Athirson Introduced at Juventus As He Awaits FIFA's OK
TURIN, Italy (January 31, 2001 7:14 p.m. EST http://www.sportserver.com) -
Brazilian defender Athirson was unveiled to the press by Italian giant
Juventus here Wednesday despite the fact that his controversial move from
Rio de Janeiro side Flamengo has yet to be sanctioned by world governing
body FIFA.
Last week Italian authorities said the transfer could be registered on a
provisional basis, allowing the 24-year-old left back to train with the
club, but he will not be able to kick a ball in anger until his deal is
rubber stamped.
The player was reluctant to talk about the saga, but said: "I think I can be
useful to Juventus and we will try and win this Scudetto. The team I have
seen has impressed me a lot and we have all the cards to win."
Athirson Mazoli De Oliveira, who will wear the number 28 jersey should the
move be approved, played down his tag as the 'new Roberto Carlos,' whom he
described as 'sacred.'
"I don't know if I will ever be as good as him, but our characteristics are
similar," he said.
Flamengo maintains that Athirson had instructed his agent, Marlene Mattos,
to negotiate an extension to his deal with the club and is disputing the
transfer.
