Raul Meireles
Last night Arsenal played FC Porto in the pre-season Amsterdam Tournament. Arsenal won the game 2-1 but not without problems.One of the main causes of this was Raul Meireles who stood out for Porto in defensive midfield. He’s strong physically and holds the space. No wonder Porto were willing to sell Maniche and Costinha. He was there last season waiting to replace them.
Porto’s talent scouts are the best in Portugal and only second to Sporting Lisbon with its youth academy. Notice they continue to do fine post Mourinho.
Originally from neighboring club Boavista FC’s youth system, Meireles was loaned out to Desportivo das Aves in 2001. Returning to Boavista in 2003 he had a great season. In 2004, the 22 year old signed for FC Porto in a five year deal, not even leaving his home city.
Last night Arsenal was up against a talented midfielder. I was impressed with his energy and tidiness. Raul Meireles made the pass which led to Porto’s only goal and was the main reason Porto had the better of the midfield against Arsenal.
The Gunners need a defensive midfielder, hint hint.
Labels: FC Porto, Up and coming players
by Football Commentator at 8/01/2005 07:20:00 PM
5 Comments:
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i too wondered if wenger was hinting anything when he praised this guy
As a gunner im hoping Wenger follows up on this. I would love to see both Meireles and Benni Mcarthy at Arsenal. He also praised Gonzalez the winger. Possible Pires replacement?
I cant stand you but I'm with you on this one. He was quality.
We could pick up Meireles and Mcarthy relatively cheaply.Hopefully,the fact that Wenger praised these players might mean that he is considering buying the same.Regardless of the Vieira out/Hleb in situation,the squad is not large enough to compete with injuries/suspensions and there are too many inexperienced youngsters to handle the various pressures of a long season (particularly at away matches).Mcarthy,in particular,is very experienced and is a player who would give us other options up front especially when Henri is not available.It would certainly be better than the alternative since Baptista turned us down and that is to buy no one at all!!
Considering that Arsene likes to have transfers signed and sealed before anyone even knows he's interested, I think a move for any of the Porto players highly unlikely.
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