Alexis Sánchez - Barcelona - ST (25 Viewers)
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a great article by sportsillustrated bout Sanchez..mention of how he could into our team towards the end of the article:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/soccer/06/10/digby.sanchez/index.html
In his homeland he is known as "El Niño Maravilla" and right now, despite being only 22, Udinese's "Boy Wonder" Alexis Sánchez seemingly has the freedom to choose between some of Europe's biggest clubs as next destination. With teams such as Barcelona, Inter Milan and Manchester City reportedly interested, a move away seems almost a foregone conclusion. Despite the constant denials from the Italian club, it is highly unlikely he will be reporting to its summer training camp as it prepares for its hard-earned Champions League playoff round.It would seem that Sanchez's own desire to improve is the driving force behind the speculation. "Everything is about Udinese, what they want and the offers that arrive," said Sanchez to reporters. "I'm the last person to ask because I'm happy here in Udine. But I have a fire burning inside me, I'm desperate to prove I'm a top player."
Both he and his representatives recognize his stock may never be more highly sought than it currently is. He is the man of the moment thanks to a stellar season at the heart of one of this year's most surprising and entertaining sides. Udinese's tradition of selling its best players at the biggest premium possible looks set to continue as he follows the lead of men like Oliver Bierhoff, David Pizarro and Marcio Amoroso.
However it hasn't always been this way for Sanchez. It is easy to forget, given the hyperbole that engulfs him, that his career has not been the unmitigated success it currently appears. Many first became aware of him during the 2007 U-20 World Cup where he was outstanding. Even then Udinese's scouting network had stolen a march however, signing him in July 2006 from Cobreloa for a mere €2 million fee ($2.9M). Particular credit -- as ever with the Fruili club -- lies with the owner's son Gino Pozzo, who takes on much of the groundwork done in recruiting talented young players from across the globe.
Sanchez would spend a further two seasons on loan in South America after being signed by the Zebrette. This allowed him to develop more naturally and prevent his natural flair becoming stymied by moving to Italy at too young an age. He would first be sent to Chile's biggest club Colo-Colo and helped it to second place in the 2006 Copa Sudamericana. Sánchez would then be moved along to Argentine side River Plate, winning the Clausura Championship before finally being called to Udinese in the summer of 2008.
His first two seasons in Serie A would pass relatively quietly, his 40 appearances yielding eight goals and five assists. He did play a vital role in the sides Coppa Italia quarterfinal over Milan in January last year, constantly causing problems for the Rossoneri defense and setting up the winning goal for Gökhan Inler.
Then came his impressive performances at last summer's World Cup where he helped Chile to the round of 16, the team having captured the imagination of many thanks to Marcelo Bielsa's tactics and their seemingly attacking abandonment on the field. Despite losing to Brazil 3-0, Sánchez constantly probed and tested the Seleção defense.
But even this term -- by far his most productive and eye-catching to date -- did not get off to the best of starts.
As Udinese's third game of the season -- a four-goal home loss to Juventus -- petered out to (it was the third of four straight losses), Sanchez was taken off as Francesco Guidolin searched for a solution. It would be another month before the diminutive number seven would be restored to the starting lineup, with the coach moving him into an unfamiliar role slightly behind striker Antonio Di Natale, as Guidolin explained to Turin daily La Stampa.
"We took a gamble on Sánchez, he had always played wide, but I put forward the idea of playing him behind the striker. From a central position he can be even more decisive. Playing there he is more unpredictable, harder to keep tabs on."
Once there, it took Sanchez a while to become accustomed to his new position and, as Serie A took its customary Winter Break at the end of December, he had scored just two goals. Yet once the league started up again, it all fell into place as he netted 10 goals in the next 12 games, a streak which would see him consistently stand out in games.
A breathtaking display in the 4-4 draw with Milan, a 3-1 win over Inter, a goal and an assist against Sampdoria and the winner in a 2-1 triumph away to Juventus were only the start as the player relished the freedom of his new role.
His outstanding four-goal haul against Palermo in February showcased his talents to the fullest. A magnificent second goal, finishing off a blistering counterattack, was the highlight of a first-half hat trick in the 7-0 demolition of Palermo in February. The game made him only the 12th player to score four times in a Serie A fixture in the last 30 years -- and this despite the fact he was substituted just eight minutes into the second half.
Those results were all part of a 13-game unbeaten run that lasted three months and made all the difference in Udinese's quest to ultimately secure a Champions League berth. Napoli coach Edy Reja summed up the feelings of most Serie A defenses when he said "How do we stop Alexis Sanchez and Antonio Di Natale? We could try shooting them" after being asked by SkyItalia how he planned to defend against them.
Indeed it is not difficult to argue that, in a team where Di Natale scored just one goal fewer than in 2009-10, it has been largely down to the increased influence of Sánchez -- and a much improved defense -- that the side has won nine more games and gained 22 points compared to the previous season.
While numerous clubs are interested in Sanchez, it's clear it's is the style of play (rather than formation) employed by Guidolin this season that has brought the best from him -- he would be best advised to find a similar setup in order to continue what has been remarkable progress.
Udinese often plays at a frenetic pace, its ultra-quick game involving lots of direct (but not long) quick balls to its forward players while maintaining both its tactical shape and playing controlled football unless on the break. As with most wingers when moved infield, Sánchez tends to drift across the front line, making him extremely difficult for opponents to mark.
If that makes him sound like a typical Barcelona player, then it seems the Catalan club have had the same idea. The two clubs are believed to be talking over a possible deal, although the capture of Giuseppe Rossi from Villarreal may still be a priority and it remains to be seen if Barcelona would want to bring in both players.
Should he manage to successfully make the transition, his talents are certainly in-keeping with the traditions of the Blaugrana. Their constant rotating between spaces and positions suits Sanchez's style perfectly. His defensive work would need much improvement for him to adapt to the often relentless pressing demanded by Pep Guardiola.
Were Barca to pull out of the race however, the philosophy of new Juventus coach Antonio Conte is also a good match. Serie A's more famous Bianconeri are desperate for a top player, a great acquisition that can ignite excitement among the fans and lead them to fill the new stadium, reinforcing the already solid group in place.
The right signing could change them from being also-rans into the fearsome side of old and make them serious contenders once more. A lack of European competition may enable him to further hone his skills away from the biggest stage for another year. Former Udinese striker Abel Balbo has no doubts he is ready, telling Gazzetta dello Sport;
"Whoever takes Alexis Sanchez will have the deal of the transfer window ... the Chilean has grown so much over the last year in Udine and I feel he's ready to make a big splash in world football."
With so much interest and so many plaudits being bestowed upon him it is easy to forget both his age and relative inexperience. He has yet to play 100 league games since leaving South America and has scored less goals in his career than Cristiano Ronaldo has to his name this season alone. He has also logged just nine Europa League appearances (and no goals) since arriving in Italy.
Yet one of these traditional giants, with their strong squads and deep pockets, will welcome him in the coming weeks. What remains to be seen is, once there, whether he can continue to improve and flourish among the best or fade to obscurity under the weight of one of Europe's heaviest shirts. For Alexis Sánchez it is time to show and prove.
Adam Digby is a Turin-based freelance writer covering Italian soccer.
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/soccer/06/10/digby.sanchez/index.html#ixzz1PPruQymu
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/soccer/06/10/digby.sanchez/index.html
In his homeland he is known as "El Niño Maravilla" and right now, despite being only 22, Udinese's "Boy Wonder" Alexis Sánchez seemingly has the freedom to choose between some of Europe's biggest clubs as next destination. With teams such as Barcelona, Inter Milan and Manchester City reportedly interested, a move away seems almost a foregone conclusion. Despite the constant denials from the Italian club, it is highly unlikely he will be reporting to its summer training camp as it prepares for its hard-earned Champions League playoff round.It would seem that Sanchez's own desire to improve is the driving force behind the speculation. "Everything is about Udinese, what they want and the offers that arrive," said Sanchez to reporters. "I'm the last person to ask because I'm happy here in Udine. But I have a fire burning inside me, I'm desperate to prove I'm a top player."
Both he and his representatives recognize his stock may never be more highly sought than it currently is. He is the man of the moment thanks to a stellar season at the heart of one of this year's most surprising and entertaining sides. Udinese's tradition of selling its best players at the biggest premium possible looks set to continue as he follows the lead of men like Oliver Bierhoff, David Pizarro and Marcio Amoroso.
However it hasn't always been this way for Sanchez. It is easy to forget, given the hyperbole that engulfs him, that his career has not been the unmitigated success it currently appears. Many first became aware of him during the 2007 U-20 World Cup where he was outstanding. Even then Udinese's scouting network had stolen a march however, signing him in July 2006 from Cobreloa for a mere €2 million fee ($2.9M). Particular credit -- as ever with the Fruili club -- lies with the owner's son Gino Pozzo, who takes on much of the groundwork done in recruiting talented young players from across the globe.
Sanchez would spend a further two seasons on loan in South America after being signed by the Zebrette. This allowed him to develop more naturally and prevent his natural flair becoming stymied by moving to Italy at too young an age. He would first be sent to Chile's biggest club Colo-Colo and helped it to second place in the 2006 Copa Sudamericana. Sánchez would then be moved along to Argentine side River Plate, winning the Clausura Championship before finally being called to Udinese in the summer of 2008.
His first two seasons in Serie A would pass relatively quietly, his 40 appearances yielding eight goals and five assists. He did play a vital role in the sides Coppa Italia quarterfinal over Milan in January last year, constantly causing problems for the Rossoneri defense and setting up the winning goal for Gökhan Inler.
Then came his impressive performances at last summer's World Cup where he helped Chile to the round of 16, the team having captured the imagination of many thanks to Marcelo Bielsa's tactics and their seemingly attacking abandonment on the field. Despite losing to Brazil 3-0, Sánchez constantly probed and tested the Seleção defense.
But even this term -- by far his most productive and eye-catching to date -- did not get off to the best of starts.
As Udinese's third game of the season -- a four-goal home loss to Juventus -- petered out to (it was the third of four straight losses), Sanchez was taken off as Francesco Guidolin searched for a solution. It would be another month before the diminutive number seven would be restored to the starting lineup, with the coach moving him into an unfamiliar role slightly behind striker Antonio Di Natale, as Guidolin explained to Turin daily La Stampa.
"We took a gamble on Sánchez, he had always played wide, but I put forward the idea of playing him behind the striker. From a central position he can be even more decisive. Playing there he is more unpredictable, harder to keep tabs on."
Once there, it took Sanchez a while to become accustomed to his new position and, as Serie A took its customary Winter Break at the end of December, he had scored just two goals. Yet once the league started up again, it all fell into place as he netted 10 goals in the next 12 games, a streak which would see him consistently stand out in games.
A breathtaking display in the 4-4 draw with Milan, a 3-1 win over Inter, a goal and an assist against Sampdoria and the winner in a 2-1 triumph away to Juventus were only the start as the player relished the freedom of his new role.
His outstanding four-goal haul against Palermo in February showcased his talents to the fullest. A magnificent second goal, finishing off a blistering counterattack, was the highlight of a first-half hat trick in the 7-0 demolition of Palermo in February. The game made him only the 12th player to score four times in a Serie A fixture in the last 30 years -- and this despite the fact he was substituted just eight minutes into the second half.
Those results were all part of a 13-game unbeaten run that lasted three months and made all the difference in Udinese's quest to ultimately secure a Champions League berth. Napoli coach Edy Reja summed up the feelings of most Serie A defenses when he said "How do we stop Alexis Sanchez and Antonio Di Natale? We could try shooting them" after being asked by SkyItalia how he planned to defend against them.
Indeed it is not difficult to argue that, in a team where Di Natale scored just one goal fewer than in 2009-10, it has been largely down to the increased influence of Sánchez -- and a much improved defense -- that the side has won nine more games and gained 22 points compared to the previous season.
While numerous clubs are interested in Sanchez, it's clear it's is the style of play (rather than formation) employed by Guidolin this season that has brought the best from him -- he would be best advised to find a similar setup in order to continue what has been remarkable progress.
Udinese often plays at a frenetic pace, its ultra-quick game involving lots of direct (but not long) quick balls to its forward players while maintaining both its tactical shape and playing controlled football unless on the break. As with most wingers when moved infield, Sánchez tends to drift across the front line, making him extremely difficult for opponents to mark.
If that makes him sound like a typical Barcelona player, then it seems the Catalan club have had the same idea. The two clubs are believed to be talking over a possible deal, although the capture of Giuseppe Rossi from Villarreal may still be a priority and it remains to be seen if Barcelona would want to bring in both players.
Should he manage to successfully make the transition, his talents are certainly in-keeping with the traditions of the Blaugrana. Their constant rotating between spaces and positions suits Sanchez's style perfectly. His defensive work would need much improvement for him to adapt to the often relentless pressing demanded by Pep Guardiola.
Were Barca to pull out of the race however, the philosophy of new Juventus coach Antonio Conte is also a good match. Serie A's more famous Bianconeri are desperate for a top player, a great acquisition that can ignite excitement among the fans and lead them to fill the new stadium, reinforcing the already solid group in place.
The right signing could change them from being also-rans into the fearsome side of old and make them serious contenders once more. A lack of European competition may enable him to further hone his skills away from the biggest stage for another year. Former Udinese striker Abel Balbo has no doubts he is ready, telling Gazzetta dello Sport;
"Whoever takes Alexis Sanchez will have the deal of the transfer window ... the Chilean has grown so much over the last year in Udine and I feel he's ready to make a big splash in world football."
With so much interest and so many plaudits being bestowed upon him it is easy to forget both his age and relative inexperience. He has yet to play 100 league games since leaving South America and has scored less goals in his career than Cristiano Ronaldo has to his name this season alone. He has also logged just nine Europa League appearances (and no goals) since arriving in Italy.
Yet one of these traditional giants, with their strong squads and deep pockets, will welcome him in the coming weeks. What remains to be seen is, once there, whether he can continue to improve and flourish among the best or fade to obscurity under the weight of one of Europe's heaviest shirts. For Alexis Sánchez it is time to show and prove.
Adam Digby is a Turin-based freelance writer covering Italian soccer.
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/soccer/06/10/digby.sanchez/index.html#ixzz1PPruQymu
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new juve offer - 35 million + giandanato e de ceglie?
http://www.tuttosport.com/calcio/se...ve,+follia+per+Sanchez:+sul+piatto+35+milioni
http://www.tuttosport.com/calcio/se...ve,+follia+per+Sanchez:+sul+piatto+35+milioni
When both Barcelona and United want the player (Barca representative confirmed the talks), when both Inter and Juve made offers for the player and when on top of it you have City making a +30m eur offer, of course Udinese will try to get as much as possible.
5 of the richest teams in the world want him and are prepared to pay big for him. The bidding war will do the rest and Udinese will end up with lots of money.
5 of the richest teams in the world want him and are prepared to pay big for him. The bidding war will do the rest and Udinese will end up with lots of money.
If we have 35m eur prepared for a "champion" and we can't get some others, I'd rather we overpay for Sanchez than buy Bastos+another player with the money or keep the money for the next mercato and fail again to buy a top player.
We're playing on two fronts right now. Aguero and Sanchez. We intend to buy only one, I believe. So if the negotiations for one of them fail, we'll have advanced negotiations for the other one too.
We're playing on two fronts right now. Aguero and Sanchez. We intend to buy only one, I believe. So if the negotiations for one of them fail, we'll have advanced negotiations for the other one too.
Yeah, I know... and that is a good point. I wouldn't cry much, I'd probably fap all day long if either of them comes. Who would you prefer?
35mln + De Ceglie and Giandonato or 40-45mln for Aguero?
On the paper I think Aguero's purchase would be better, but I highly doubt we'd be able to beat competitors.
35mln + De Ceglie and Giandonato or 40-45mln for Aguero?
On the paper I think Aguero's purchase would be better, but I highly doubt we'd be able to beat competitors.
I really don't know what to choose.
You'll rarely see both Barcelona and Manchester United (the two CL finalists) willing to go over 25m for a 22 year old. Then you have the previous CL winners Inter, you have Juventus and the usual suspects City. They all know that the kid is THAT good. They know that in 2-3 years they could have a 60-70m eur player in their hands.
But they are all betting on his half season with Udinese. They know that the boy is seriously good, they know he has it, they know he played some great matches in the past too, but they're gambling if Sanchez will show the same consistency from this half season. If he does, then even 35m eur will be a steal.
His talent and qualities were well known even before, but seems like everyone was waiting for him to consistently play great. Now that the expected season/half season came, they all want him.
Aguero was more consistent, of course. Only half a year older than Sanchez, but has much more behind him. With Kun you know what you get and you know that even if Sanchez shows consistency, he won't really be much, if any, superior to Kun.
My brain says Kun but a gut feeling picks Sanchez
You'll rarely see both Barcelona and Manchester United (the two CL finalists) willing to go over 25m for a 22 year old. Then you have the previous CL winners Inter, you have Juventus and the usual suspects City. They all know that the kid is THAT good. They know that in 2-3 years they could have a 60-70m eur player in their hands.
But they are all betting on his half season with Udinese. They know that the boy is seriously good, they know he has it, they know he played some great matches in the past too, but they're gambling if Sanchez will show the same consistency from this half season. If he does, then even 35m eur will be a steal.
His talent and qualities were well known even before, but seems like everyone was waiting for him to consistently play great. Now that the expected season/half season came, they all want him.
Aguero was more consistent, of course. Only half a year older than Sanchez, but has much more behind him. With Kun you know what you get and you know that even if Sanchez shows consistency, he won't really be much, if any, superior to Kun.
My brain says Kun but a gut feeling picks Sanchez
I'd love to know Sanchez intentions in all this. His next move is crucial not only for his career but also personal progression. He know's Italy now, know's the League etc, seemingly enjoys living here also.
Now let's say he moves to Barca where they will have to integrate him into their style of play which would take atleast a season of coming on and off the bench. I know Juventus are not in Europe but if we're bidding seriously for Sanchez I don't think any other team can guarantee him a starting spot like we can and that should be the main thing for Sanchez because he's young enough to sacrifice a year without Europe for personal progression in my opinion.
Now let's say he moves to Barca where they will have to integrate him into their style of play which would take atleast a season of coming on and off the bench. I know Juventus are not in Europe but if we're bidding seriously for Sanchez I don't think any other team can guarantee him a starting spot like we can and that should be the main thing for Sanchez because he's young enough to sacrifice a year without Europe for personal progression in my opinion.
I really don't know what to choose.
You'll rarely see both Barcelona and Manchester United (the two CL finalists) willing to go over 25m for a 22 year old. Then you have the previous CL winners Inter, you have Juventus and the usual suspects City. They all know that the kid is THAT good. They know that in 2-3 years they could have a 60-70m eur player in their hands.
But they are all betting on his half season with Udinese. They know that the boy is seriously good, they know he has it, they know he played some great matches in the past too, but they're gambling if Sanchez will show the same consistency from this half season. If he does, then even 35m eur will be a steal.
His talent and qualities were well known even before, but seems like everyone was waiting for him to consistently play great. Now that the expected season/half season came, they all want him.
Aguero was more consistent, of course. Only half a year older than Sanchez, but has much more behind him. With Kun you know what you get and you know that even if Sanchez shows consistency, he won't really be much, if any, superior to Kun.
My brain says Kun but a gut feeling picks Sanchez
You'll rarely see both Barcelona and Manchester United (the two CL finalists) willing to go over 25m for a 22 year old. Then you have the previous CL winners Inter, you have Juventus and the usual suspects City. They all know that the kid is THAT good. They know that in 2-3 years they could have a 60-70m eur player in their hands.
But they are all betting on his half season with Udinese. They know that the boy is seriously good, they know he has it, they know he played some great matches in the past too, but they're gambling if Sanchez will show the same consistency from this half season. If he does, then even 35m eur will be a steal.
His talent and qualities were well known even before, but seems like everyone was waiting for him to consistently play great. Now that the expected season/half season came, they all want him.
Aguero was more consistent, of course. Only half a year older than Sanchez, but has much more behind him. With Kun you know what you get and you know that even if Sanchez shows consistency, he won't really be much, if any, superior to Kun.
My brain says Kun but a gut feeling picks Sanchez
For the record, I have a feeling that Manchester would make another Ronaldo from him. I'm afraid of us 'creating' a star... It really scares me.
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