5 World Cup-inspired signings who flopped in the Premier League

#2 Kleberson

Kleberson and Cristiano Ronaldo Sign For Manchester United — Kleberson is now considered one of Alex Ferguson's worst ever signings

While Brazilian midfielder Kleberson didn’t move in the summer directly following the 2002 World Cup, it was his performances in that tournament – starring from midfield and setting up a goal in the final as Brazil defeated Germany to win the competition – that inspired Alex Ferguson to shell out £6.5m to bring him to Manchester United in the summer of 2003.

Ferguson was hoping the Brazilian would be able to replace the outgoing Juan Veron as the driving force in United’s midfield, but Kleberson simply didn’t seem up to the task from day one. He injured himself in his second outing for United and ended the 2003/04 season having made just 12 appearances.

By 2004/05 he was already considered a flop signing by the Red Devils’ fanbase, and in turn that meant that he lost his place in Brazil’s starting line-up too, despite playing in the La Selecao side that won the 2004 Copa America.

After just eight Premier League appearances in his second season at United, he was offloaded to Turkish side Besiktas – at a financial loss – and is now considered arguably Ferguson’s worst-ever signing.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Alan John