http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature?id=261945&cc=5901 I would just add that the same issue seems to exist for various English players who've tried to head East to Serie A. I'm inclined to think the 'failure' has more to do with the defensive style of play than anything 'technical' or physical. The debate floor is open!
I'd have to agree with most of what was said, although the French seem to adjust well to Italy (I didn't agree that Zidane has only truly found his form in Spain, I thought he was pretty good at Juve too), and of course we know how well the Brazilians and Argentines are playing in Italy, but for some reason, the Spanish and the English really have an adjustment period, or they just plain don't play well in Italy.
I wonder, however, if the bigger point is that it's difficult for an international of any of the top three or four european leagues to go outside their country to play. When you think of Italians who are thriving outside of Italy, who comes to mind? Zola perhaps (I'm sure there are others). Spaniards? (Medieta really covered himself in glory at Lazio; Guardiola) English (Macca--I never remember how to spell his name). There are counter-arguments that can, and should, be made. But if you are good enough to play for a big team in your home country, and you want to be considered for the national team (which means keeping your face in front of the national team manager), maybe its just less hassle (and more money) to stay home. Tony
Sorry but I disagree Tony, I give you Pep but Mendieta lost all his football as a benchwarmer in Lazio
I was being sarcastic about Mendieta, Mario, sorry if that didn't come through. I should have put some kind of marker there. Tony
no prob, another one that is mentioned is De la Peña considered before he left BArcelona as the next Gento.
errr, Mario... I don't see the comparison with Gento, because he was a left winger and Little Buddha plays in a very different way...
I know what position Gento used to play, I meant (and I dont think I should explain this) he was a leader on the pitch as Ivan used to be.
It doesnt really matter if a player succeeds in Serie A.. serie A aint the benchmark for success anymore. Players dont need to go to italy to prove themselves.
Maldini regarding spaniards in Italy lack of success: "No sé por qué no triunfan los jugadores españoles en Italia, quizás por el cambio de mentalidad o la presión que existe aunque nunca han venido a Italia lo verdaderos 'cracks' de España. Estoy seguro que si Raúl viniera a un equipo importante de Italia, triunfaría" "I dont know why spanish players cant succeed in Italy, maybe the change of mind or the pressure, although we have never seen the real 'cracks' coming to play here, Im pretty sure if Raul would play in Calcio in a big team he would succeed" Two ideas: - Luis Suarez, ever heard of? it seems its not familiar to him. - If Raul goes to Italy, would he only succeed in a ''big team"???