Few individuals in football possess a more discerning eye for defensive talent than Marcos Cafu. The legendary Brazilian, a decorated veteran with an unparalleled career, has weighed in on the pivotal transfer decisions currently shaping AC Milan and AS Roma`s squads. With both clubs targeting dynamic full-backs, Cafu, a man who redefined the position, offers a candid assessment of their prospective acquisitions, delivering insights that are as sharp as his former runs down the flank.
Milan`s Left-Back Conundrum: The Estupinan Verdict
AC Milan`s hunt for a new left-back, particularly in the shadow of the departing Theo Hernandez, has led them to Ecuador`s Pervis Estupinan. Cafu`s verdict on the Brighton & Hove Albion defender is unequivocally positive.
“I`ve watched him multiple times during World Cup qualifiers, and he is incredibly strong. He`s perfectly suited for Milan.”
When pressed on what makes Estupinan stand out, Cafu highlights his core attributes: “His rapidity, his ability to push forward, and the sheer lack of fear in taking personal initiatives when the team demands it.” This is high praise from a player known for his own relentless offensive forays.
The inevitable question arises: can Estupinan escape the imposing shadow of Theo Hernandez? Cafu, with the wisdom of experience, dismisses this concern with pragmatic simplicity: “If a player performs well on the pitch, they don`t feel the legacy of those who came before them. And if Estupinan is the player I`ve seen with the national team, then there`s no doubt.” While Serie A demands greater tactical discipline than the Premier League, Cafu is confident that Estupinan`s physical prowess will allow him to adapt seamlessly. “Finding stronger players in the left-back role isn`t easy,” he concludes, subtly underlining the potential shrewdness of Milan`s move.
Marcos Cafu, a legend of the game, shares his thoughts on the latest transfer dealings.
Roma`s Right-Back Bet: The Rise of Wesley
On the other side of the Italian peninsula, AS Roma has placed its faith in Brazilian talent Wesley for the right-back position, a player Cafu has championed for some time. The veteran full-back`s endorsement of Roma`s choice is equally emphatic:
“Roma couldn`t have made a better choice. Wesley is strong, young, and has become a starter at Flamengo, earning his call-up to the national team. The future belongs to him.”
The transition from Brazilian domestic football to the demanding European stage can be a daunting one, but Cafu harbors no doubts about Wesley`s success. “He`s very strong in attack, possesses personality, and enjoys playing football with the team. Furthermore, he has excellent physique and isn`t easily stopped when he challenges you. Right now, in Brazil, he`s the best acquisition one can make.” This speaks volumes about Wesley`s raw potential.
Cafu`s advice to his compatriot is straightforward: “Work hard and stay calm. He`ll need to understand how things work in Rome, but you`ll see he`ll establish himself.” He also acknowledges the role of coaches, noting that Gasperini, known for his ability to develop wing-backs, will be a significant asset. “Gasperini is one of Italy`s best coaches; he understands the importance of wide players and maximizes their characteristics.”
The Eternal Quest for the Perfect Flank: Milan`s Right-Back Search
While Milan seems poised on the left, their search for a right-back continues. Names like Monaco`s Vanderson, though highly rated by Cafu (“a fantastic season… a top player”), are deemed too costly. When asked for his personal recommendation, Cafu identifies Achraf Hakimi as the world`s best right-back currently, and mentions Dani Carvajal`s return from injury. Intriguingly, he notes that Doué, another player reportedly on Milan`s radar, “made a decent impression” on him. This reveals the subtle complexities of the transfer market; even for a legend, the ideal solution is rarely simple.
“A tip for Milan`s right flank? Hakimi is the best, Doué made a decent impression on me.”
Scudetto Aspirations and Allegri`s Task
The discussion then shifts to broader Serie A prospects, particularly AC Milan`s Scudetto ambitions under Massimiliano Allegri. Milan`s pre-season start without their full complement of full-backs is acknowledged as a minor handicap, but Cafu remains confident: “Having the squad complete as soon as possible is an advantage, but the start of the championship is more than a month away, and Milan will be ready. I am convinced that the right reinforcements will arrive.”
Regarding Allegri`s capacity to maximize the new signings, Cafu expresses unwavering faith. “I have no doubts about his choice: he`s someone who works well, and you just need to give him time to implement his football. The results will come.” For Milan, the absence of European cups this season could be a significant advantage, allowing them to focus solely on the domestic league and Coppa Italia. “I hope they can fight for the Scudetto,” Cafu muses, acknowledging the potential benefits of a less congested schedule.
“I have no doubts about Allegri: just give him time. I hope he can bring the Scudetto.”
However, Cafu is also realistic about the competition. He points to Napoli and Inter, who have made strong market moves, potentially widening the gap. “Inter with Lookman could make a Scudetto-winning move, but Conte, with the additions of De Bruyne, Beukema, and Lucca, can also be competitive on all fronts.” Despite these strong contenders, Cafu maintains his characteristic optimism for Milan, even suggesting that a player like Dusan Vlahovic would be “a great acquisition” given his “great qualities,” acknowledging that striker performance often remains “an unknown.”
Cafu`s analysis offers a valuable glimpse into the mind of a footballing icon. His insights, devoid of fanfare and rich in technical understanding, provide a clear, concise, and compelling narrative on the intricate dance of the transfer market and the perpetual quest for success in Italian football. It`s a reminder that beneath the headlines and transfer fees, fundamental footballing principles, as championed by the Maestro of the flank, ultimately prevail.