The worst signings in the Premier League of 2024: failed investments

The Premier League, renowned for its dynamism and competitiveness, has seen multi-million-pound signings that sometimes fail to meet expectations. The 2024-2025 season was no exception, featuring additions that, instead of providing value, have been deemed significant disappointments. Here, we analyze the most notable cases of failed investments this season.

Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt joined Manchester United with the mission of solidifying their defensive line. However, his performance has fallen short of expectations. Costly mistakes and poor adaptation to Erik ten Hag's tactical system have drawn criticism from fans and the press alike. The investment made by the Red Devils has not translated into on-field success, positioning him as one of the season’s worst signings.

After an underwhelming loan spell at Atlético Madrid, João Félix returned to Chelsea with hopes of reviving his career. However, his performance has been lackluster, failing to make a significant impact on Chelsea’s attack. His inability to adapt and lack of consistency have made his signing a failed bet for the London club.

English striker Eddie Nketiah arrived at Crystal Palace with the expectation of becoming their key goal scorer. However, his contribution has been minimal, registering just one goal in minor competitions. The £30 million investment has not been justified, and his inefficiency in front of goal has caused concern among the coaching staff and fans.

Young Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee joined Manchester United as a prospect for the future. However, his impact has been almost nonexistent, with little playing time and no goals to his name. The lack of opportunities and adaptation to the Premier League’s demanding pace have turned his signing into a disappointment for the Red Devils.

Once nicknamed the "Yorkshire Pirlo," Kalvin Phillips was transferred to Ipswich Town with hopes of leading their midfield. However, his performance has been poor, riddled with mistakes and a clear lack of fitness. The high expectations surrounding his signing have faded, marking him as one of the worst additions this season.

English midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was signed by Chelsea for a considerable sum. However, his participation has been minimal, with barely any minutes on the pitch. Competition in Chelsea’s midfield and his failure to adapt have relegated him to the background, raising questions about the logic behind his acquisition.

German forward Niclas Füllkrug joined West Ham with the mission of providing goals and experience. However, his performance has been disappointing, failing to adapt to English football and quickly losing his starting spot. The investment in his signing has not paid off, leaving his future at the club uncertain.

Known for his prowess in set-pieces, James Ward-Prowse was signed by Nottingham Forest to bring quality to their midfield. However, his performance has been underwhelming, with defensive mistakes and a lack of impact in his specialty. His signing has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.

Chilean-English forward Ben Brereton Díaz returned to the Premier League with Southampton after a standout spell at Sheffield United. However, his performance has been poor, collecting more yellow cards than goals and losing his starting role. The English press has labeled him as one of the worst signings of the season, and his future at the club remains uncertain.

Norwegian midfielder Sander Berge was signed by Fulham to strengthen their midfield after Joao Palhinha’s departure to Bayern Munich. However, his impact has been limited, with little playing time and no justification for the investment made in his acquisition. His lack of prominence has raised doubts about his future with the team.

The 2024-2025 Premier League season has shown that expensive signings do not always guarantee success on the pitch. Factors such as adaptation to playing style, media pressure, and excessive expectations can negatively impact players’ performances.