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Top 5 transfers in the modern era that failed to click

When Angel di Maria left Manchester United for Paris Saint-Germain a fortnight ago, United fans were angered and took to social media to express their disappointment about how the transfer affected the club, its fans and also the famous number 7 jersey. It was a transfer that many thought will bring laurels back to United. But it wasn't meant to be.In recent times, we have seen many deals that didn’t meet the initial expectations of the club. Be it for injuries, poor form, unsettlement or any other reason, the player failed to deliver in his time with the club which forced him to search for new pastures in order to revive his career.And as we near the close of the transfer window for this summer, apart from Di Maria’s one year spell at United, we look at the other top five transfers in the history of club football that never clicked.

#5 Rio Ferdinand - Manchester United to Queens Park Rangers

Ferdinand hung up his boots from professional football after QPR

Rio Ferdinand’s career took a complete downfall when he signed for Queens Park Rangers on a one-year contract in 2014 after being released by Manchester United. Having made over 700 Premier League appearances and having won 81 England caps, 6 Premier League titles and a Champions League medal, Ferdinand has been named as one of England’s most successful players over his brilliant career.

  • However, since joining Queens Park Rangers after he was released by United, his career fizzled out and after failing to impress during the club’s opening 7 games, the 36-year-old was either benched, suspended or failed to make the squad on most occasions. In October 2014, Ferdinand confirmed in an interview that he would retire at the end of the season, saying "I'm not fearful of retirement, I'm looking forward to it, I can see some good stuff hopefully happening ahead". 
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  • In May 2015, following their relegation, QPR announced the release of Ferdinand in the summer. He made only 12 appearances in his only season with the club. On 30 May 2015, Ferdinand announced his retirement from professional football, three days after leaving QPR.
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  • A lot was expected from Ferdinand by QPR when theY signed the experienced defender, but a horrendous season for the club in which they were relegated, meant that Ferdinand’s contract was not renewed and he had already decided to retire having made just 12 appearances for the club. It’s a shame, given just how much he has achieved in his career.
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