768xh432_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w1080xh607_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Claudio Villa. / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Juventus for €42 million in 2017AC Milan made Bonucci the centerpiece of their rebuilding project in 2017, handing him the captaincy shortly after signing him. Bonucci was a shell of the defender that co-anchored Juventus' defense and admitted he only left Juventus out of anger. It was largely because of his acrimonious exit that he had no problem celebrating a goal against his former team that season, something many Juventus supporters still haven't forgiven or forgotten. But by 2018, the Rossoneri no longer wanted Bonucci and sent him back to Juve for €35 million. The fact they recouped the majority of their initial investment is the only reason he isn't higher on this list. - Anthony Lopopolo<h3>29. Kevin Davies (Blackburn Rovers)</h3>Signed from Southampton for £7.25 million in 1998Davies reportedly cost 10 times more than Southampton paid for him just one year earlier - and the <a href="https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6152356.rovers-blackburn-get-davies-knockdown-7-25m/">Lancashire Telegraph</a> still described what Blackburn Rovers stumped up as a "knockdown price." It's safe to say they didn't get much of a return on the bustling forward. He lasted one season, scored once in 21 appearances as the club was relegated from the Premier League, and was sent back to Southampton in exchange for Egil Ostenstad. Blackburn's failings with Davies were highlighted years later when he enjoyed a fruitful decade-long spell with Bolton Wanderers. - Daniel Rouse<h3>28. Malcom (Barcelona)</h3>Signed from Bordeaux for initial €41 million in 2018The hype over Malcom was intense the summer he chose to join Barcelona. He initially had an agreement to play for Roma but ultimately couldn't resist the chance to join Lionel Messi's team. A year later, after a horrific debut season, the Brazilian's exit was a relief for both sides. A lack of trust from then Barca coach Ernesto Valverde saw Malcom end the season with four goals in 24 games. The winger's poor campaign earned him a move to Russia, where he failed to salvage a career that was already in tatters by the time he was 22. - Gordon Brunt<h3>27. Jonathan Woodgate (Real Madrid)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/cropped_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w220xh124_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w320xh180_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w640xh360_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w768xh432_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w1080xh607_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Denis Doyle / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Newcastle United for £13.4 million in 2004Woodgate joined fellow Englishmen David Beckham and Michael Owen in the Spanish capital, prompting <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/3580578.stm">BBC Sport</a> to run a story with the headline "Real invest in British steel." Woodgate's apparent steeliness was found wanting as he waited over a year for his debut due to fitness issues, and when his introduction finally came, he managed to score an own goal and get sent off. He was back in England a year later. The center-back's disastrous Real Madrid debut defined a playing career that could've been so much better without his persistent injury problems. - Rouse<h3>26. Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City)</h3>Signed from Leeds United for initial £42 million in 2022Roque Santa Cruz, Eliaquim Mangala, and Claudio Bravo are among many duds that Manchester City have signed since the 2008 takeover, but the acquisition of Phillips was both terrible business and ruinous for the player. Being in a team that hogged possession didn't suit the former Leeds favorite, and the injury-prone midfielder's confidence plummeted when Pep Guardiola publicly accused him of being overweight. Phillips started two Premier League matches in 18 months for City, had an error-strewn loan stay at West Ham United, and is now trying to rebuild his career on loan at Ipswich Town. - Rouse<h3>25. Alexis Sanchez (Manchester United)</h3>Henrikh Mkhitaryan sent to Arsenal in swap deal in 2018Sanchez wanted to leave Manchester United after just one training session. He famously asked his people if he could "rip up" his contract and return to Arsenal, and of course, they laughed. Manchester United had already sent Henrikh Mkhitaryan the other way and committed to paying Sanchez an enormous salary worth around £350,000 per week. But his gut was telling him the right thing. The next year and a half was miserable. Sanchez scored just three Premier League goals in 32 appearances for United and ended up leaving for Inter on a free transfer. - Lopopolo<h3>24. Winston Bogarde (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/cropped_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w220xh124_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w320xh180_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w640xh360_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w768xh432_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Clive Brunskill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed on free transfer from Barcelona in 2000Bogarde committed career suicide at 29. The English media accused him of kicking back and letting £40,000 per week - a huge wage at the time - roll into his bank account during his final four years as a pro. However, the Dutchman has since <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/27/winston-bogarde-chelsea-interview">blamed</a> his inactivity on Chelsea's insistence that clubs pay his full salary to sign him on loan. No one did, and the Blues' stubbornness was peculiar during a financially unstable period for the club. Bogarde played 11 times in his first campaign and appeared just once as a substitute over the three seasons that followed. - Rouse<h3>23. Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq)</h3>Signed from Liverpool for £12 million in 2023In under six months, Henderson destroyed his reputation and harmed Saudi Arabia's expensive mission to make its league respected across the globe. Henderson, previously a vocal advocate of the LGBTQ+ community, was slammed for chasing the money to a Middle East nation where same-sex sexual activity is illegal. England fans jeered the midfielder, believing he didn't merit national team selection while playing in a weaker league. Henderson's miserable 19-game spell in Saudi Arabia also shed light on the oil-rich state having a weak appetite for the sport, with crowds not reaching 1,000 for some Al-Ettifaq games. It was a terrible transfer all around. - Rouse<h3>22. Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich)</h3>Signed from Borussia Dortmund for €37 million in 2013Gotze was on top of the world in the summer of 2014. Germany was a World Cup champion again thanks to his dramatic title-winning goal in the final in Brazil. All that was left was to repair his domestic reputation. The summer before, Gotze was one of the most sought-after midfielders, and he eventually decided to take the well-trodden path from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich. However, unlike those before him, Gotze didn't enjoy success. His development stunted under Guardiola's guidance, and he ended up re-joining Dortmund. But the damage was done. Gotze has never been the same. - Brunt<h3>21. Fernando Torres (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/cropped_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w220xh124_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w320xh180_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w640xh360_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w768xh432_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w1080xh607_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Darren Walsh / Chelsea FC / Getty</figcaption></figure>Signed from Liverpool for £50 million in 2011It was awful from the beginning. Months went by before Torres scored his first goal after his shock move from Liverpool to Chelsea. The 14-game drought was initially viewed as a blip on the radar, but the worst was yet to come. Torres suffered long periods without a goal during crucial stretches over the next two seasons while producing some truly bizarre misses along the way. The once-revered forward was broken. He etched his name in Chelsea lore with a dramatic Champions League semifinal goal in 2012, but it wasn't enough to gloss over how much of a letdown he ultimately was at Stamford Bridge. - BruntThe rollout continues Wednesday with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161826" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161826">Nos. 20-11</a>.

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Ranking the 30 worst transfers in soccer history (Part 1)

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