<p><strong>Samuel Eto’o is one of the most influential African players in soccer history, playing a pivotal role in one of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/barcelona" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FC Barcelona</a>’s most successful eras.</strong> A standout performer under Frank Rijkaard, he shared the field with Ronaldinho and solidified his status as an elite forward. Having played alongside some of the game’s greatest legends, <strong>Eto’o weighed in on who he believes is the best soccer player of all time.</strong></p>



<p>In a 2020 interview with Diario Marca,<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/samuel-etoo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samuel Eto’o</a> was asked about FC Barcelona’s reliance on Lionel Messi that season.</strong> The African legend responded: <em>”It’s normal. <strong>Leo is the best player in the world and the best of all time.</strong> I’d always pick the team asking Messi who he wanted next to him, in his team. Every team in the world wants Messi. Then,<strong> you have to give him support. He can’t run like a 25-year-old kid anymore, although he does sometimes.</strong>”</em></p>



<p><strong>Samuel Eto’o had the opportunity to play with players like Ronaldinho, Andres Iniesta, Frank Lampard and Thierry Henry but still decided to choose Lionel Messi as the best player of all time. </strong>Samuel Eto’o thrived even under Pep Guardiola, despite it being his final season at Barcelona before the Catalan coach requested his transfer.</p>



<p><strong>The African legend had the opportunity to play alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a>, delivering an outstanding season with 36 goals and 8 assists in 52 appearances.</strong> After departing Barcelona, he continued to shine at Inter Milan, where he accomplished the extraordinary feat of winning the treble. In doing so,<strong> he became the only player in history to achieve this milestone with two different clubs in consecutive seasons.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/03130050/lionel-messi-samuel-etoo-1024x559-1024x559.webp" alt="lionel-messi-samuel-etoo" class="wp-image-327290" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Lionel Messi (L) of Barcelona celebrates with Samuel Eto’o after scoring Barcelona’s first goal during the Primera Liga match between Barcelona and Real Madrid at the Nou Camp stadium on March 10, 2007 in Barcelona, Spain. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Despite his historic run at FC Barcelona, Samuel Eto’o also played for Real Madrid</h2>



<p><strong>Samuel Eto’o took his first step into European soccer through <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a>, </strong>joining the club in the 1996-97 season from Kadji SA of the Cameroonian league. However, he initially played for Real Madrid B, the club’s second team, and was subsequently loaned out three times, to CD Leganes, RCD Espanyol, and RCD Mallorca.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/former-cristiano-ronaldo-teammate-speaks-out-on-fc-barcelona-youngster-lamine-yamal" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250131_BUS_325392_cristiano-ronaldo-12.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="A former Juventus teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo, who also played alongside stars like Mesut Ozil and Gianluigi Buffon, shares his thoughts on FC Barcelona&apos;s rising talent, Lamine Yamal.
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<p><strong>Before being permanently transferred to Mallorca in 2004, Eto’o managed to make just seven appearances for Real Madrid’s first team</strong> but never had the chance to complete a full season with the club.</p>



<p><em><strong>“I don’t have any problem with Real Madrid, they gave me the opportunity to dream of being a footballer</strong>, I didn’t have the chance to play at Real Madrid. I had success elsewhere and the Cule feeling came through,”</em> stated Samuel Eto’o to Diario Marca.</p>



<p>Even though he did not have the chance to play for Real Madrid’s first team, <strong>Eto’o expressed gratitude to the club for giving him the opportunity to begin his career in European soccer.</strong> However, despite this appreciation, <strong>he openly declared himself a “Cule,” as he found success at FC Barcelona</strong>, where he was given the platform to showcase his pure talent on one of the best teams in the world.</p>


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Samuel Eto’o names his pick for the greatest soccer player ever

Cristiano Ronaldo sends bold message to Real Madrid fans about Kylian Mbappe

Inter Miami confirm Lionel Messi loses another Argentine teammate for 2025 MLS season

Former FC Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o reveals the greatest soccer player of all time - Bolavip US

Former FC Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o reveals the greatest soccer player of all time

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<p>Manchester City midfielder Rodri took home the 2024 Ballon d’Or in a ceremony that notably lacked appearances from <strong>Lionel Messi </strong>and <strong>Cristiano Ronaldo</strong>, two players who dominated the award over the past decade. But former <strong>Real Madrid </strong>manager <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jose-mourinho">Jose Mourinho</a> </strong>highlighted an overlooked striker who, in his opinion, deserved to win the Ballon d’Or but was never in serious contention.</p>



<p>Now coaching at Fenerbahçe, Mourinho named an African forward he believes deserved the honor—though it wasn’t Chelsea legend Didier Drogba or Liverpool star Mo Salah.<strong> Mourinho’s pick is former Barcelona striker</strong> <strong>Samuel Eto’o</strong>.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>It’s hard to understand how Samuel Eto’o never won the Ballon d’Or, given his remarkable career,”</strong></em> Mourinho told <em>Cameroon Radio</em> in an interview. <em><strong>“</strong>Samuel played for top teams in the world’s best leagues. He scored a massive amount of goals and succeeded across different leagues,<strong>”</strong></em> he added.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>He played in three Champions League finals, won two with Barcelona, scoring in both</strong>, and then won another with Inter Milan along with several league titles,” </em>Mourinho continued. “<em><strong>He was the best forward in the world for many years, and I believe he deserved a Ballon d’Or.</strong> But it’s beyond our control.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27154521/jose-mourinho-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-271177" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho speaks to Samuel Eto’o during a UEFA Champions League match. IMAGO / Gribaudi/ImagePhoto</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mourinho’s admiration for Samuel Eto’o</h2>



<p>Samuel Eto’o retired from professional soccer in 2019 and now serves as <strong>President of the Cameroon Football Federation.</strong> Reflecting on the Cameroonian’s illustrious career, Mourinho spoke highly of Eto’o’s character both on and off the field.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/chelsea-legend-didier-drogba-names-the-player-who-should-have-won-the-ballon-dor" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241102_BUS_264226_drogba.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Chelsea’s iconic forward Didier Drogba stated there’s one player who, despite never winning the Ballon d&apos;Or, deserved it more than anyone.
" title="Chelsea legend Didier Drogba names the player who should have won the Ballon d&apos;Or" publication_id="BUS#/soccer/chelsea-legend-didier-drogba-names-the-player-who-should-have-won-the-ballon-dor"></div>


<p>Mourinho and Eto’o crossed paths at Inter Milan, where they famously won the treble, and again briefly at Chelsea. Mourinho’s impression of Eto’o is enduring: <em>“He was nearly unstoppable on the field, but his qualities as a man are just as important.<strong> He was a great teammate and would do whatever it took for his team to win</strong>,”</em> Mourinho said.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>Samuel was a phenomenal player. </strong>The most important thing for any player is how they contribute to their team’s victories, and Samuel was an outstanding individual talent who always put the team first,” </em>Mourinho added. “<strong><em>He always gave everything for his team’s success. He’s a trophy winner. He won it all and had a phenomenal career.”</em></strong></p>



<h2>Eto’o’s remarkable career</h2>



<p>The remarkable career of Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto’o truly supports Mourinho’s statements. Eto’o’s list of accolades is impressive, headlined by <strong>four UEFA Champions League titles</strong>, a feat made even more remarkable because he won with three different clubs: <strong>Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan.</strong></p>



<p>At Barcelona, Eto’o also captured <strong>three La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey</strong>, adding another Spanish Cup title during his tenure with <strong>Mallorca</strong>. Eto’o’s international success with Cameroon was equally impressive, with <strong>two Africa Cup of Nations victories </strong>and a <strong>gold medal from the 2000 Sydney Olympics</strong> showcasing his contributions on the global stage.</p>


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Former Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho reveals who should have won the Ballon d’Or

Jose Mourinho makes something clear about Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ballon d’Or wins

Mourinho reveals who is the most talented soccer player: “Neither Messi nor Cristiano surpasses him”

Former Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho reveals who should have won the Ballon d’Or - Bolavip US

<p>In a shocking scene following the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/qatar2022/Brazil-vs-South-Korea-TV-Channel-how-and-where-to-watch-or-live-stream-online-free-Qatar-2022-World-Cup-in-your-country--20221204-0039.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">4-1 round of 16 victory by Brazil</a> over South Korea, Cameroon and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/Barcelona-coach-Xavi-predicts-2022-23-UEFA-Champions-League-final-20221205-0047.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Barcelona</a> legend <strong>Samuel Eto’o</strong> got into an altercation with a fan. Eto’o was taking selfies with various fans at the Stadium 974, while trying to get to his destination when a young man arrived, and a fight broke out.</p>
<p>The 41-year-old former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/Former-Brazil-star-Adriano-could-get-a-divorce-after-only-24-days-of-marriage-because-of-World-Cup-binge-20221205-0013.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Inter Milan</a> striker got in the face of a young man who held a camera in his hand. Eto’o was filmed saying something as the young man backtracked and Eto’o was restrained by a group of people.</p>
<p>Eventually Eto’o broke away and violently pushed and kicked the man in the chest making him fall back. Eto’o has yet to explain what happened.</p>
<h2>Why did Eto’o kick fan at World Cup?</h2>
<p>At the moment all Eto’o has stated about the incident is that he <strong><em>“was out of his mind”</em></strong>. Eto’o is an ambassador of the Qatar 2022 World Cup and is currently in charge of the Cameroonian soccer federation.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">�� Samuel Eto’o attacked a young man last night before the match between Brazil and South Korea. ��</p>
<p> (�� <a href="https://twitter.com/partidazocope?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@partidazocope</a>)</p>
<p> <a href="https://t.co/Q8YNbV9spu">pic.twitter.com/Q8YNbV9spu</a></p>
<p> — Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive)    <a href="https://twitter.com/DeadlineDayLive/status/1600027288849944577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a>   </p></blockquote>
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<p><strong>At the national team level Eto’o played 118 times for Cameroon scoring 56 goals. </strong>Eto’o is a veteran of the 1998, 2002, 2010 and 2014 World Cups.</p>
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Video: Samuel Eto'o attacks fan after World Cup clash between Brazil and South Korea

Video: Samuel Eto'o attacks fan after World Cup clash between Brazil and South Korea - Bolavip US

<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/la-liga-t48" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>La Liga</strong></a> is one of the most prestigious soccer leagues on the planet, and every season often comes down to its most attractive game: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/el-clasico-2021-when-did-the-rivalry-between-fc-barcelona-and-real-madrid-start-20211018-0014.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>El Clasico</strong></a>. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/barcelona-t11" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Barcelona</strong></a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/real-madrid-t23" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Real Madrid</strong></a> are two of the biggest clubs in the world and anytime they face is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-date-time-and-tv-channel-la-liga-20211021-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>a must-watch</strong></a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-when-will-el-clasico-be-played-for-la-liga-2021-22-20211014-0022.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This weekend</a>, Los Cules and Los Blancos will add <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/el-clasico-most-wins-of-all-time-20211017-0014.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">another chapter to their rivalry</a> when they face off at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-history-head-to-head-of-el-clasico-at-camp-nou-20211021-0018.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Camp Nou</strong></a>. To watch the game in the US, tune in to <a href="https://go.web.plus.espn.com/c/2743850/1161082/9070" rel="sponsored,nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>ESPN+</strong></a>. It looks like one of the most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/the-first-barcelona-vs-real-madrid-after-messi-and-ramos-one-of-the-most-even-clasicos-in-recent-memory-20211014-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">evenly-matched Clasicos</a> in a long time.</p>
<p>But, even though we’re talking about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/river-plate-vs-boca-juniors-superclasico-and-the-top-rivalries-in-soccer-20211001-0034.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one of the most intense rivalries on Earth</a>, the strong antagonism <strong>hasn’t prevented players from wearing both jerseys</strong>. Here, let’s break down some of the best to have worn both uniforms.</p>
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<h2>Ronaldo</h2>
<p>The Brazilian legend has spent only a season in Barcelona but it was one to remember, as he scored an impressive <strong>34 goals in 37 league matches</strong>. <strong>Ronaldo</strong>, who also <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/hakan-calhanoglu-joins-rivals-best-players-to-play-for-inter-and-milan-20210623-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">played both</a> for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/inter-t127" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Inter</strong></a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/ac-milan-t27122" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>AC Milan</strong></a>, joined Real Madrid in 2002. He won four titles and racked up 104 goals in 177 appearancesin his fiveseasonsinthe Spanish capital.</p>
<h2>Luis Figo</h2>
<p>Joining the rivals could be seen as a betrayal and fans may never forgive you for that. If not, ask <strong>Luis Figo</strong>, whose <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/messi-joins-psg-13-superstars-who-have-left-barcelona-on-bad-terms-20210811-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">controversial departure</a> from Barca to sign for Real Madridmade him lose all the love from Los Cules. He went on to be part of <strong>Los Galacticos</strong>, winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/champions-league-t24" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UEFA Champions League</strong></a>.</p>
<h2>Bernd Schuster</h2>
<p>But Figo wasn’t the only one who joined the rivals directly from Barcelona. <strong>Bernd Schuster</strong> did it before him in 1988. His career was <strong>full of controversial situations</strong> but also of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/who-is-more-successful-barcelona-or-real-madrid-20211017-0016.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">success</a>, as he enjoyed great results both with Barca and El Merengue.</p>
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<h2>Luis Enrique</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1634865822349/sites/bolavip/img/2021/10/21/luis_enrique_barcelona_player.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Luis Enrique playing for Barcelona. (Nuno Correia/Allsport UK/Allsport)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Beforemaking his way into Barcelona’s history books, <strong>Luis Enrique</strong> played for Real Madrid between 1991 and 1996. He won three titles and scored23 times in 241appearances, but those numbers would get much better in Barca. Five trophies and<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/el-clasico-all-time-top-goalscorer-20211017-0013.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">115 goals</a> in 333 matchesmade him a fan favorite, a love he renewed many years later as manager. At the helm of a team with the likes of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/lionel-messi-t13" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Lionel Messi</strong></a>, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Neymar</strong></a>, and <strong>Luis Suarez</strong> (the famous MSN) he delivered nine trophies.</p>
<h2>Samuel Eto’o</h2>
<p>His spell in Real Madrid may have gone unnoticed, but <strong>Samuel Eto’o</strong> played in the Spanish capital before shining at Barcelona. He played only seven games without scoring, and many years later, after a fantastic rise in <strong>Mallorca</strong>, he chose Los Cules over Madrid.</p>
<h2>Michael Laudrup</h2>
<p>Another player who switched Barca for Real Madrid, <strong>Michael Laudrup</strong> thrived at Camp Nou buthis bad relationship with <strong>Johan Cruyff</strong> made him leave the club in 1994, five years later after joining Los Cules from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/juventus-t12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Juventus</strong></a>.</p>
<h2>Javier Saviola</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1634865884880/sites/bolavip/img/2021/10/21/javier_saviola_real_madrid.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Javier Saviola played for both sides but he had a much better spell in Barcelona. (Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)   </figcaption></figure>
<p></p></div>
<p>Following a promising breakthroughin <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/river" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>River Plate</strong></a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/argentina-t30" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Argentina</strong></a>‘s U20s, Barcelona acquired Javier Saviola, who amassed 74 goals in 172 appearances in his four seasons at the club. But, after loan spells in <strong>Monaco</strong> and <strong>Sevilla</strong>, he didn’t renew with Barca and joined Real Madrid, where he spentonly two seasons and scored five goals in 31 appearances.</p>
<p><strong>Gheorghe Hagi</strong>, <strong>Julen Lopetegui</strong>, <strong>Robert Prosinecki</strong>, <strong>Alfonso Perez</strong>, <strong>Nando Muñoz</strong>,<strong> Luis Milla</strong>, <strong>Albert Celades</strong>, <strong>Daniel Garcia</strong>, and <strong>Ricardo Zamora</strong> were other players who worn both shirts. A current Real Madrid star was close to joining Barcelona as well, but that didn’t happen and he will face them this weekend in a game that will be broadcast by <a href="https://go.web.plus.espn.com/c/2743850/1161082/9070" rel="sponsored,nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ESPN+</a> in the US.<span></span></p>
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Barcelona vs Real Madrid legends: Which players have played for both sides?

Barcelona vs Real Madrid legends: Which players have played for both sides? - Bolavip US

<p>It’s been a wonderful ride, but it suddenly came to an end. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/lionel-messi-t13" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Lionel Messi</strong></a> will no longer play for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/barcelona-t11" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Barcelona</strong></a> after 16 seasons with the first team and nearly <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/how-old-was-lionel-messi-when-he-joined-barcelona-20210810-0022.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">21 years</a>since joining La Masía. One of thegreatest players of all time – if not the best, the Argentine superstar could have certainlyleft Barcain a better way <strong>after all he has done for the club</strong>.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, his journey has come to anabrupt endand he was unable tobid farewellto a packed Camp Nou. Messi is now in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/psg-t16721" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>PSG</strong></a> ready to embark on his first adventure awayfrom <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/how-long-has-lionel-messi-played-for-barcelona-20210805-0018.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Barcelona</a>, who – again – were incapable ofsaying goodbyeto a legend <strong>in the way he deserved</strong>.</p>
<p>Messi’s departure was probably the most hurtful one for Barca’s fans, but they’ve gone throughsimilar situations before. Here, we’ll take a look at the <strong>13 renowned players who have left Barcelona on bad terms</strong>.</p>
<h2>Lionel Messi</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628712952834/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/leo_messi_2020_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Lionel Messi left Barcelona and will play for PSG. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>The day we thought we would never see has finally happened, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-leaves-how-much-would-barcelona-lose-after-his-departure-20210809-0021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lionel Messi has left Barcelona</a> <strong>to join another European club</strong>. Sadly, <strong>his problems with the previous board over the last few years proved costly</strong> and, even though <strong>Joan Laporta</strong> seemed to be on better terms with him, things weren’t turned around. Only a year ago, the soccer world was in shock as Messi wanted out amid a terrible relationship with <strong>Josep María Bartomeu</strong>.</p>
<p>Ayear left on his contract prevented him from leaving for free, but that situation had a big impact. <strong>He didn’t sign a new deal</strong>and, once a free agent, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/la-liga-t48" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>La Liga</strong></a>‘s regulations forbid Barca from affording his new contract. He left better than he would have done it in 2020, but the way in which he left is still sour after everything he had lived in Barcelona.</p>
<h2>Luis Suárez</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628712987021/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/suarez_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Luis Suarez joined Atletico Madrid and won La Liga. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Messi’s desire to leave in 2020 didn’t come out of the blue. He wasn’t the only one to experience a bad moment at the club, if not ask <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/luis-suarez" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Luis Suárez</strong></a>. The Uruguayan striker has scored <strong>195 goals</strong> in six years at Barcelona and he could have left as the superstar he was.</p>
<p>Instead, a phone call was all he got. <strong>Ronald Koeman</strong> didn’t seem to have him on his plans but <strong>the situation could have been handled differently</strong>. Suárez didn’t take long to prove Barca were wrong on this one and went on to win La Liga 2020/21 with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/atletico-de-madrid-t133215" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atletico Madrid</strong></a>. Later, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/luis-suarez-opens-up-on-his-exit-from-barcelona-and-winning-la-liga-with-atletico-madrid-20210525-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">he reflected on his exit</a> and stated that Koeman <em>“didn’t have much personality.”</em></p>
<h2>Samuel Eto’o</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713057266/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/etoo_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Samuel Eto’o spent two seasons in Barcelona. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Samuel Eto’o</strong>‘s stint with Barcelona was one to remember, but things haven’t ended well. The Cameroonian star had an impactful first season in 2008/09when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/pep-guardiola-how-many-champions-league-titles-has-he-won-as-a-coach-manchester-city-barcelona-20210506-0021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pep Guardiola</strong></a>‘s boys won the treble in great fashion.</p>
<p>He had even scored the opening goal in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/champions-league-t24" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Champions League</strong></a> final, but Guardiola wouldn’t count on him for next season. Eto’o has even stated he loved Pep as a coach, but not as a person, and had a fantastic season with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/inter-t127" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Inter Milan</strong></a> in 2009/10.</p>
<h2>Rivaldo</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713103552/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/rivaldo_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Rivaldo in action with Barcelona. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>The Brazilian megastar left Barcelonaafter five years in 2002 when <strong>Louis van Gaal</strong> returned to Camp Nou. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/barcelona-top-goalscorers-all-time-20201115-0003.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Rivaldo</strong></a> had previously played under the Dutchman from 1997 to 2000, but <strong>their relationship was never great</strong>.</p>
<p>The Ballon d’Or winner had even said that he left because of van Gaal:<em>“I don’t like him and I’m sure he doesn’t like me either.”</em>Rivaldo was still in his prime after winning the 2002 World Cup with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/brazil-t146535" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Brazil</strong></a> and joined <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/ac-milan-t27122" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>AC Milan</strong></a>.</p>
<h2>Luis Figo</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713131694/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/figo_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Luis Figo made a switch to Real Madrid. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>When we talk about players who left Barcelona on bad terms, <strong>Luis Figo</strong> will probably be atop the list. The Portuguese star was an idol but <strong>the love was over when he joined lifelong rivals <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/real-madrid-t23" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Real Madrid</a></strong> right away.</p>
<p>Amid back-and-forth with the Cules’board, Figo signed for the Merengues in 2000 and was part of the <strong>Galacticos</strong> era. From then on, there was no turning back and the Blaugranashave never forgiven him.</p>
<h2>Ronaldinho</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713165849/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/ronaldinho_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Ronaldinho played for five years in Barcelona. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>One of the most beloved players in world soccer, the Brazilian sensation was a complete standout during his time with Barcelona. <strong>Ronaldinho</strong> arrived at Camp Nou in 2003 and <strong>helped the club tasting continental glory three years later</strong>.</p>
<p>However, things have taken a differentdirection by <strong>2008</strong>, when his relationship with the board was broken and his future at Barca seemed over. Ronaldinho then joined AC Milan, but a few years later <strong>he confessed that Pep Guardiola asked him to stay</strong>.</p>
<h2>Hristo Stoichkov</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713203856/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/stoichkov_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Hristo Stoichkov during his time with Barcelona. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Another player who left the club on bad terms with Louis van Gaal, <strong>Hristo Stoichkov</strong> played for Barcelona from 1990 to 1998 – although he spent a year on loan at <strong>Parma</strong> in 1995/96, during <strong>Johan Cruyff</strong>‘s era at Barca’s helm.</p>
<p>The Bulgarian star <strong>decided to end his contract with the Cules in 1998</strong>, blaming Louis van Gaal for not playing for more than a year. He didn’t leave on good terms with <strong>Josep Luis Nuñez</strong>, Barca’s president at that time, either.</p>
<h2>Ronaldo</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713256670/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/ronaldo_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Ronaldo only played one season for Barcelona. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Ronaldo</strong>‘s departure from Barcelona was quite shocking. He made agreat impressionin his first season at Camp Nou, scoring an amazing <strong>47 goals in 49 games</strong> in 1996/97, when he was only 20 years old.</p>
<p>They failed to get hold of him, though, as Inter Milan <strong>paid his buyout clause</strong>. Only five years later, Ronaldo signed for Real Madrid and joined the famous Galacticos in a huge blow for the Cules.</p>
<h2>Michael Laudrup</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713292320/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/laudrup_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Michael Laudrup was part of the Dream Team. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Michael Laudrup</strong> was part of the so-called ‘<strong>Dream Team</strong>‘ under Johan Cruyff’s guidance. His best days were at Barcelona, where he landed in 1989 as the Dutchman was keen on signing him. He went on to win four leagues and the club’s first <strong>European Cup</strong>, but things didn’t end well.</p>
<p>While his relationship with Cruyff and the boardwasn’t good anymore, <strong>Romario</strong>‘s arrival in 1993 didn’t help either, as Barca neededto offload one of their foreign players.In 1994, Laudrup joined Real Madrid in <strong>another shocking move</strong> for the Catalans.</p>
<h2>Romario</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713326286/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/romario_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Romario also left Barca on bad terms. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Romario had a great but <strong>short stint</strong> at Camp Nou. He signed for Barcelona in 1993, scoring an impressive 32 goals in 47 games in his first season, but didn’t last much longer as he and Johan Cruyff <strong>didn’t getalong anymore</strong>.</p>
<p>In January 1995, after winning the 1994 World Cup with Brazil, Romario returned home to join <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/flamengo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Flamengo</strong></a>. Cruyff mentioned that he couldn’t care less if he was unhappy and wanted to leave.</p>
<h2>Zlatan Ibrahimovic</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713353499/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/zlatan_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Zlatan Ibrahimovic left Barcelona after one season. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/zlatan-ibrahimovic" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Zlatan</strong></a> signed for Barcelona in 2009 due to Pep Guardiola’s eagerness to land him while Samuel Eto’o was packing his bags. By the end of the season, however, <strong>Ibrahimovic</strong> was no longer a priority for Pep.</p>
<p>The Swedish star was replaced in the first leg of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/uefa-champions-league-all-time-winners-list-by-year-20210526-0017.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions League</a> semifinals against Inter when Barca were trailing, and that series seemed to end hisgood relationship with the Spanish manager. <strong>Zlatan never returned to the starting XI after Barcelona’s elimination</strong> and joined Milan in 2010.</p>
<h2>Bernd Schuster</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713400423/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/schuster_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Bernd Schuster has also left Barca to join Real Madrid. (fcbarcelona.es)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Bernd Schuster</strong> spent eight years in Barcelona before signing for Real Madrid in 1988. That was just <strong>one of the many controversial episodes</strong> in his career. Schuster had been in the eye of the storm for <strong>abandoning the 1986 European Cup final on a taxi</strong> after being replaced.</p>
<p>Despite being one of the Cules best players at the time, he left the club on such bad terms that he didn’t mind joining the rivals. In an interview with <em>El Pais</em>, however, <strong>he stated that he wasn’t looking for revenge</strong>, that he was even grateful for his eight seasons with Barca.</p>
<h2>Diego Maradona</h2>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image">   <img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://bolavip.com/__export/1628713462025/sites/bolavip/img/2021/08/11/diego_maradona_barcelona.jpg_22993414.jpg" width="740" height="413"><figcaption>    Diego Maradona in action with Barcelona. (fcbarcelona.es)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Barcelona were the first European club to sign the Argentine legend after the 1982 World Cup. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-to-psg-diego-maradona-warned-that-barcelona-forget-their-idols-too-quickly-20210810-0018.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Diego Maradona</strong></a> proved his talent with the Blaugrana and won three titles, but his two seasons were <strong>hit by injuries and illness</strong>.</p>
<p>In1982/83 Diego was ruled out for about four months with hepatitis. The following season didn’t begin well for him either, as he was sidelined for another three months after <strong>Andoni Goikoetxea</strong>‘s ugly challenge. His tenure at Barcelona ended with the infamous ‘<strong>Battle of Bernabeu</strong>‘, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/youtube-barcelona-and-athletic-club-brawl-in-1984-copa-del-rey-video-diego-maradona-fight-against-bilbao-20210416-0019.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the brawl</a> in the<strong>1983 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/copa-del-rey-t210" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Copa del Rey</a> final</strong>between the Cules and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/athletic-club-t365" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Athletic Bilbao</strong></a>.</p>
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