5 worst signings ever by Real Madrid
Real Madrid are one of the richest clubs across the globe. After being elected club president, Florentino Perez took it upon himself to sign the best (read expensive) players in the world and build a formidable side nicknamed the Galacticos. However, Madrid have also witnessed a few dismal signings. Here we look at 5 worst signings by Los Blancos.
He came, he saw, he left
While most Real Madrid players are remembered for their stunning performances, Jonathan Woodgate is known for his injuries. He had joined Los Blancos in 2004, but an injury deterred him from making his debut which he finally did in 2005. The match was a disastrous one for Woodgate as he scored an own-goal and was red-carded later. He was shipped to England in 2006.
A flop at Castille and Catalonia
Robert Prosinecki was a gifted mid-fielder who had helped Red Star Belgrade win the European Cup, before he was signed by Los Blancos. His first season at Real was plagued with injuries and the only commendable moment was a free-kick goal against Barcelona. After disappointing second and third seasons, he was offloaded to Oviedo and then to Barcelona where he flopped again under Cruyff.
How could the best player flop at the best club?
When Real had signed Kaka, he was at the top of the world. He was 27, with a World Cup, a Champions League and the Ballon d'Or to his name. It looked like the beginning of a glorious relationship. However, injuries prevented him from making an impact while Ronaldo skyrocketed to fame. The arrival of Mourinho and Ozil crushed his chances.
Anxiety takes its toll on this player
Real acquired the signature of Drenthe from Feyenoord in 2007 for a sum of €14 million. Though Drenthe started regularly in the left-wing, his first-team chances diminished once Marcelo was developed as a fullback. Drenthe suffered from anxiety issues after being booed by the Bernabeu crowd. He never managed to regain his form and was ultimately loaned to Hercules.
'Le Sulk' sulks at the Bernabeu as well
The talented but temperamental French striker Nicolas Anelka was shipped to Real Madrid from Arsenal but lasted only for a season. His start with Los Blancos was not bad, having netted in twice in a Champions League appearance against Bayern Munich. The Frenchman managed to score 7 goals that season but received a suspension of 45 days. Anelka was then shipped off to PSG.
