When a player departs Europe for Major League Soccer or the Saudi Pro League, they may have reasonable justification for their decision, but the discourse surrounding the move always links back to money.
Stars past their peak will often see out their career in America or China, with the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Patrick Vieira and more following the American dream for one last paycheck. Fair enough.
However, when a player entering his prime decides to make the big-money switch, there is often disappointment.
Whilst these moves can be vital for the non-European leagues to boost their profile, seeing players capable of playing Champions League football depart early for a pay rise has fans regularly questioning their passion for the sport.
Players may have personal reasons for making such moves, and some later come to regret them. We've listed 12 stars who departed Europe when they still had a lot to offer at the higher levels.
Once a prodigal big-money signing at Chelsea with the world at his feet, some inconsistent spells in North London killed his confidence, and in 2016 Oscar departed Europe for good, moving to Shanghai SIPG for around £52million.
Just 25 at the time of his move, Oscar justified his decision and his price tag somewhat, earning a place in the team of the season and winning the league in his second year.
“Every football player, or every person who works, wants to earn money to help their families,” he told Copa 90 in 2017.
“I came from a social background in Brazil that is very poor.”
“All the foreign players who come here are at a really high level. China has incredible financial power and sometimes makes offers that players can't refuse.”
Now 30, Oscar hasn't been in the best of form but has been
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