Brazil made hard work of a dedicated North Korean side in their opening World Cup 2010 game, but they had their moments of samba flair. Among their brightest players was relative international rookie, Michel Bastos.
The Olympique Lyonnais player made it into Brazil’s national team in October 2009, appearing in a friendly double-header against England and Oman and was a player to watch in Brazil’s last game against Ireland.
Although the Robinho look-a-like plays most of his club football on the left wing, he has been slotted into the left-back position for his country.
His surging runs and typically Brazilian bag of tricks were on display against Korea and he proved one of the most entertaining players to watch over the 90 minutes. But while many a winger shoe-horned into a left-back role might burst forward a bit too often and neglect their defensive duties in the process, Bastos was as full of running when getting back into position as he was on the attack.
Another big strike in Bastos’ favour is his ability to score goals. In his 37 appearances for Lille the season before last he scored 14 goals and registered a further nine assists.
Potential suitors: Barcelona, Manchester City
The ability of the 26-year-old is one of the worst kept secrets in club competition and if he is to take his leave of French football, it will be for a big money club.
Barca could be among the first to come calling thanks to the fact that they may soon be dealing with the departure of Thierry Henry.
Barcelona’s left-back slot has been filled to a large degree by Bastos’ fellow Brazilian Maxwell – an attacking left-back it could be argued, who is in the vein of Bastos – although perhaps not as good. The latter’s versatility might make him that bit more of an attractive prospect.
Man City may also come calling on Bastos as they seek to fill every other position with the best players they can get their greasy mitts on. The money will be good, but will Bastos be turned off by the fate of the Brazilians who have tested the water at Man City to date?
