The Inept One

Till today, I still wonder what frightening potential that Arsene Wenger saw in him. Perhaps, two seasons ago, he was then scorching the La Liga scoring charts. Became hot property, snubbed Arsenal and left for Real Madrid.

Then came the Loan Exchange, Reyes went the other way. This Brazilian bloke, known affectionately as the Beast, was acquired and many expected him to score goals alongside Henry, Adebayor and Van Persie in the Premiership.

Plenty of expectations….he didn’t start soon…used more in FA and Carling Cup matches. The only highlight of his season was that 4-goal haul at Anfield. I thought the rudiments of a great striker was taking shape. I was wrong. Thereafter, it was misses after misses. I’ve never seen someone donning the Arsenal shirt played so badly.

Among all the Brazilians… Silvinho, Edu or Gilberto, the Beast sure stands out as the worst Brazilian import ever. Even my friend, a neutral fan, called me, and said “Baptista is starting, this guy will spray the ball everywhere. Arsenal sure gone fxxx”. My, how right he was.

I thought Baptista ever lamented that he didn’t have enough first team chances…well, the big chance did came when Henry and Van Persie were out for the rest of season 06/07. Out came the big stage for the Beast to perform.

What did he do? Yes. Sprayed the ball everywhere. He did everything wrong. His headers goes awry, his touch let him down repeatedly, he balloon countless chances, hit rugby shots, squander possession with apparent nonchalance… he even collided with Diaby when an open goal was there for the taking. His entire package looks crude and his reading of the game was woeful.

He really irks me... from his failure to supply a final telling ball or to get a shot on target after reaching a promising position. He never contributed more than the rare flashes of flair, it hints of some samba talent rather than actually achieving it. To be fair, the Beast needs prodigious resolve to prosper in his striking role so well illuminated by the likes of Bergkamp, Wright or Henry. Sadly, this quality is what the Beast do not possess.

With two games left before the end of season 06/07, I hope he gets shipped back to Madrid. I am sure he hasn't lost his grip on his game, his vast potential can be better tapped back in Spain.

Let's not be so sure... a different struggle may awaits...