Few young stars have shone as brightly as Federico Macheda did in 2009. The 17-year-old’s match winner for Manchester United against Aston Villa was a truly memorable moment at Old Trafford.
A week later he struck a winner against Sunderland, and his two goals were crucial in helping Manchester United beat Rafa Benitez’s Liverpool to the title.
Macheda was viewed at the time as the next great striker to come through the ranks. Sadly it didn’t work out that way, and his name is more of a cautionary tale nowadays, a reminder never to get too carried away that when a young player makes his breakthrough, the hard work is only just beginning.
The Italian striker is still going, and at 31-years-old, he has more to give. Macheda has been on the move again this transfer window.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loan deals for January 2023
Federico Macheda signs with new club
Federico Macheda left Manchester United on a permanent basis only in 2014, with the same number of total loan spells as he did goals – five.
After his release he had stints at Cardiff City, a loan at Nottingham Forest, and returning to Italy with Serie B side Novara. Then a nomadic career saw him find a home in Greece with Panathaniakos.
Macheda spent four season at Panathaniakos, making more than 100 appearances, and scoring 40 goals. After winning the Greek Cup last summer, the striker decided to take on a new challenge, with Turkish Super Lig side Ankaragucu, where he signed a two-year deal.
Sadly his spell in Turkey has not been a success. He scored just one goal in 13 games, and has now left the club on loan.
Macheda has signed with Cypriot side APOEL Nicosia until the end of the season, where he will wear the number 91 shirt.
Macheda will be looking to get back among the goals after a frustrating season, with a fresh start at his new club.
His career has not hit the heights expected back in 2009, but that high was so incredible, he probably wouldn’t swap it for a more steady career.
He has done well to extend his journey into his 30s. At one stage during the mid-2010s, it looked like Macheda would become one of those failed wonderkids retiring by 26 or 27. He has proven to be too good for that, rescuing his career with a successful spell in Greece. Now he will hope his new move will provide a similar boost.