RADIO
It's funny how you can go from loving a player to instantly hating them if they join your rivals. Unfortunately, with the influx of big money in soccer, this has become pretty common over the years with players as well as managers trading their reputations and jumping ship for more glory and in some cases, a bigger paycheck.
And so, we take a look at ten of these prominent soccer figures that have crossed the infamous divide:
Editor’s Note: be sure to check out all of our articles, and read more about English Premier League (EPL, BPL) fantasy analysis and European football news.
Ashley Cole (Arsenal to Chelsea)
Ashley Cole came through the Arsenal ranks and slowly became one of the best left-backs not only in England but in world football. He was quick, reliable, passionate and one Arsenal's own which made him that much more likeable.
However, in 2005, he was labeled guilty of making contact with Chelsea over a potential move without permission. This was after the Englishman himself claimed he nearly 'drove into a tree' after being told the Gunners would offer him a contract of only £55,000 per week.
Things soon became ugly as Cole eventually moved to Chelsea for £5 million with Blues defender William Gallas going the other way. It was a huge shame for Arsenal as Gallas didn't play as well as he did for Chelsea while Cole was still in the prime of his career.
Cole naturally became a hated figure at the Emirates Stadium but many Arsenal fans today would be lying if they said they wouldn't have taken him back.
Jorge Jesus (Benfica to Sporting)
A recent change in management, Jorge Jesus became Sporting CP's new manager after six years at Benfica.
A truly shocking decision considering how big the rivalry between the two clubs are, Sporting acquired the best manager in Portugal who led Benfica to consecutive league titles in 2014 and 2015 as well as a league title in 2010.
And as a former Sporting player, the club took a dig at Benfica by tweeting "Welcome home" when they announced the arrival of Jesus. He will no doubt, certainly be booed when the two teams meet at the Estádio da Luz.
But considering how well he's gotten them to play in recent years and the trophies he's won for them, along with the fact that Jesus is reportedly a boyhood Sporting fan, he should deserve some respect at least.
Carlos Tevez (Man United to Man City)
Carlos Tevez was part of United's deadly trio of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney that saw them win the double in 2008. One of the most likeable players to ever grace Old Trafford, Tevez was a fan favorite. Not only did he play well, score goals and assist his teammates - he worked his socks off and had a tremendous engine.
However, after the 2008-2009 season, Tevez and his advisors told United that he didn't want to sign permanently with the Red Devils and then, proceeded to do the worst possible thing by signing for their rivals, Manchester City.
In the process, becoming one of the most hated players in the red side of Manchester but also one of the most loved in the blue side of Manchester.
Robin van Persie (Arsenal to Man United)
Certainly not the first Arsenal player to jump ship, Robin van Persie was Arsenal's captain and the best striker in England during the 2011/2012 season.
However, Arsenal suffered another trophyless season as they could only finish in 3rd despite Van Persie's scoring efforts. And so, he posted an "update for the fans" on his website, stating that he wasn't happy with the direction Arsenal were going in and would not renew his contract which was expiring in a year's time.
Not the best way to announce your departure but the Dutchman got what he wanted in the end with a move to rivals Manchester United where he won the league in his first season.
At least Arsenal fans can take solace that he's become injury prone again and looks likely to be sold this summer. And the fact that Arsenal have won more trophies than Manchester United in the last two years.
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal to Chelsea)
One of the most controversial moves in recent years, former Arsenal captain moved to Chelsea last summer.
While he didn't move to Stamford Bridge directly, there is a lot of backstory here. Basically, Fabregas left Barcelona as a teenager and was slowly being groomed by Arsenal, playing in the first team from a very young age.
He slowly became an important player and eventually, the best player in the team as he became captain in 2008. Loved by all Arsenal fans, Fabregas unfortunately became homesick and wanted to go back to Barcelona. This temptation was harder to resist especially as Barcelona were winning just about everything at the time.
After a series of summers which led to rumor after rumor, Fabregas finally re-signed for Barcelona in 2011 but still openly supported Arsenal whenever they played.
However, he never quite fit in during his three seasons at the club and this was emphasized by Barcelona's club statement when he left.
He wanted to return to Arsenal but the Gunners already had Mesut Ozil in his place and had no room for the Spaniard. With no choice, Fabregas was left to join Chelsea. His connection with Arsenal (perhaps unfairly) was destroyed since but as a player, he ended up winning the league title - something he never did with Arsenal.
Football Chat Room
[iflychat_embed id="c-60" hide_user_list="yes" hide_popup_chat="no" height="400px"]
