Mumbai, September 5: In football, assembling a squad of superstars doesn't always guarantee success. There are many occasions, when a team starts the season with high expectations, only to fall short of their goals. Let's explore some examples of teams that, despite their star-studded lineups, failed to achieve the success they were expected to. End of an Era: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi Absent From Ballon d’Or 2024 Nominations for First Time in Over 20 Years.
Real Madrid (2003-04)
This Real Madrid team featured stars like Roberto Carlos, David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo Nazario, Raul, Guti, and Iker Casillas. Despite the talent, they fell short of reaching the Champions League semifinals and finished fourth in La Liga.
Manchester United (2021-22)
It was the homecoming of Cristiano Ronaldo after 12 years. This United team consisted players like Paul Pogba, Jadon Sancho, Bruno Fernandes, David De Gea, Varane, and Marcus Rashford but still could not win any trophies.
AC Milan (2008-09)
Despite boasting stars like Ronaldinho, Kaka, Seedorf, Maldini, Pato, David Beckham, Gattuso, and Nesta, the team failed to win any championships that season.
Barcelona (2007-08)
Barcelona had players like Lionel Messi, Henry, Samuel Eto'o, Iniesta, Deco, Xavi, Yaya Toure, Puyol, and Valdes and still they could not manage to win anything that season. FC Barcelona New Away Kit for 2024–25 Season Unveiled: See Pic and Video of Secondary Jersey To Be Worn by Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal and Others.
Paris Saint Germain (2021-23)
Paris Saint Germain could not manage to win the Champions League despite signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona. They had players like Neymar Jr., Kylian Mbappe, Hakimi, Donaruma, Marquinhos, and Sergio Ramos.