Pogba’s Not the Only One: The Most Valuable Players to Make a Return to Former Clubs
Ever wondered which football stars have made the most successful returns to their former clubs? We’ve got the answers!
Ronaldo’s infamous reunion with Manchester United in 2021 still lingers in the memory. After a whirlwind summer move, the Portuguese ace scored 24 goals in his first season back, reviving nostalgia for the Red Devils. But he’s not the only high-profile example.
On a more recent note, Dani Olmo has made his way back to Barcelona, where he once developed through the famous La Masia academy. The midfielder made his departure in 2014, only to return this year in a deal worth €55 million – the third-largest in history for a player making a return to their former club!
So, who are the most valuable players to make a comeback? Let’s take a look at the numbers.
According to Transfermarkt, the most valuable player to return to their former club is Romelu Lukaku, who came back to Chelsea from Inter Milan in 2021. His return, valued at €113m, comes after he was initially sold to Everton for a paltry €35.36m just seven years prior. Talk about a savvy piece of business!
And it gets even better – Paul Pogba makes the top three not once, but twice! He rejoined Manchester United from Juventus in 2016, before leaving on a free transfer once again to head back to the Italian giants. But his second stint, ranking sixth, saw him reprise his role at Old Trafford once more.
Cesc Fàbregas, the Spaniard, comes in at fourth with his return to Barcelona from Arsenal, which saw him go full-circle from the Camp Nou to the Emirates and back again. Meanwhile, Diego Costa’s decision to rejoin Atlético Madrid from Chelsea takes fifth place.
So, there you have it! Some of the most valuable players to make a successful return to their former clubs. Stay ahead of the game with our in-depth analysis and updates.
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