Julio Baptista appears to be very good at football.
24 comments September 6th, 2006
Which, when Real Madrid have paid €24m for him, perhaps isn’t that surprising. But I continue to be amazed about just how excited I am about his arrival at Arsenal. And if anybody find that hard to understand, take one look at this goal.
What a remarkable piece of skill, from a remarkably skillfull player. And it’s not even a one off. Whilst video clips can be misleading, it’s clear that Baptista’s combination of power and precision could make him the perfect foil for Henry. Roll on Saturday so we can find out.
Last night Baptista played alongside Gilberto as Brazil rolled Wales over 2-0. Julio again found himself deployed on the right, which didn’t suit his game at all. Every time he came into the centre, he looked dangerous – on the wing, helpless. A nice moment came for Gilberto midway through the second half as he took over the captain’s armband – a real honour.
With Denilson, Baptista, and Gilberto I look forward to the samba flavour of our side this season.
According to the end of this Independent article, Arsene has urged William Gallas to stay out of Chelsea’s slanging match. If this is the case, I couldn’t agree more. If Chelsea’s claims are found to lack proof then it will be them who has brought the game into disrepute.
I can’t remember who said this, but it’s very true: consider the fact that Gallas is being castigated by Chelsea for criticising Mourinho – Ashley Cole is about to release a whole book full of bile directed at Arsenal. I’m sure our club will respond in a far more dignified manner.
I’ll finish with some quotes on the matter that say more than I ever could:
Raymond Domenech (France manager), on Jose Mourinho:
“He is the best coach in the world, he said so himself. William has the ability to overcome this kind of thing. We spoke about it. Actually we had a good laugh. I just think it’s a shame that they would consider or can even imagine that William would betray his team-mates in a match. William has proved over the years he is a loyal team-mate. It is scandalous.”
Gordon Taylor (Chief Exectutive of the PFA), on Chelsea’s decision to “wash their dirty laundry in public”:
“I find it bizarre. I am at a loss to understand what they hope to achieve by it. I find it totally unnecessary for a player who has always performed with distinction and been part of two championship teams.”
William Gallas (Arsenal defender):
“I spent five years with Chelsea. I always gave the best of myself and I always proved that I had a great respect for the colours I wore. All this is really mean from Chelsea. But it doesn’t surprise me as it comes from the club’s new officials. Even if these people have a lot of money, they lack style.”
Maybe this guy had a point…
