In a soccer scoreboards feature, I have reviewed the 3 biggest transfers of the year, and asked the big question, “was it worth it?!”
The saying “money can buy everything” seems to be true in today’s sporting world. Qualities like honesty and loyalty are also bought. This is true in the case of every sport and soccer is no exception. Players are more loyal and honest to clubs that pay them a handsome amount, whilst the concept of loyalty to the fans or the name of a club is dying out. Even in the top clubs in the world no players are untouchable, as the “new rich,” such as Manchester City, can stroll in and buy practically who they like for vastly inflated prices. 2010 has ended so let’s take a look at the biggest trades of the year.
Angel Di Maria – Benfica to Real Madrid
Angel Di Maria was a big star for Benfica. He is an Argentine player and is regarded by Diego Maradona as Argentina’s next soccer scoreboards big star. When Benfica bought Di Maria they were very confident that they had got just the player they needed and Di Maria did not disappoint them. He showed that he has got everything that a complete soccer player should have. On 28th June 2010, Real Madrid announced on their website that they are in contact with Benfica and Angel Di Maria will sign a five year contract with him. He signed a contract worth €25 million plus €11 million as incentives. Up till now, Di Maria has done a decent job with Real Madrid, however he still has a very long way to go.
David Silva – Valencia CF to Manchester City
Spainish players are in demand after emerging as the World Champions this year. Every club wants to have a Spanish player in their side. He signed a €28.75 million deal with Manchester City. This transfer was expected to be a flop as Silva was not seen as a suitable player for the physically demanding English Premier League. He is short and perhaps doesn’t have the aggression that is needed to play in this league. So far he is far from justifying the huge money that was spent on him.
David Villa – Valencia CF to FC Barcelona
Last year’s most expensive transfer was David Villa. Barcelona got him for €40 million, and he is certainly worth the money. The transfer was decided in May and it has turned out to be a very successful one. Villa was playing very well for his former club and after his incredible performance in this year’s World Cup this transfer was cemented as a huge success for the club. Villa took sometime to adjust with the team but now that he has, he is proving to be a huge asset for Barcelona. With Messi and Pedro in the side they have accumulated 50 plus goals. He is a perfect find for the team and has strengthened the team even further. Barcelona are now on top of the points table and are looking unbeatable.
For more information on David Villa, go to:
en.wikipedia.org