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Stoke City’s capture of Aaron Cresswell might just go down as one of the best signings of the summer, and the Potters new boy has an amazing story behind deciding to join the club.
After a disappointing showing in 2024/25, Stoke City needed revitalising. It’s safe to say Mark Robins has done just that for the new campaign.
The experienced manager has earned plaudits for the way he’s got his team operating this season, and after five games, the Potters are sitting in second place in the Championship table.
While Stoke City signings like Sorba Thomas may be grabbing the headlines for their attacking play, it’s worth remembering that Robins now has a Premier League pedigree talent in his defensive line in Aaron Cresswell.
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Why Aaron Cresswell joined Stoke City
Cresswell joined Stoke on a free transfer from West Ham in the summer, after more than ten years turning out for the Hammers. Along the way, Cresswell established himself as one of the most solid left-backs in the top flight.
So, how did Stoke manage to secure his signature? Speaking to the club’s official podcast, Cresswell explained the incredible turn of events that led to his decision.
He said: “I went to Portugal on a mini pre-season before the actual pre-season started. I didn’t know where I was going to be [this season]. I had just got off the phone with my agent and he mentioned about Stoke and a couple of other clubs.
“I’m stood there having a conversation, I look down as I’m stood in the queue at the airport for passport control, and there’s a big, massive Stoke City tattoo on the side of this guy’s leg.”
Turns out, that was enough to sway Cresswell’s decision. He added: “I said to my mate, ‘That’s a sign. That’s fate.’ Everything happens for a reason… that’s the reason I signed for Stoke.”
So there you have it… if you’re ever debating whether getting a tattoo of the club badge is a good idea, it could end up leading to a top signing for your team!
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Aaron Cresswell’s experience can push Stoke City forward
Pundits believe Stoke City can push for promotion this season after their brilliant start. Mark Robins is the best manager Stoke have had for years, and he’s got the squad in a good place now.
In Cresswell, Stoke have bagged a player with over 300 Premier League appearances. That level of experience cannot be overestimated, especially with Stoke having a few younger players in their team.
Cresswell is an intelligent, composed, and creative full-back who will make a real difference this season. If he can replicate his form the last time he was in the Championship back in 2013/14, where he got two goals and 14 assists for Ipswich Town, Stoke will be thriving this term.