In the world of football, player transfers have the power to reshape the landscape of the game. Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed some of the most impactful transfers, from iconic legends to emerging talents. These transfers have not only altered the fortunes of clubs but have also left an indelible mark on the sport itself. Here, we present the top 10 effective transfers of the decade.
1. Lionel Messi – Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Messi’s move to PSG sent shockwaves across the footballing world, forming a formidable trio with Neymar and Mbappé.
- PSG’s president Nasser Al-Khelaifi: “Signing Messi was a dream come true.”
2. Cristiano Ronaldo – Juventus to Manchester United
- Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford brought back a global icon to the Premier League.
- Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: “Cristiano’s influence on and off the pitch is immeasurable.”
3. Erling Haaland – RB Salzburg to Borussia Dortmund
- Haaland’s switch to Dortmund transformed him into one of the hottest properties in European football.
- Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc: “Erling’s goalscoring ability is simply extraordinary.”
4. Kylian Mbappé – AS Monaco to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Mbappé’s move within France catapulted him to superstardom.
- PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino: “Kylian’s blend of pace and skill is a game-changer.”
5. Virgil van Dijk – Southampton to Liverpool
- Van Dijk’s arrival at Liverpool solidified their defense, leading to Premier League and Champions League triumphs.
- Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp: “Virgil transformed our defensive resilience.”
6. Kevin De Bruyne – Wolfsburg to Manchester City
- De Bruyne’s transfer to City elevated him to one of the best midfielders in the world.
- Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola: “Kevin’s vision and passing ability are unmatched.”
7. Bruno Fernandes – Sporting CP to Manchester United
- Fernandes’ arrival at Old Trafford revitalized United’s midfield and attacking prowess.
- Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs: “Bruno’s impact was instant and profound.”
8. N’Golo Kanté – Leicester City to Chelsea
- Kanté’s move to Chelsea played a pivotal role in their Premier League and Champions League triumphs.
- Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel: “N’Golo is a manager’s dream.”
9. Mohamed Salah – AS Roma to Liverpool
- Salah’s signing by Liverpool marked the beginning of a prolific goal-scoring journey.
- Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson: “Mo’s work ethic is second to none.”
10. Lautaro Martínez – Racing Club to Inter Milan – Martínez’s transfer to Inter Milan was a turning point for the club’s Serie A success. – Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi: “Lautaro’s hunger and determination stood out.”
These transfers have not only shaped the last decade of football but have also paved the way for the stars of tomorrow. As we look back on these impactful moves, the anticipation builds for what the next decade of football transfers will bring.
Summary:
- The past decade has witnessed some of the most influential football transfers.
- Messi’s move to PSG, Ronaldo’s return to Man United, and Haaland’s switch to Dortmund top the list.
- Other notable transfers include Mbappé to PSG, Van Dijk to Liverpool, and De Bruyne to Man City.
- Fernandes revived Man United, Kanté powered Chelsea, and Salah’s signing marked Liverpool’s success.
- Lautaro Martínez played a crucial role in Inter Milan’s Serie A triumphs