Barkley Miguel Panzo: From Loftus Road to Lithuania via Wikipedia Blunder

A Wikipedia error led to one of the most amusing transfer stories in European football. How did Barkley Miguel Panzo end up in Lithuania based on false statistics?

The Wikipedia Blunder That Fooled FK Panevezys

Wikipedia’s open-edit nature led to a humorous football moment in February 2018. Lithuanian second-tier club FK Panevezys signed Barkley Miguel Panzo, believing he had scored 45 goals in 36 appearances for QPR. Fans were convinced they had secured a star striker capable of pushing the club to promotion.

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A Story Similar to Ali Dia

The story recalls Ali Dia, who in 1996 tricked Southampton into thinking he was George Weah’s cousin. Dia earned a one-month contract but was released after just 14 days. Both cases show how misinformation can lead to bizarre football transfers.

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The Truth About Panzo

It was later revealed that Panzo had only played for QPR’s academy side and never progressed to the professional level. He had also played in France’s lower divisions. Wikipedia falsely claimed he had earned three caps for Angola.

Reactions and Aftermath

Panevezys admitted the mistake but allowed Panzo a chance to prove himself. After 18 uneventful appearances, he was released. Panzo denied editing the Wikipedia page, insisting that his transfer was based on trial performances and friendlies.

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The Ongoing Mystery

Panzo’s Wikipedia page still bizarrely claims he scored 202 goals for the club. The origin of these exaggerated claims remains unknown. The February 2018 incident stands as one of football’s most entertaining moments.