Several England internationals have made surprising moves to European clubs this summer. Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona after a strained relationship with Manchester United’s manager. Jamie Vardy ended his Leicester City career to join Cremonese in Serie A. Ben Chilwell, seeking to revive his career, moved to Strasbourg from Chelsea. These players aim to make an impact in their new environments and secure places in England’s World Cup squad.
The summer transfer window has once again defied expectations, witnessing Premier League clubs shattering financial records while simultaneously seeing some of their biggest stars embark on adventures abroad. While the spotlight often shines on high-profile moves like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Trent Alexander-Arnold choosing foreign leagues, a wave of other England internationals have also sought new challenges on the continent.
As England manager Thomas Tuchel begins to strategize for next summer's World Cup finals in the United States, numerous fringe players are eager to secure their places in the squad. The recently concluded summer transfer window saw several Premier League stars making surprising switches to European clubs, each hoping to reignite their careers and catch Tuchel's eye.
Marcus Rashford's Barcelona Dream Realized
The saga surrounding Marcus Rashford's future reached its climax this summer with a high-profile move to Barcelona. Following a loan spell at Aston Villa at the end of the 2024/25 season, Rashford's return to Manchester United was always expected to be brief. His relationship with United boss Ruben Amorim had deteriorated significantly since the Portuguese coach's arrival in November 2024.
Reports suggested that Amorim had no intention of integrating Rashford back into his plans, and the player himself was unwilling to mend any bridges. Despite showing glimpses of his talent during his loan spell at Villa Park, Rashford made it clear that his ambition was to secure a move to Barcelona. In July, his dream became a reality as he joined the Spanish giants.
Rashford's determination to move to Catalonia had been evident for months, and now he aims to impress Tuchel and secure a spot in England's World Cup squad. The move represents a fresh start for Rashford, who will be keen to prove his worth on the European stage.
📞 “Yeah… It’s official.”
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 23, 2025
Rashford follows in Lineker’s footsteps. pic.twitter.com/ZvbnDAtbax
Jamie Vardy's Italian Adventure with Cremonese
Leicester City's relegation from the Premier League last season and ongoing financial difficulties left fans desperate for Jamie Vardy to stay for another year. However, in an emotional announcement in April, Vardy confirmed he would be ending his King Power fairytale at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, declining a contract extension.
Vardy is rightfully regarded as Leicester's most successful player, having led the Foxes to their historic Premier League title in 2016 and FA Cup victory four years ago. With 200 goals for Leicester since his arrival in 2012, Vardy has chosen a new challenge by joining Serie A returners Cremonese.
Cremonese have enjoyed a sensational start to their Serie A campaign, winning their opening two matches. Vardy has signed a one-year deal with an option for a further season if Cremonese avoid relegation. The move provides Vardy with a chance to experience a new league and culture while continuing to play competitive football.
🚨🇮🇹 Jamie Vardy to Cremonese, here we go! Deal in place with Italial club until June 2026 plus option for +1 season if staying in Serie A.
Agreement done right now and Vardy scheduled to travel tonight to Milano in order to start new chapter.#LCFC legend will play in Italy. pic.twitter.com/osAwzDod5H— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2025
Ben Chilwell Seeks Revival at Strasbourg
Ben Chilwell, despite being part of Crystal Palace's FA Cup-winning squad in May, has seen his career stagnate in recent years. After falling out of favor at Chelsea and spending the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace, the 28-year-old is eager to revive his career.
Chilwell was excluded from Enzo Maresca's Club World Cup squad and forced to train away from the first team, leading to his departure on Deadline Day. Despite interest from Premier League and Championship clubs, Chilwell opted to join Chelsea's partner club Strasbourg, where he is expected to see out the remaining two years of his contract.
Chilwell's move is part of a controversial trend, as he becomes the sixth Chelsea player to join Strasbourg this summer. He hopes to regain his form and prove his worth in a new environment.
From English soil to Strasbourg 🏴
Hello, Ben Chilwell! pic.twitter.com/5Z32Jo8Bw0— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) September 1, 2025