The Flopped XI: Premier League's Biggest Disappointments of 2023
As the curtain draws on another Premier League season, we turn our attention not just to the champions and heroes, but also to those who fell short of expectations. Here, we present the "Flopped XI" – a team of players who, for one reason or another, disappointed us the most in 2023:
Goalkeeper:
- André Onana (Manchester United): Arriving with the fanfare of a "De Gea replacement," Onana has become a symbol of United's transfer woes. Inconsistent performances and high-profile blunders have left fans yearning for the Spaniard's return.
Defenders:
- Reece James (Chelsea): A year plagued by injuries has seen James' attacking spark and defensive solidity dwindle. Missing the World Cup was the icing on a bitter cake for the once-reliable Blues defender.
- Eric Dier (Tottenham): From World Cup hero to fringe player, Dier's fall from grace has been stark. His lack of pace and positional awareness raise questions about his future at Tottenham.
- Enzo Fernández (Chelsea): The most expensive signing in Premier League history has yet to justify his hefty price tag. Struggles with the pace and physicality of the English game have left him looking lost at times.
Midfielders:
- Mason Mount (Manchester United): A high-profile transfer from Chelsea turned into a nightmare. Injuries and a dip in form have rendered Mount unrecognizable from the playmaker who dominated at Stamford Bridge.
- Christian Eriksen (Brentford): The fairytale comeback story seemed destined for a happy ending at Brentford. Unfortunately, Eriksen's heart issues have restricted his playing time and dampened the initial euphoria.
- Paul Pogba (Manchester United): Pogba's second stint at United has been a frustrating saga of injuries, inconsistency, and transfer speculation. His flashes of brilliance haven't been enough to mask the overall disappointment.
Forwards:
- Antony (Manchester United): Another big-money United signing who hasn't delivered. Antony's one-footedness and questionable decision-making have made him a target for criticism, despite glimpses of his undoubted talent.
- Marcus Rashford (Manchester United): A shadow of his former self, Rashford's confidence and finishing touch have deserted him. His struggles reflect the wider malaise plaguing United's attack.
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