The season is pretty much over, which means it’s a good time to look back at the business some clubs did in the summer—and how horribly some of it turned out.
Today, we’re not talking about the smart signings or the bargain gems. We’re diving into the worst transfers of the 2024–25 season.
Let us know in the comments who you think takes the crown for worst signing. Now, let’s begin the countdown!
10. Emile Smith Rowe – Fulham
After a €32 million move from Arsenal to Fulham, hopes were high. Smith Rowe became the most expensive player in Fulham’s history—but he hasn’t lived up to the price tag.
Though he started brightly with three goal involvements in five games, his form dropped drastically, and he lost his place in the starting XI. A disappointing season for a record signing.
9. Kalvin Phillips – Ipswich Town
Phillips joined newly-promoted Ipswich Town on loan from Manchester City, expected to bring top-flight experience. Instead, he brought errors, red cards, and injuries.
A goal against Bristol Rovers in the FA Cup is all he’s managed, while his booking count is five times higher than his goal tally. Not what Ipswich signed up for.
8. Raphaël Varane – Como
Yes, that Varane. The experienced defender signed with newly-promoted Como in Serie A, only to get injured in his debut.
He never recovered, was excluded from the Serie A squad, and then announced his retirement in September. It’s a bizarre ending to what was supposed to be a coup for the Italian side.
7. João Palhinha – Bayern Munich
After a failed transfer the previous year, Bayern Munich finally paid €56 million to get João Palhinha from Fulham.
But injuries, illness, and suspensions have made his debut season a nightmare. He’s mostly been benched in big games, including both Champions League quarter-finals. A frustrating year for fans and player alike.
6. Federico Chiesa – Liverpool
Chiesa was Liverpool’s only signing last summer, and it’s been a disaster. He’s played just 33 minutes in the Premier League, spending more time in hospitals than on the pitch.
When he did play full matches, Liverpool lost—against PSV and even Plymouth Argyle. Thankfully for Liverpool, Mohamed Salah stayed fit.
5. Raheem Sterling – Arsenal
Arsenal took Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea, but he quickly fell out of favour with Arteta.
He’s only played 369 Premier League minutes all season. With his experience, fans expected so much more. Instead, defenders are being picked over him in attack.
4. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea signed Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City for €35 million—a move most fans questioned from the start.
With Enzo and Caicedo already in midfield, Dewsbury-Hall struggled for minutes and impact. Most of his playtime has come in the Conference League, and Chelsea are already considering moving him on.
3. Eddie Nketiah – Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace spent €30 million to bring in Nketiah from Arsenal, making him their second most expensive signing ever.
He took six months to score his first league goal, then picked up a red card three matches later.
Meanwhile, Ismaïla Sarr, signed for half the price, has been directly involved in 12 goals. Ouch.
2. Douglas Luiz – Juventus
Juventus paid €51.5 million for Luiz, hoping he’d replicate his Aston Villa form. Instead, he’s played just over 5 full games all season and has 0 goals and 0 assists.
Injuries and poor form have made this a miserable investment for the Bianconeri.
1. João Félix – Chelsea / Milan
When Chelsea failed to land Samu Omorodion, they pivoted to João Félix, paying €52 million to Atlético Madrid. He barely played, complained, and got loaned to AC Milan in January.
Things didn’t improve there. After scoring on debut, Félix faded again. A 7-year contract makes this a long-term headache for Chelsea. One of the most baffling transfers of the season.
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