The Most Controversial Transfers in EFL History: Moves That Shocked the League

The history of the English Football League (EFL) can be filled with triumphant success, crushing disappointment, and controversy. Of these, player transfers have always been a hot topic of football debates and rage-reflex reactions for the fans. While some moves are just shocking news to fans, others make a lasting impression on the history of the league. Here, we look at some of the most contentious re-locations within English football’s lower leagues. 

 

Sol Campbell – Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal (2001)

 

One of the most controversial transfers in English football history, Sol Campbell switching from Tottenham Hotspur to arch-rivals Arsenal, rocked North London. Campbell, who had promised fans he would remain with the Spurs before moving across London to join the Gunners on a free transfer. Tottenham fans viewed his move as a betrayal, and it caused uproar within the world of football. Overall, Campbell won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups during his time with Arsenal, further rubbing salt in the wounds of loyal Spurs supporters. 

 

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  • 2 to 1 (9%).
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Carlos Tevez & Javier Mascherano – Corinthians to West Ham United (2006)

 

The tale of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano swooping from Brazilian side Corinthians to West Ham United in 2006 is one that seems better fitted for Hollywood than the football world. It was a controversial deal due to third-party ownership issues against Premier League rules. These signings were instrumental in West Ham’s Premier League survival that season (especially Tevez, who helped the club stave off relegation). Yet West Ham was subsequently hit with a £5.5 million fine. The rules surrounding third-party ownership of players underwent major changes after these events.

 

Ashley Cole – Arsenal to Chelsea (2006)

 

The 2006 transfer of Ashley Cole to Chelsea caused a bit of a ruckus for various reasons. Bitter Arsenal supporters referred to the England international as “Cashley,” accusing him of being driven by money, and there was certainly something distasteful about how he exited. The Premier League charged the left-back for tapping up — making contact with Chelsea without Arsenal’s knowledge. After Cole’s transfer, Chelsea quickly became a powerhouse under Roman Abramovich. This was just another sign that loyalty had little place in modern day football.

 

Nick Barmby – Everton to Liverpool (2000)

 

In 2000, the £6 million transfer of Nick Barmby from Everton to Liverpool saw him become the first player since Dave Hickson in the 1950s to switch directly between Merseyside rivals. This move enraged Evertonians, who felt one of their stars had ditched the club to join its most bitter rivals. Barmby’s decision to cross the park from Everton was bold, and it only made those heated Merseyside derbies even more memorable. 

 

Eric Cantona – Leeds United to Manchester United (1992)

 

Even now, one of the most renowned transfers of all-time is Eric Cantona’s move to Manchester United from Leeds United back in 1992, for a meagre £1.2 million. Cantona had surprisingly and controversially joined after having helped Leeds win the league title three times in the previous four seasons. It was at Manchester United that he earned legendary status, winning four Premier League titles in five years. That transfer is regarded as one of the catalysts for Manchester United’s success throughout the 90s and early 2000s.

 

Conclusion

 

Transfers in football is a tricky business, and not just for players/clubs, as fans also get emotionally invested. The list of controversial moves evoked here is a remarkable reminder of how the game never leaves its’ followers’ hearts. The shockwaves of these transfers in their respective leagues changed the destiny of many clubs and players. In years to come, with the landscape of the EFL forever changing, there will, as ever, be more contentious decisions that create stories and affect a game we all love.