25 Aug 2026
What is the “ex-player curse” in football? Understand the meaning
The “ex-player curse” is an expression used when a player scores against a former club. It describes a frequent coincidence in football, not an official rule or a guarantee of a goal.
Definition of the “ex-player curse”
In football, the “ex-player curse” describes a situation in which a player scores against a team he previously represented. The expression is commonly used before and after matches between the player and his former club, especially when the transfer took place recently.
Is the ex-player curse part of the Laws of the Game?
No. It is not part of the laws established by the IFAB, the CBF or any competition. It is a superstition and a catchphrase used by fans, journalists and commentators to refer to goals scored by former players.
Why did the expression become popular?
The subject attracts attention because the player knows his former team, his old team-mates and, in some cases, the manager. There is also an emotional element: the player may want to prove his worth after leaving. Even so, these factors do not prove that he is more likely to score.
Examples of how it is used
If a striker leaves Flamengo, joins Grêmio and scores against Flamengo, fans may say that the “ex-player curse” has struck. The term is also used when a player scores against a team that loaned him out or sold him, even if he spent only a short time at the club.
The ex-player curse and match analysis
When analysing a match, the expression should be treated as context, not as sufficient data to predict a goal. It is more useful to consider the line-up, playing time, the striker’s role, shot volume and both teams’ performances. A player’s record against his former club can be mentioned, but it does not replace these factors.
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