#2. Ashley Cole – Wiliam Gallas (Chelsea & Arsenal)
The ill-fated swap deal between Chelsea and Arsenal involving William Gallas and Ashley Cole initially seemed like a logical trade. Gallas, eager to depart Chelsea, and discontented Ashley Cole traded places in a deal that included an extra £5 million for Arsenal. However, Chelsea emerged as the undeniable victor.
Cole soared to new heights with Chelsea, clinching the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, and four FA Cup titles, solidifying his status as one of the Premier League’s greatest full-backs. Meanwhile, Gallas’s career spiralled downward, marked by internal conflicts and infamous incidents like kicking advertising hoardings in frustration. The trade’s aftermath showcased the stark contrast in the trajectories of these two players.