The 2024/25 season saw clubs across Europe spend millions on new signings, hoping to strengthen their squads. However, not every transfer lived up to expectations. Some players struggled with form, injuries, or tactical fit, making them major disappointments. Here are the biggest flops of the season and how they failed to make an impact.
1. Mikel Merino (Arsenal, £31.2M)
Merino’s case is controversial to others he has shown thirst and has performed well in the Gunners squad but overall he has not lived to the expectation. Arsenal signed Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, expecting him to be a midfield powerhouse. However, injuries and inconsistent performances have made him one of the worst signings of the season.
- Appearances: 43
- Goals: 9
- Assists: 5
- Pass Accuracy: 82% Merino has struggled to adapt to Mikel Arteta’s system, often looking out of sync with the team’s playstyle.
2. Federico Chiesa (Liverpool, £10M)
Liverpool’s decision to sign Federico Chiesa from Juventus raised eyebrows, and unfortunately, the Italian winger has failed to impress. He has been left out of stating 11 many times only being sub in late minutes. He is yet to find his rhythm at Liverpool and may even be sold or loaned to other teams.
- Appearances: 12
- Goals: 1
- Assists: 1
- Minutes Played: 240 Chiesa’s injury struggles have kept him out of action, making him a costly mistake for Liverpool.
3. Julian Araujo (Bournemouth, £8.5M)
Bournemouth signed Julian Araujo from Barcelona, hoping he would strengthen their defense. Instead, he has been unable to secure a starting spot. He has not been a favourite with the Cherries and is left out in many games. With Defender Dean Huijsen leaving to Madrid he might get a chance to prove himself at Bournemouth.
- Appearances: 13
- Tackles per Game: 1.5
- Interceptions: 0.8 Araujo has failed to replace Adam Smith, making Bournemouth’s investment look questionable
4. Ilkay Gundogan (Manchester City, Free Transfer)
After leaving Barcelona, Gundogan returned to Manchester City, but his performances have been underwhelming. Although being included in many games he, his performance has not improved and might not get a contract renewal after it expires.
- Appearances: 43
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 6 Despite his experience, Gundogan has struggled to influence matches, leading to criticism from fans.
5. Raheem Sterling (Arsenal, Loan)
Arsenal brought in Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea, expecting him to add pace and creativity. Instead, he has been one of the least effective signings. He has lost his tempo and has been sitting on the bench on many games and when he plays, he is subbed in late minutes.
- Appearances: 27
- Goals: 1
- Assists: 4 Sterling has failed to fit into Arteta’s structured system, leading to limited playing time.
6. Rasmus Højlund (Manchester United)
Højlund was signed as United’s marquee striker, but he failed to deliver, scoring just 7 goals in the league. His struggles mirrored United’s overall decline, making him one of the season’s biggest disappointments. As a striker Hojlund was expected to be an assets to united and compete with other Premier League Strikers, this has not been the case.
- Appearance: 49
- Goals: 10
- Assists: 2
7. André Onana (Manchester United)
United’s goalkeeper had a nightmare season, making multiple errors leading to goals. His performances raised concerns about his ability to be United’s long-term No. 1. United regret signing Onana and letting De Gea go, this has proven to be detrimental for United as they finished the League in 15th position, worst in United history.
- Penalty Saved: 1
- Mistakes: 4
- Catches: 8
8. João Félix (AC Milan)
Despite his talent, Félix struggled to find his footing at AC Milan, failing to deliver the expected attacking prowess. He started in Benfica where he joined Atletico Madrid for a record fee of €126 million, after a poor performance he was loaned to Chelsea, then returned to Atletic who then Loaned him to Barcelona. He then returned to Atletic who sold him to Chelsea, Chelsea then loaned him to AC Milan. He was to be the next Messi but he has fallen short.
- Appearance: 21
- Goals: 3
- Assist: 0
Conclusion: Players Who Need to Improve
These players have struggled to justify their transfers, but they still have time to turn things around. Whether it’s adapting to new tactics, improving fitness, or regaining confidence, they must step up to avoid being labeled as season-long flops.
Stay tuned for more updates on football’s biggest transfer disappointments!
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