Transfer Rivals - When Players move to Rival Clubs

Luis Figo has done it, so has Sol Campbell, Roberto Baggio and off late it was Robin Van Persie. In our  previous article we went through the most controversial transfers so far and saw the implications it had on the fans. There is no doubt than when a footballer moves to a rival, it is not only the fans, but also the clubs as well as the player himself who has to face the consequences. However, it is the ethical point of view that people like to debate the most. After serving a club for long is it really fair to move to a rival?

There are a hoard of reasons for a player seeking a transfer. It could be better wages, more playing time, ambition to win trophies or altercations in the dressing room. Most fans wouldn’t be angered by a player who has switched sides for more playing time. However, it is the players who move for better wages or ambitions of a trophy that face the wrath of the fans. Some would say, it is not just about weakening your own squad, but also strengthening the opposition. However, take the simple comparison of Van Persie moving to Old Trafford vs Sagna moving to The Ethihad. While the former is always hurled with abuses, the latter had a relatively smooth transfer. Apart from Wenger bringing in the right players to replace him, at his age most Gooners would also consider Sagna to be expendable to a certain extent. Hence, the smooth transfer. However isn’t it a bit of hypocritical on our part? You can criticize a player who has value but be indifferent about someone who hasn’t.

From the players point of view, he puts on his jersey and serves the club he has a contract with on a daily basis. This is similar to any of us who are employed in a company. However, when we find a better job, most of us take the jump. Irrespective of the reason, isn’t it just fair for a player to do the same. After all, playing football is his daily job, let alone the fact that a players career is far shorter.

Clubs, quite frankly would rue the loss of a star players skills onfield, but let’s not forget they also do make good money from the transfer.

So when a club and player both are happy, the why is it then that the fans are so hurt? From riots in Florence, to a pig head being hurled at Luis Figo, it is emotional sentiment that a fan holds towards the club that brings upon these actions. There is no doubt that a player like Steven Gerrard who sticks to his club, has far more glory to achieve, but it also isn’t wrong for someone to seek new pastures. Fans should also accept the fact that no player can be greater than a club. Top players are not expendable however, they certainly are replaceable.