Sometimes big names don’t always live up to expectations in football.
A whole host of big names have walked through the doors at Stoke’s bet365 Stadium and have been unable to live up to the expectations of Stoke fans.
In this article we’ll be looking at eight Stoke City signings that supporters would rather forget…
Michael Owen
Michael Owen signed a one-year deal with Stoke for the 2012/13 season, marking the twilight of his career. Despite the Ballon d’Or winner’s limited eight substitute appearances, he secured his 150th Premier League goal against Swansea.
Wilfred Bony
Wilfred Bony, on loan from Manchester City in 2016, struggled at Stoke, scoring only twice, both goals against Swansea. His fallout with manager Mark Hughes and representing the Ivory Coast in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations added to the disappointment.
Kevin Wimmer
Austrian defender Kevin Wimmer’s £18 million move in 2017 turned disastrous, making 17 appearances in Stoke’s relegation season. After loan spells in Germany and Belgium, his contract was terminated in 2021. He now plays for Slovan Bratislavia.
Saido Berahino
Saido Berahino, signed from West Brom in 2017, had a goalless 2017/18 season but fared better in the Championship before moving to Zulte Waregem. Now 30, he plays in Cyprus for AEL Limassol.
Giannelli Imbula
Defensive midfielder Giannelli Imbula’s £18 million move in 2016 soured, with just 12 appearances in 2016/17. Loan spells followed before his contract termination in February 2020. He now plays for Istanbulspor in Turkey.
Brek Shea
American international Brek Shea joined Stoke in 2013 but struggled, making few appearances before loans to Championship sides. He retired in 2023 after spells with various MLS clubs.
Eidur Gudjohnsen
Eidur Gudjohnsen’s one-year deal with Stoke in the 2010/11 season yielded only five substitute appearances. He joined Fulham on loan, later moving to AEK Athens before retiring in 2016.
Shay Given
Irish goalkeeperShay Given joined Stoke in 2015 as cover for Jack Butland. Despite a celebrated career, his performances conceded goals, highlighting a decline in form.
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