el puente aéreo

In the dynamic world of football, few events spark as much passion and controversy as a player transferring to a rival team. Over the years, iconic players have made moves that left fans shocked, outraged, and in some cases, feeling betrayed. Let's delve into the stories of some football legends who donned the label of traitor after transferring to their arch-rivals.

1. Luis Figo: The Galáctico Turncoat

In 2000, Luis Figo, a symbol of Barcelona's success, shocked the footballing world by making a high-profile switch to Real Madrid. The move came with a world-record transfer fee at that time, and Figo went from being a beloved figure at Camp Nou to the target of Barcelona fans' anger. Despite Figo's on-field brilliance for Los Blancos, his legacy remains tainted by the contentious nature of the transfer.

2. Ronaldo Nazário: Inter to AC Milan

Ronaldo Nazário, the Brazilian phenomenon, experienced a less-than-amicable transition in Italy. After his success at Inter Milan, Ronaldo made the unexpected move to AC Milan in 2007. This switch across the Milan divide added another chapter to the fierce rivalry between the two clubs. Despite his remarkable career, this transfer left a bitter taste for fans on both sides.

3. Luis Enrique: From Madrid to Barcelona

Luis Enrique, a versatile player, faced the ire of Real Madrid supporters when he switched allegiances to Barcelona in 1996. This move added fuel to the already intense El Clásico rivalry. Despite enjoying success with the Blaugrana, Enrique's past with their bitter rivals continued to cast a shadow over his career.

4. Wayne Rooney: Blue to Red

In the Premier League, Wayne Rooney's transfer from Everton to Manchester United in 2004 raised eyebrows and tempers. Rooney's rise to stardom at Everton made him a hometown hero, but his move to the Red Devils strained the relationship with Everton fans. Despite becoming United's all-time leading scorer, Rooney's initial departure left an indelible mark on his legacy.

5. Sol Campbell: North London Betrayal

Sol Campbell's move from Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal in 2001 remains one of the most infamous transfers in English football. The defender's decision to switch from the white of Spurs to the red of Arsenal sparked outrage among Tottenham faithful. Campbell went on to achieve success with the Gunners, but the manner of his departure ensured he would forever be a polarizing figure in North London.

In conclusion, these players, despite their immense contributions to the beautiful game, found themselves labeled as traitors due to their controversial transfers to rival teams. Football's emotional and tribal nature often magnifies these moves, making them enduring stories in the rich tapestry of the sport.