As the 2024-25 Premier League season draws to a close, the focus inevitably shifts to those transfers that failed to deliver. Despite the billions spent across England’s top flight, not every signing hits the ground running. These are the ten players who failed to meet expectations, ranked from merely disappointing to outright disastrous.
10. Ian Maatsen (Aston Villa) – £37.5m
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Ian Maatsen arrived at Villa Park with high hopes following a strong loan at Borussia Dortmund. However, he struggled to establish himself under Unai Emery, with Lucas Digne preferred in his position for much of the campaign.
9. Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United) – £43m
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Signed to bring leadership to United’s shaky defence, Matthijs de Ligt hasn’t committed obvious errors, but his presence hasn’t improved the team’s defensive record. With United conceding heavily, his impact has been minimal for such a hefty fee.
Jadon Sancho began brightly at Chelsea, assisting four times in his first three games. Yet his form quickly deteriorated, and the Blues are now reportedly considering cutting the loan short.
7. Emile Smith Rowe (Fulham) – £34m
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Smith Rowe started well at Fulham, but his influence faded as the season progressed. Ongoing fitness issues have once again derailed his form, leading to him being dropped from the starting lineup.
6. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Chelsea) – £30m
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Despite his connection with Enzo Maresca, Dewsbury-Hall has barely featured at Chelsea. Competition from more established midfielders has limited his opportunities, leaving his transfer looking increasingly questionable.
5. Eddie Nketiah (Crystal Palace) – £30m
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Nketiah was tipped to shine away from Arsenal, but he has struggled for consistency at Crystal Palace. With just three league goals, he’s been overshadowed by the form of Jean-Philippe Mateta.
4. Joshua Zirkzee (Manchester United) – £36.5m
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Zirkzee came in with promise after a strong season in Serie A but failed to adapt quickly. He managed only three goals before injury cut short a disappointing debut season in England.
3. Federico Chiesa (Liverpool) – £12.5m
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This low-cost gamble by Liverpool has not paid off, as Chiesa has barely featured due to injuries and a lack of trust from Arne Slot. With just over 100 minutes in the league, his signing has turned into a non-factor.
2. Raheem Sterling (Arsenal) – Loan
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Sterling’s move to Arsenal was meant to reignite his career, but it’s been the opposite. The winger has looked devoid of confidence and often found himself unused even when attacking options were limited.
1. Joao Felix (Chelsea) – £46m
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Joao Felix tops the list as the most disappointing signing of the season. Brought in for a large fee, he never found his place in Maresca’s system and was quickly sent out on loan, leaving Chelsea with little to show for their investment.
Oliver Obel – Sports Content Creator & Football Specialist
I’m a passionate Sports Content Creator with a strong focus on football. I write for LenteDesportiva, where I produce high-quality content that informs, entertains, and connects with football fans around the world.
My work revolves around player rankings, transfer analysis, and in-depth features that explore the modern game. I combine a sharp editorial instinct with a deep understanding of football’s evolution, always aiming to deliver content that captures both insight and emotion.
