Arsene Wenger is renowned for making some brilliant signings. The Frenchman signed the likes of Thierry Henry, Cesc Fabregas, Robert Pires, Robin Van Persie amongst many more, but not all of his signings shared the same success as the above players, so I decided to list six of his worst signings; the flops.
Francis Jeffers 2001-2004
Wenger signed Jeffers from Everton for circa £8 million. He was tipped to be a star at Highbury with his predatory instinct in the box, but it wasn’t to be. Jeffers saw his chances become limited with the emergence of a frontline heralding Sylvain Wiltord and Henry. He scored eight goals in 39 appearances for the Gunners before returning to Everton. He has a 100% goal scoring record for England.
Philippe Senderos 2004–2010
Senderos was signed from Swiss club Servette and was tipped to bring solidity to the back line. His first season was marred by injuries and the following seasons were mediocre to say the least and he was often at fault for opposition goals. He even admitted to be in tears after a Champions League defeat against Liverpool after being blamed for a couple of goals from Liverpool. He moved to AC Milan in the summer of 2008 and has not quite gone on to have the career most expected.
Sebastian Squillaci 2010-2013
This French international was another centre back who failed to establish himself at Arsenal. The former Sevilla man was prone to errors and was replaced by German Per Mertesacker. He made a total of 23 appearances in the league in his time with the Gunners before leaving for French club Bastia. Marred by criticism.
Andre Santos 2011-2013
This left-back was signed from Fenerbahce for approximately €7 million but never hit the ground running. He suffered the wrath of Wenger when he swapped shirts with Manchester United’s Robin Van Persie after the half-time whistle. The Brazilian international moved back to his home country to play for Gremio and Flamengo and also starred in the Indian Super League for Goa. Remembered for his calm finish against Chelsea in the impressive 5-3 victory at Stamford Bridge.
Marouane Chamakh 2010-2013
The acquisition of Chamakh was thought to be a major coup after he impressed in the French league, but he failed to hit the heights at the Emirates stadium and endured a frustrating spell. The Moroccan international now plays for Crystal Palace.
Denilson 2006-2013
The Brazilian was a promising player when he arrived from Sao Paulo as a teenager. While he did score the odd long-range goal, he failed to convince Wenger and Arsenal fans, so he made a return to Sao Paulo. He now plays for Al-Wahda in Abu Dhabi. Regarded as a total flop by the Arsenal faithful.
Have we missed anyone out or do you disagree with our selections? Let us know your top five by commenting down below.
