For movie lovers, the iconic ‘007’ tag instantly reminds them of the popular British spy – James Bond.
However, the term has an entirely different meaning in footballing aspect. It’s a cheeky way of making fun at players who failed to record a goal contribution in their first seven games at a new club – 0 goals, 0 assists in 7 games.
While James Bond’s mission is to chase villains, these footballers chase their first goal contributions for their new clubs. Although many players have narrowly escaped the tag, a few others haven’t been that lucky.
In this article, SportPremi reveals five players who have completed football’s ‘007’ tag;
Thierry Henry (Arsenal)
A surprise inclusion on this list, former Arsenal forward Thierry Henry failed to score or assist in his first eight appearances for the club, but still ended the season with 26 goals in all competitions.
The Frenchman had reunited with former manager Arsene Wenger, but initially struggled to adapt to the demands of the league following his £11 million move from Juventus.
However, Henry shrugged off disappointment and went on to become arguably the greatest player in the history of Arsenal and the English Premier League.
He also went on to win four Premier League Golden Boots, two European Golden Shoes, and set numerous records, including becoming Arsenal’s all-time top scorer. A truly remarkable turnaround for the Frenchman.
Ian Rush (Liverpool)
Liverpool legendary figure Ian Rush failed to provide a goal contribution in his first seven matches on his return to the club.
The former England international had enjoyed a previously successful spell at Anfield before leaving for Juventus.
However, he returned to England after just a year, but failed to score or assist in his first seven games before ending the barren run with a goal in a 2-2 draw against Manchester United in his eighth game.
Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)
Wirtz made history as the Premier League’s most expensive signing during the 2025 summer window, a record later broken by his teammate Alexander Isak, who moved to Liverpool in a £125 million deal.
Despite his brilliance in Germany, the 22-year-old has failed to impress in any of his outings for the Reds so far with plenty underwhelming displays.
He is also without a goal or an assist in his first nine matches for the club, failing so far to justify his hefty price tag.
Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)
Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha might want to consider a side career in acting as he has now completed the ‘007’ tag twice, first with Wolves and again with Manchester United.
After an impressive 2024/25 campaign with Wolves, Cunha earned a dream move to Old Trafford in the summer transfer window, but has yet to contribute a goal or assist in his first seven appearances for the club this season.
Jadon Sancho (Manchester United)
England international Jadon Sancho was a hot prospect when he completed a £73 million move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in 2021.
However, he failed to live up to expectations and struggled for form at the Red Devils, eventually going on different loan spells to several clubs.
