Arriving last summer with such a high expectation as the player that will lead Juventus back to its glory days, things just went wrong for Brazilian midfielder Diego Ribas as he fail to impress or lead the Bianconeri even for a Champions League spot. The former Werder Bremen unable to impose himself under two different coach, Ciro Ferarra and also Alberto Zacherroni although both tacticians have tried to integrate the player on their formations.
It seems that unimpressive fist season experience puts the doubt on Diego’s head as he reveals to the press that he isn’t sure yet whether he would stay or considers another offer from other clubs. The player may feel that things might not get any easier next season under the new coach Gigi Del Neri who has the thing for playing the classic 4-4-2 with wide attacking players or wingers, this should jeopardize his positions as the attacking midfielder might be forced to play deeper in the mid or play wider.
I don’t know if I am staying at Juventus, I can’t say anything today,” Diego told reporters.
Certainly everything would be decided as soon as Del Neri sees how would Diego fit on his system, as if the coach thinks that the ex-Porto player won’t be needed on his scheme than it would be time for the playmaker to look for a new club. It would be a shame for such an exciting talent to leave the Serie A so soon as I do think, he actually has the quality to perform well in Italy, maybe not in Juve, but his talent could flourish for other team.
Personally, I have to say it would be very difficult for the Brazilian to play under Del Neri’s formation as he’s not actually a Cassano type of player, who can still fit in on the coach’s classic 4-4-2, Diego is more of a playmaker that likes to play a bit deeper than a second striker. Not to mention, he doesn’t have the physical abilities and characteristic to play as a second striker, he might get a chance in the center of the midfield but once again it solely depends on how the former Sampdoria coach would like his midfield formed.
However, Diego doesn’t need to worry much as should Juve decided to sell him, there will be plenty of clubs that loved to acquire his services. Rumors stated that the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Wolfsburg are among those that admire the Brazilian’s talent, surely if the Bianconeri decide to sell those clubs would be running after for the player’s signature.
photo credit: Francesco Gernone
