In the ever-evolving world of football, players often make unexpected career moves that not only surprise fans but also redefine their legacies.
Here are 10 shocking transfers where football stars prioritized financial gain, lifestyle changes, or new challenges over their longstanding associations with some of the world’s top clubs. From Premier League icons to global superstars, these moves have sparked debates about the motivations behind shifting careers across continents.
10. Wayne Rooney: Manchester United Icon to D.C. United
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, surprised fans by joining MLS side D.C. United in 2018. Despite a pay cut from his £300,000 weekly wage at United, Rooney still earned a substantial $3.5 million per year in the U.S., prioritizing playing time over his Premier League legacy.
9. Graziano Pellè: Southampton to Shandong Luneng
In 2016, Italian striker Graziano Pellè left Southampton for Chinese club Shandong Luneng, becoming one of the world’s highest-paid footballers at £350,000 per week. The £12 million transfer cut short his Premier League career but significantly boosted his bank account.
8. Ezequiel Lavezzi: PSG to Hebei China Fortune
In 2016, Argentine forward Ezequiel Lavezzi left Paris Saint-Germain for Hebei China Fortune, reportedly becoming the world’s highest-paid player at £798,000 a week. The move surprised many, as Lavezzi, then 30, traded competing for European glory for a lucrative payday in the Chinese Super League.
7. Hulk: Zenit to Shanghai SIPG’s Megadeal
In 2016, Brazilian forward Hulk made headlines with his €58.6 million transfer from Zenit St. Petersburg to Shanghai SIPG. This move set an Asian transfer record and reportedly earned Hulk a staggering £320,000 per week. The lucrative deal showcased China’s financial muscle in attracting top talent, but raised questions about prioritizing money over competitive football.
6. Carlos Tevez: European Success to Shanghai Shenhua
After successful stints with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Juventus, Carlos Tevez shocked the football world by joining Shanghai Shenhua in 2017. The move reportedly made him one of the highest-paid players globally, earning around $40 million per year. However, his time in China was short-lived and unproductive, scoring only four goals in 20 appearances before returning to Boca Juniors.
5. Oscar: Chelsea’s Rising Star to Shanghai SIPG
Oscar shocked the football world by leaving Chelsea for Shanghai SIPG in 2017 for £60 million. The Brazilian midfielder, then 25, reportedly earned over £400,000 per week in China. After eight years in Shanghai, Oscar is finalizing a return to Brazil with Sao Paulo in 2024.
4. Karim Benzema: Real Madrid Legend to Al-Ittihad
Karim Benzema shocked the soccer world in 2023 by leaving Real Madrid after 14 successful years to join Saudi club Al-Ittihad. The Ballon d’Or winner signed a lucrative contract worth €200 million per season, prioritizing financial gain over continuing his legacy at one of Europe’s top clubs.
3. Lionel Messi: Unexpected Move to Inter Miami
In July 2023, Lionel Messi shocked the soccer world by joining Inter Miami, an MLS club co-owned by David Beckham. The Argentine superstar signed a contract until 2025, turning down more lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and a potential return to Barcelona. Messi’s decision prioritized lifestyle and long-term business opportunities in the U.S. market over immediate financial gain.
2. Neymar: Barcelona to PSG and Beyond
Neymar’s €222 million transfer from Barcelona to PSG in 2017 shattered records. His annual salary at PSG reached €57.2 million. In 2023, he moved to Al-Hilal for €90 million, earning a staggering €101 million annually. Despite limited playtime due to injuries, Neymar’s financial gains have overshadowed his on-field legacy.
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1. Cristiano Ronaldo: From Real Madrid to Al Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo shocked the soccer world by joining Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr in 2023, leaving behind his illustrious career in Europe. The Portuguese superstar signed a contract worth a reported $200 million per year, making him the highest-paid footballer in history. Despite rumors of a potential return to Europe, Ronaldo remains committed to Al Nassr as of 2025.
