The world of football is constantly evolving, and transfers are a vital part of this change. A successful transfer can completely change the dynamics of a team and have a significant impact on their performance. As the 2020/2021 season comes to a close, it’s time to look back at the top 10 transfers that have truly changed the game. These transfers have not only made headlines but have also brought success and glory for their respective teams.
The Importance of Transfers in Football
In the world of football, transfers are an essential aspect of building a successful team. A great transfer can be a perfect match, making a team even stronger and more competitive. On the other hand, a wrong transfer can result in a significant setback for a club, both financially and on the field.
The transfer market is a fast-paced and highly competitive environment, with top teams vying for the best players in the world. It takes skill, strategy, and a significant financial investment to secure a transfer that will change the game for a team. As we look back at the 2020/2021 season, there have been some transfers that have undoubtedly changed the game and made a significant impact on their teams.
Top 10 Transfers That Made a Difference
1. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United
Arguably the most significant transfer of the 2020/2021 season was Bruno Fernandes’ move from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United. Amidst doubts and skepticism from the media, Fernandes has proved to be a game-changer for the Red Devils. Since his arrival, Manchester United’s form has vastly improved, and Fernandes has become their talisman and key playmaker. His contribution of 28 goals and 17 assists in all competitions has been instrumental in Manchester United’s resurgence and securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.
2. Ruben Dias – Manchester City
Another Portuguese player whose transfer has been a game-changer is Ruben Dias. Manchester City’s defense had been shaky in the previous season, and their lack of a solid center-back was evident. However, with Dias’ arrival from Benfica, the Cityzens’ backline has been transformed. Dias formed a formidable partnership with John Stones, helping the team achieve a record-breaking 21 clean sheets in the Premier League. His leadership and defensive prowess were crucial in Manchester City’s Premier League triumph and reaching the Champions League final.
3. Thiago – Liverpool
Liverpool’s midfield was dealt a significant blow when their star player, Georginio Wijnaldum, left for Paris Saint-Germain. However, the Reds quickly filled the void by securing the transfer of Thiago from Bayern Munich. The Spanish midfielder’s technical ability and passing range have been a game-changer for Liverpool’s style of play. Despite injuries, Thiago has still managed to make a significant impact and was instrumental in their final run-in to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.
4. Edinson Cavani – Manchester United
Another transfer that has made a significant impact at Old Trafford is that of Edinson Cavani. The veteran striker joined Manchester United on a free transfer, and many questioned if he could still perform at the highest level. However, Cavani proved his doubters wrong by providing crucial goals and experience for the Red Devils. His dramatic late winner against Southampton and brace against Roma in the Europa League are just a few examples of how he has changed the game for Manchester United this season.
5. Thomas Partey – Arsenal
Arsenal’s midfield has been lacking a dominant presence for some time, and they finally found it in Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian international joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid and has been a commanding figure in midfield. His strong tackling and passing abilities have added a new dimension to Arsenal’s play, and they have been a much better team with him in the starting eleven. Despite a few injury setbacks, Partey has been a significant signing for Arsenal and has helped them to secure a place in the Europa League next season.
6. Hakim Ziyech – Chelsea
Chelsea made some big-money signings last summer, but it was the relatively affordable transfer of Hakim Ziyech that made the most impact. The Moroccan winger joined the Blues from Ajax and has been one of their most creative and dangerous players this season. His vision, passing, and set-piece ability have been crucial in Chelsea’s success in both the Premier League and Champions League. Ziyech’s performances have made him a fan favorite at Stamford Bridge, and he has proven to be a vital addition to Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
7. Achraf Hakimi – Inter Milan
Inter Milan’s transfer of Achraf Hakimi from Real Madrid was one of the most talked-about deals of the 2020/2021 season. The Moroccan wing-back’s pace, skill, and versatility have been a game-changer for the Nerazzurri. Hakimi’s explosive runs and deliveries have added a new dimension to Inter’s attack, and he has been a significant contributor to their Serie A title triumph. His performances have caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs, and he could be an essential player for Inter in the upcoming season.
8. Tomas Soucek – West Ham United
West Ham United’s transfer of Tomas Soucek from Slavia Prague has been an absolute steal for the club. The Czech midfielder joined the Hammers in January 2020 and has been an integral part of their success this season. Soucek has been a dominant force in midfield, both defensively and offensively, and has been a crucial contributor to West Ham’s push for a top-four finish in the Premier League. His presence in the team has been vital, and he has become a fan favorite at the London Stadium.
9. Lautaro Martinez – Inter Milan
Inter Milan’s attack has been rejuvenated this season, thanks to the partnership of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine striker has been in terrific form this season, scoring 17 goals in Serie A and forming a deadly partnership with Lukaku. Martinez’s speed, dribbling, and finishing have been a threat to every opposition and have helped Inter clinch their first Serie A title in eleven years. His performances have also caught the attention of top clubs in Europe, but Inter is sure to hold on to their star striker.
10. Pedro Neto – Wolverhampton Wanderers
The final transfer on our list is Wolverhampton Wanderers’ signing of Pedro Neto from Lazio. The Portuguese winger has been a revelation for the Wolves and has become one of the most promising young players in the Premier League. His pace, skill, and eye for goal have made him a key player for the Wolves, and he has been their most consistent performer this season. Despite the team’s struggles, Neto has been a shining light, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by some of Europe’s top clubs.
In Conclusion
The 2020/2021 season has been full of exciting transfers, but these 10 have undoubtedly changed the game and made a significant impact on their respective teams. These players have not only added quality but have also brought success and glory to their clubs. As we look ahead to the upcoming season, it will be interesting to see how these transfers continue to shape the world of football.
