The Next Brazilian Midfield Maestro
Brazil have often seen the usage of a brilliant playmaker in their midfield. The player would function as the connecting bridge between attack and defence in a match and in Ganso, they appear to have one for the future. Hailed as the next 'Kaka' for the Canaries, Ganso has only made one single appearance for Brazil but based on his current development rate, history definitely beckons for the Santos playmaker.
Having been snapped up as a talented youngster by Santos in 2005, it took him three years to establish himself into the senior squad. He was awarded the number 10 jersey and was impressive during Santos' campaign in Copa Sao Paolo. Slowly as time progressed, Ganso's influence became more and more evident and his eye-catching outing during the U-20 World Cup was a major breakthrough in his career.
Ahead of the 2010 World Cup, media and fans started calling for Dunga to bring in Ganso as a substitue for Kaka', who was out of form at that time. Indeed, he was named as one of the seven backup players for the 23-men squad. Not too long later though, Ganso's chance finally came with Mano Menezes awarding him a debut in the friendly match against USA in August 2010. The highlight of his terrific debut was a superlative shot that rattled the crossbar.
Until now, that remains his one and only appearance in a Brazil shirt but a golden chance is arriving for Ganso. Ronaldinho, Kaka and all this midfield maestros have inspired Brazil in a major tournament and as far as the Santos playmaker is concerned, the time has indeed arrived now. Will he seize the chance?
Lowlights And Highlights
Lowlights
2009 U-20 World Cup: Ganso was already a shining star of these tournament. However, even his influence failed to inspire Brazil in the final against Ghana as they succumbed to a defeat on penalties.
2010 World Cup Squad Selection: Ganso was being tipped to make the cut for Dunga's squad after pleas from media and fans but depsite being selected as a backup player, he never made it to the 23-men squad.
Highlights
Friendly Match vs USA 2010: Ganso was handed his professional debut for Brazil in a friendly match against USA in August 2010.
Strength And Weaknesses
Ganso has all the attributes designed for a perfect playmaker in the mould of people like Kaka' and Wesley Sneijder. He is calm and collective on the ball, can put in some spectacular passes with little tricks on the way as well. A true midfield maestro in the making. Nevertheless, Ganso's decision making on the field can be messy at times and considering that the Copa America will be his first major tournament for Brazil, inexperience could be a destroying factor. His presence will be crucial in Mano Menezes' favoured 4-2-1-3 formation. The video attached below shows some of his true capabilities on the ball.
Current Form And Condition
Ganso has just recovered from an injury and some might say that it could be detrimental. But if the Copa Libertadores final was taken into consideration, Ganso showed no signs of rustiness by pulling the strings for Santos in midfield. His movement on the ball was a key factor in Santos' triumph. Per contra, the midfielder's future is still hanging in the balance with reported interest from AC Milan. Like Neymar, focus and concentration will be the key for Ganso.
