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Everton Augusto de Barros Ribeiro has become a sensation after his exploits for his domestic club in Brazil – Cruzerio. He has drawn attention from footballing giants like Real Madrid and Manchester United in the last few months, which translates into a massive vote of confidence for the 24-year old. For all those who don’t know much about him, here is a sneak peek into the future star of world football.
Early Days
Everton had a modest beginning in the domestic league with the Corinthians. As most Brazilians, the youth player impressed with his dribbling and attacking flair. The talent was there for all to see, however, due to lack of first team opportunities, he was shipped to a smaller club in the São Paulo state.
He was eventually rewarded for his performances with a call up to the Brazil under-20 side, and subsequently went on to win the South American Championships in 2009. He finally moved to Cruzeiro, where he would go on to dazzle the world with his silky skills.
Rise to prominence
Although the midfielder had unquestionable talent, he was not able to exhibit it consistently, with erratic performances in the last couple of years. His breakthrough came this year, where he was instrumental in his club Cruzeiro’s title winning season. He racked up 7 goals and 11 assists this season.
Strengths
The left-footed winger is much of the ilk of Arjen Robben and Angel Di Maria. His first touch is exemplary. Fleet footed and well balanced, the Brazilian glides past defenders. His pace and trickery, along with an innate footballing brain which most Brazilians possess, render him a potent attacking weapon.
An eye for a pass and the talent of executing it with perfection allows him to be versatile and play in the middle of the park as well. The winger is at his best when he is cutting in from the right, onto his favorite left foot. Ribeiro is lethal with set plays, and delivers a great cross.
Weaknesses
At 5 feet 9 inches, his physique could be a potential weakness. With very little body strength, the winger gets bullied by the better defenders. His finishing has still not reached levels that you would come to expect of a world class player. Mental toughness is not his strongest suit, as he can get phased by pressure and could be a potential hurdle at top European clubs.
Potential
He has all the makings of a world class player. With age on his side, he has time to eradicate the few flaws from his game, and there is no reason why he cannot be up there with the best.
Verdict
He would be best suited to the Premier League because of his one touch passing and quick set-up play. A team like Manchester United, which by his own admission, is his next destination, will be ideal for the rising star. The Red Devils have relied on their wingers marauding down the flanks to provide the ammunition for their strikers over the years.
With a winger centric brand of football which is sure to suit the diminutive Brazilian, his move to Manchester United could be a match made in heaven.
