The return of a footballer to their previous club is always captivating. It could be motivated by unresolved goals, devotion to the fans, or a desire to revisit a cherished bond with their old team.
Seeing a player come back and wear the familiar kit again often evokes nostalgia and sparks enthusiasm among supporters. While these comebacks aren`t always successful, they always have a compelling narrative.
Let`s explore five Premier League players who felt compelled to rejoin their former clubs and see how those returns played out.
Didier Drogba – Chelsea
Didier Drogba is recognised as a Chelsea icon and one of their leading goalscorers. Joining the Blues in 2004, he helped them secure multiple league titles and was crucial in their historic 2012 Champions League victory, netting both the equalizer and the decisive penalty.
Although he departed Chelsea the same year, his link with the club remained strong. In 2014, he made an exciting one-season comeback, delighting the supporters.
During this period, Drogba utilized his extensive experience to mentor younger players while also contributing several important goals. His return highlighted the deep connection between the player and the club.
Wayne Rooney – Everton
Wayne Rooney`s career began at Everton, the club he supported as a boy, before his high-profile transfer to Manchester United. Over his career, he became a legend for both his club and his country.
After thirteen seasons with United, Rooney returned to Goodison Park in 2017, where Everton fans warmly welcomed him back.
Playing again for Merseyside, Rooney showcased everything he had learned, scoring memorable goals like his strike from the halfway line against West Ham. Although his second stint lasted only one season, it held significant meaning for the fans.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo first joined Manchester United as a teenager in 2003 and became a central figure during a highly successful era.
After moving to Spain and then Italy, few anticipated his return. However, in 2021, Ronaldo made a much-publicized comeback to Old Trafford.
His return generated global football buzz, and fans were thrilled to see him scoring in a red shirt again. While this period had its challenges, supporters had long dreamed of this moment, making it a memorable chapter for the club.
Thierry Henry – Arsenal
Thierry Henry is firmly established as one of Arsenal`s greatest legends. His initial spell saw him become the club`s record goalscorer and a fan favourite at both Highbury and the Emirates.
Henry left for Barcelona in 2007 but couldn`t stay away permanently. In 2012, he made an emotional return to Arsenal on a short-term loan.
Despite only playing a few games in North London, Henry made an impact, famously scoring a late winner against Leeds in the FA Cup. His brief comeback served as a reminder of the excitement and quality he brought to the club.
Gareth Bale – Tottenham Hotspur
Gareth Bale initially gained prominence at Tottenham, where his speed and skill on the wing illuminated the Premier League. His performances earned him a move to Real Madrid in 2013.
Following several successful years abroad, Bale returned to Spurs on loan in 2020. This generated considerable excitement among fans eager to witness his attacking talent back at the club.
His return produced several memorable moments and once again demonstrated his skill, even though it was only for a single season. For the supporters, seeing Bale back at Tottenham was a welcome echo of his earlier achievements.
