Arsenal haven't had a reliable keeper since Lehmann, Almunia and Fabianski are dross, while Szczesny is prone to the odd clanger.
Chesney Hawkes had a good season last time out though, so I can't see him accepting a keeper being brought in over him. I'd be surprised if Wenger could manage that, but I can't see Arsenal spending that much on Lloris, anyway.
well there's been amazing Brazilian players since.... forever! some don't make it like you say, but the majority have been well above average. most being very good-outstanding! if a country like Brazil was to slow down in terms of quality it's churning out, i think we'd notice it significantly. most players are just class to watch.
fair point..i agree...it will never come to a standstill..but it is quite possible that the overall quality might diminish. there is something about that Naymar that i do not like!
It's a huge country, with a population of around 200 million, virtually all of whom are football mad. There is not much likelihood of there being a shortage of very good - great players. The question is, however, how many will adapt to the European climate, and Premiership football in particular. Not all of them do - and 25-30 mil is a hell of a lot of money to pay for a player who may, or may not, be a success in our league.
but because their brazilian, they are going to come with those sorts of prices, based on reputation. we either take a well thought out "gamble", or leave them for the likes of Chelsea and city. rock and a hard place.
On the Brazilian player debate, someone mentioned 'overratedness' and they're not far out imo, I think Brazilian clubs have been pretty cute over the years, hailing the next Ronaldhino and the rest. Europe is littered with Brazilian players, even the Russian leagues, a lot of them average, but you can bet some hype got them on the aeroplane in the first place. A lot of quality does come out of there, but I think a more than a few hitch a ride on the Brazilian 'tag'.
The smut may exist for sure, but only those with an eye for it will notice. Careful smart this is a public forum.
Getting away from your over active imaginations, very true, Notso. For whichever reason, at the prices being asked for these so-called superstars of tomorrow, the risk is enormous. Some will pay off, others will fail dismally. At my age, I'm glad of any rides I can get - Brazilian, or not!,,,
However it is disappointing to be outbid / not considered in favour of the 'money no object' clubs. Because financial risk is not a risk when you have no need to balance the books. You can put the bad buys down to bad luck and only succeed when one comes off and all the pundits will sing your praise and mention how insightful you were in picking them up. Not to sound cynical or anything, but there does come a point where you start to think "what's the point, it's not competition any more". ... not forgetting that these two "teams" were unlikely to be placed above us without the massive cash injections they've had, which would have made our recent league positions look rather good.
"to ride a brazilian." ....hardly subltle is it! or does your average brazilian roadsweeper make a trusty steed!