While there are countless tales of magical, dream debuts, there are also plenty of stories of disastrous starts.
Let’s explore the experiences of several players who were infamously sent off during their first appearances.
With Liverpool already qualified for the next round, Nallo’s debut turned sour when he was dismissed for a last-man challenge just four minutes into his debut, becoming the youngest player to be red-carded in the club’s history. ..Continue Reading
Lionel Messi
Despite a career full of iconic moments, Lionel Messi’s debut for Argentina in 2005 is unforgettable for the wrong reasons.
He was sent off just 47 seconds into the match against Hungary for an alleged swipe on Vilmos Vanczák.
The decision was harsh as replays showed exaggerated contact, leaving Messi to exit the pitch in tears. This incident marked just one of three red cards in his illustrious career.
Joao Felix
Portuguese forward Joao Felix joined Chelsea on loan in January 2023 and made his debut against Fulham.
Although he initially showcased impressive ability, his debut was cut short in the second half due to a dangerous high challenge, resulting in a red card.
Banned for three games, it was a nightmare start to his Chelsea career, which he later rejoined on a permanent deal in 2024.
Jonathan Woodgate
Jonathan Woodgate’s debut for Real Madrid in 2005 is often described as the ultimate nightmare.
Thirteen months after signing and battling injuries, Woodgate made his debut against Athletic Bilbao, scoring an own goal in the 25th minute.
Later, he received two yellow cards, leading to his dismissal. Woodgate only managed 13 more appearances before leaving Spain.
Chris Smalling
Ex-Manchester United defender Chris Smalling’s debut for Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League mirrored Woodgate’s nightmare debut.
He scored an own goal six minutes into the game and was later sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity in the second half.
Since then, he has started every game for his side, who currently sit just above the relegation zone.
Joe Cole
Joe Cole, a fan favorite at Chelsea, joined Liverpool on a free transfer after a long-term injury.
However, his debut against Arsenal saw him sent off just 45 minutes into the match for a challenge on Laurent Koscielny. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both debutants being dismissed.
Gervinho
Ivorian winger Gervinho’s debut for Arsenal in 2011 against Newcastle was marred by an altercation with Joey Barton.
After being dragged up from the ground, Gervinho reacted by slapping Barton, leading to a straight red card.
Serge Aurier
Known for his fiery temperament, Serge Aurier’s debut for Tottenham was marked by a red card against West Ham.
Initially making a crucial interception, Aurier later received a second yellow card, leading to his dismissal.
Luca Zidane
Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine Zidane, had the world watching as he made his debut for Rayo Vallecano in 2021.
However, he was sent off just 16 minutes into the match against Sevilla after pulling back an opponent.
Luis Suarez
Controversy followed Luis Suarez throughout his career, starting with his international debut for Uruguay in 2007 against Colombia, where he was sent off for dissent just five minutes from the end of the match.
Graeme Souness
As the player-manager of Rangers in 1986, Graeme Souness was sent off for a reckless challenge 34 minutes into his debut against Hibernian. His aggressive play style left his opponent with a bloody knee, leading to his dismissal.
These players experienced the misfortune of being sent off on their debuts, but they each went on to achieve great success in the world of football, proving that a rocky start doesn’t define a career.
