Lucas Pezzini

Yet another Brazilian, but this time with an edge. Lucas Pezzini has been winning all kinds of accolades in Brazil for his characteristically un-Brazillian play in the center of midfield. A new Dunga has emerged, a style of player tailor made for the European leagues.

When you watch him play the word that comes to mind is efficient. If you need a tackle, he’ll dirty his shorts, a simple long ball is done simply, and a short pass is short. You won’t see any tricks and flicks in his repertoire to excite fans but what you do get is a player with excellent awareness of his surroundings and the flow of the game. It’s the kind of player every top team needs to compliment their superstars: someone who’ll do the dirty work and keep hold of the football pitch’s most valuable real estate.

(sorry about the horror music)

At only age 20 he’s the captain of Brazil’s under 20 youth side and won the South American under 20 title (scoring 4 in 7 matches). Oh, and he’s won the player of the year award in the Brazilian championship for 2006.

Lucas Pezzini is as complete a 20 year old as you will ever see. Bringing defensive skills, a good shot on goal, poise, awareness and stability to a side he’ll only become more valuable. Coming soon to one of the biggest teams in the world near you.