The grass isn’t always greener elsewhere, as StokeonTrentLive reflects on players who regret leaving Stoke City.
Not many players have thrived at Stoke City only to hit a dead end after leaving for brighter prospects. During Stoke’s peak in the Premier League, they managed to retain key talents like Ryan Shawcross, Jon Walters, and Glenn Whelan, while Steven Nzonzi’s move to Sevilla proved fruitful, with a Europa League title and a World Cup winner’s medal to his name. Marko Arnautovic likely doesn’t regret his transfer either, as his bank account grew while the club faced relegation. Meanwhile, Robert Huth, who initially didn’t want to leave, ended up winning the Premier League with Leicester City.
However, not all exits have panned out positively for those who seemed destined for greatness in red and white. We’ve identified eight players who left Stoke and might have second thoughts about their decisions.
Dujon Sterling
Initially a key player on loan from Chelsea in the 2022/23 season, Dujon Sterling showcased his skills at both right and left-back. Yet, instead of returning to Stoke when his loan ended, he opted for a long-term deal with Rangers, citing the allure of European football. A year later, he finds himself on the bench in Glasgow, having made only a handful of appearances.
Peter Etebo
Etebo never truly felt at home in the Championship, having been signed before the arrival of Gary Rowett. After a series of disappointing loans to Getafe, Galatasaray, Watford, and Aris, the midfielder struggled to regain momentum. At just 28, he’s now trying to revitalize his career in the Turkish second division with Genclerbirligi.
Ramadan Sobhi
Stoke’s signing of Ramadan Sobhi garnered excitement among fans, especially given the attention from his home country, Egypt. Although he showcased glimpses of talent, the Premier League proved challenging, and his career trajectory saw him return to Egypt, where he played for Al Ahly and Pyramids but without the initial spotlight.
Philipp Wollscheid
Wollscheid was a regular contributor during his time at Stoke, yet after falling out of favor, he faced a rapid decline in his career. After a loan spell at Wolfsburg and a stint with Metz, he found himself retiring at just 28. He has since taken on roles in futsal and coaching.
Asmir Begovic
Begovic enjoyed a solid run at Stoke but faced challenges after moving to Chelsea, where he often found himself on the bench. While he relishes his Premier League winner’s medal, he admits it was a difficult time, stating, “It was too early for me.” Despite limited game time, he cherishes the experience of training among top talents.
Oussama Assaidi
The quick and skillful winger faced significant injury problems, limiting his time on the pitch. Although he left Stoke mid-way through the 2014/15 season, his subsequent career was marred by inconsistency, playing in the UAE and briefly returning to the Netherlands without finding his earlier form.
Lee Hendrie
Hendrie made a significant impact during his loan from Aston Villa in 2006, helping to galvanize the team during a crucial period. However, after choosing to sign with Sheffield United over a return to Stoke, he reflected on this decision as one of his biggest regrets, noting that it adversely affected his career trajectory.
Neil Franklin
Once hailed as a top defender, Franklin’s career took an unexpected turn when he chose to play in a rebel league in Colombia instead of joining the England World Cup squad. This decision effectively ended his time in top-flight football, leading to a turbulent exit from Stoke and a subsequent transfer to Hull City.
These players exemplify the challenges and uncertainties of pursuing opportunities elsewhere, leaving them to ponder what might have been had they stayed at Stoke City.
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