Are We Being Fair To Giovani?

Giovani Dos Santos looked like a completely baffled man. At least his recent comments as quoted by media give us an impression of a very confused person. From the moment Barcelona's season started going, all the fingers started pointing on him along with Ronaldinho. It was said that he will never be able to make a switch to first team action. His hardships were increased by the fact that his colleague Bojan, who was promoted along with him, looked like cemented his position. He has scored only four goals throughout the season compared to Bojan's eleven. he could only manage ten La Liga starts compared to Bojan's fourteen. He had to wait till the last game to get into the La Liga goal books, even though he did that is style. Barcelona fans and media are searching for scapegoats at every nook and he appears to be one of their favourite now. Before the start of this season, he was linked to a number of clubs but he came forward and declared that his future is with Barcelona. At that time that was hailed by Barcelona fans and used to question Fabregas' decision. But at the end of the season it looks like Giovani might be regretting his decision.

Many Barcelona fans have already written him off as an over rated players. True that he came to the team as the next Ronaldinho; but expecting that he will turn around the fortunes of the club was too much. Everyone seems like forgetting the fact that this is his first season and not interested in giving him some breathing space. I do agree with the fact that Bojan had made more impact than Dos Santos in the first season; but how can you write him off just because his first season didn't come off that well. Bojan has been more consistent among the two and also have been more effective. But isn't it because he get a chance to play more in his natural positions. Most of his goals are from simple tap in; I do agree that he has a great positioning sense and a great goal scoring instinct. Giovani is a different player to Bojan; he fits more into the playmaker style of role than the striker. Many times this season he seemed lost when he started in the lineup. But isn't it natural in a maiden season. Even Messi in his first season gave an impression that he cannot shoot to save his life. The fact that he made his debut in a difficult season should not be held against him. Already suggestions are made to send him on loan to another club so that he can gain experience. I don't understand this theory, why Barcelona is a bad place to earn experience? Giovani has shrugged off this suggestion; many consider this as arrogance. But I would like to consider this as a testimony to his tough character. He has categorically stated that, if he leaves it will be forever. He looks like a kid with tough character and a great belief in him. If Barcelona decides to sell him in the end it would be a sad day for the club and its youth system. It also sends the wrong signals to youngsters that First team will not be accommodative for the young talents. Secondly I am totally convinced about his talents and is absolutely sure that he will make Barca pay for such a mistake. But I have a feeling Barcelona is strongly considering to sell him, otherwise with so much rumours floating Barcelona board would have backed him. Maybe they are waiting for the right price.

Top Three Barcelona Goals of This Season

Usually when you think about rating the best goals of the season, there always exist a chance that you may go bad, especially with Barcelona. But not this time friends, not this time. It was pretty easy. There were only a handful of goals which can be considered, and picking the best was as easy as it gets. This is my list and if I have missed some please let me know. I have short listed three goals, with Henry, Eto and Ronnie making their presence . Its a pity I could not include the best player of this season - Iniesta in the list. The list starts in the reverse order.


3) Third in the list is Eto's goal against Mallorca in a 2-0 victory.

2) Henry features on the list at number 2 with this stunning strike against Celtic in that thrilling 3-2 victory.


1) Who can be in the top position - Ronaldinho. With this unbelievable goal against Athletico Madrid. Barcelona lost the match 4-2.

Rumours, Rumours Everywhere - Kaka linked to Barcelona

After a hugely disappointing season, it is not at all a surprise that Barcelona based dailies having already started speculation about which all are coming to the club. But this one was unexpected. Kaka is being linked to a move to Barcelona. El Sport have broken the story of a possible exchange, may be the biggest in any club's history which may involve Ronaldinho and Zambrotta and an additional 20 million Euros for the current world player of the year. This could be ideally another scoop by the daily to thrill their readers, as Milan have not yet showed the slightest hint of letting their hands off Kaka. Moreover they were trying to buy Ronaldinho in order to build a team which revolves around the two great Brazilians. There are indications that Barcelona might even place Deco on the discussion table to tempt Milan in to this move. Whatever, I have to admit that this is one rumour that I loved the most. I don't know whether he will come or not, but just the possibility of seeing Messi and Kaka together drives me crazy.

Another rumour, which could be turning to be true involves another Brazilian - Dani Alves.Its absolute certain that Alves will be moving out of Sevilla this season, but the only question remains is where? Barcelona is rumoured to have tabled an offer for 25 million Euros. Last year Sevilla rejected a 36 million euro deal for him, but this year they might have to let him go as he is at the end of his contract. Sevilla will be trying to make as much as money from Alves who was bought for a mere €848,000. Real Madrid and Liverpool all are interested in him and that could make Barcelona's job tougher. Things will become more difficult if Chelsea or Manchester United enter the fray.

Another two guys who have been strongly linked to Barcelona is the French footballer of the year - Benezema and Huntelaar. Both of them are very aspiring prospects. But early indications suggest that Lyon will not let goo of Benezema that cheaply. Barcelona has to sell big in order to buy these guys. Then there is the interest in Capel and Lahm. But the worst story which is breaking out is a possible move of Eto to Tottenham. Eto is said to be unhappy about the way the Nou Camp crowd treated him last week. He was jeered whenever he got the ball and is looking for a move to premiership. Strong indications are coming about a possible offer for Messi from Chelsea. But Barcelona will not be in a mood to let him go. Ashley Cole has suggested that Messi is better than Ronaldo and would love to play along with him. Now we know why they are saying all these.