15 British Players Who Returned To Their Former Clubs

Born and bred in Wrexham, Mark Hughes was spotted by a talent scout while playing in North Wales and signed with Manchester United after leaving school in the summer of 1980. Hughes spent the next few years biding his time and waiting for his break but would eventually become a top striker for the Red Devils, scoring 37 times in 89 appearances. He would also win the FA Cup during this spell with the club.

In a move that surprised many, Hughes was sold to Barcelona in the Summer of 1986. Terry Venables was manager and Gary Lineker was also on his way to the Nou Camp so there was a distinctly British feel in Spanish football during this period.

Unlike Lineker, Hughes struggled to adapt and would be loaned out to German giants, Bayern Munich, for the 1987-88 season. He fared better here and by that summer, Manchester United wanted him back.

Alex Ferguson signed Hughes for a club record fee and his faith was rewarded. Hughes scored 83 times in 256 appearances for the club winning multiple trophies and personal accolades during this second spell at Old Trafford.