Athirson Happy With 'New Roberto Carlos' Tag
Thursday 1st February 2001
Brazilian defender Athirson has warned Juventus fans that they will have to
be patient before they can see him in action but has promised to do all he
can to live up to the tag of the 'new Roberto Carlos'.
The former Flamengo left-back finally received permission from Fifa to join
Juve last week after a six-month wrangle between the two clubs. On Wednesday
he took part in his first training session, watched by his pregnant fiance
Roberta.
"I'm not ready to play at the moment," the 24-year-old international
revealed afterwards. "My last game was three months ago. We didn't reach the
Brazilian finals and I injured my thigh, though it is alright now.
"I want to help the team win the Scudetto. My new team-mates surprised me a
lot, they are a great team."
Athirson has only been granted a temporary transfer to Juve with Fifa still
to deliver their final verdict on the affair. However, general manager
Luciano Moggi is certain the decision will go in their favour.
"If they awarded us this one, it means they are in favour of the player
signing for us. The decisive meeting is on February 14 and we are
confident," he said.
The waiting has taken its toll on Athirson who, even accompanied with his
family, is struggling to adjust to life in Italy.
"I am anxious to have my future decided and Turin is so cold. Soon I'll meet
up with the other Brazilian players such as Leonardo and Ronaldo who live
near me though."
Yet the name on most Juventus fans lips is Roberto Carlos and the widespread
belief that Athirson will soon compare with the Real Madrid left-back.
"He is a fantastic player, an established star, while I have a lot of work
to do to be as good as him," the �10 million-rated player admitted. "But you
can say we have a similar style. I love to attack and to defend."
