Former Chelsea wonderkid who sparked transfer ban left unemployed after having contract ripped up in Iran
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EX-CHELSEA prodigy Gael Kakuta has hit a new career low... after having his contract ripped up in IRAN. The Blues landed a transfer ban and fine after signing the winger from Lens in 2007. TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: STAY UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST MOVES FROM THE JANUARY WINDOW.
![[Gael Kakuta of DR Congo playing soccer.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/gael-kakuta-dr-congo-totalenergies-919233555.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Kakuta, once dubbed the most gifted player of his generation, also had Premier League loan spells with Fulham and Bolton. He joined Iranian league runners-up Esteghlal last summer, penning a one-year deal. But they ripped up his contract on Monday after France-born Kakuta failed to live up to expectations.
![[Gael Kakuta in Chelsea soccer jersey.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/group-d-chelsea-v-apoel-4499267.jpg?strip=all&w=709)
The 33-year-old failed to score in 18 appearances as Esteghlal slumped to 11th in the 16-team Persian Gulf Pro League. The Tehran outfit announced the DR Congo international's departure in a terse statement. "After Monday night's meeting between club directors, Kakuta and his agent, the parties reached an agreement to end their collaboration," a club spokesman said.
"Esteghlal FC thank Kakuta for his efforts during his half season at the club.". Esteghlal were the THIRTEENTH club of the winger's nomadic career. SunSport exclusives. Already have these accounts? Don't worry, we've got loads more terrific deals below!. Check out the latest free bets to use on football, horse racing, and lots more.
He has played in Spain, Italy, France, the Netherlands and China as well as England and Iran. Kakuta played 16 senior Chelsea games, and scored a goal apiece for Fulham and Bolton. Born in France, he won 18 Under-21 caps before switching to DR Congo - appearing 28 times for their senior side.
