By Guest Writer Ryan Kane.
Dimitar Berbatov and Roque Santa Cruz, for them the move to Manchester has been a curse, leaving their reputation as world class strikers in tatters. Berbatov joined Manchester United from Tottenham in September 2008 as a replacement for the outgoing Louis Saha. The Bulgarian, who signed for an initial fee of £23.4 million, had been in scintillating form for Spurs prior to his move north.
Santa Cruz had also been a fan’s favourite before making the switch to Manchester. The Paraguayan striker signed for Manchester City from Blackburn Rovers in 2009 for a reported £17.5 million. A succession of injuries has prevented the 28-year old from playing many matches since his arrival at Eastland’s.
Berbatov, the 6-time Bulgarian player of the Year has only managed 21 goals to date in his two seasons at United. The 29-year olds dismal performances have now resulted in speculation linking him with a move away from Old Trafford. United’s new Mexican signing Javier Hernandez along with speculation linking Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema to the club may signify that Berbatov is no longer part of Sir Alex’s future plans.
Santa Cruz who has managed just 3 goals in 19 appearances for City thus far said last week that he was “very happy” at the club and that he will do his best to “help the team improve” next season. Again rumours have linked the striker with a move away from cash-rich Manchester City following a poor first season at the club.
The Eastland’s club are said to value Santa Cruz, who had a sluggish World Cup campaign with Paraguay, in the region of £15 million. United on the other hand are said to value 29-year old Berbatov, who has been linked with a move back to the Bundesliga, in the region of £20 million.
Will these two misfits find themselves at their respective clubs for the start of the 2010/11 Premier League campaign? Who knows, Fans however feel that their club’s should cash-in on these costly flops.
