10 Weirdest New Signing Reveals In Football History

10. Santi Cazorla Summoned By Magic - Villareal

Santi Cazorla is a two time European champion, and had it not been for injuries, he would surely have been a World Champion too. He formed a part of one of the greatest ever national teams and shone brightly wherever he plied his trade. A star at Villarreal, Malaga and Arsenal, he embodied skill, technique and professionalism.

He returned to Villarreal in 2018 after successful spells at Malaga and Arsenal. Santi didn't need anything fancy. A bona fide legend returning to his former club is surely a happy enough occasion? Especially considering that the player came back from a career ending injury. Well, club higher ups had other ideas.

In something that resembled a scaled-up children's party, a local magician was commissioned, a big tube was filled with smoke and poor Santi was asked to emerge from it. Fans were somewhat confused. They applauded, as it was the right thing to do for Cazorla, yet the expressions on their faces would lead one to believe that they also felt sorry for their hero, having to endure such an ill-advised stunt.

Fortunately, after the awkward unveiling, the joy of Santi being back consumed the terraces of El Madrigal and fans celebrated the grand occasion accordingly. Cazorla would go on to enjoy a fruitful spell with The Yellow Submarines, making 70 appearances and scoring 15 goals.