CARLOS TEVEZ’S TROUBLED spell in China looks to be over after flying home to Argentina — just as his side Shanghai Shenhua won the FA Cup.
The 33-year-old Argentine forward has had a miserable 11 months in China despite earning some of the highest wages in world football, an estimated €730,000 a week.
The former Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus star has played only half the games and scored just four Chinese Super League (CSL) goals all season.
He was not involved in the FA Cup final first leg or Sunday’s second leg at rivals Shanghai SIPG, Shenhua winning the title on away goals despite going down 3-2 on the night.
Shenhua coach Wu Jingui said Tevez jetted home after he failed to make the squad for the second leg and his career in China is almost certainly over, although Wu would not be drawn on that.
“He wasn’t named in the squad so he made the decision to go back to Argentina. I understand why — a player of his high level,” said Wu.
“Tevez has made a great contribution, especially in the FA Cup, he’s not like the person that people say — he is hardworking in training, training twice a day, morning and afternoon.
“He did a great job and technically he’s a great player.”
Wu, who led Shenhua to FA Cup glory after taking over from Gus Poyet, previously labelled Tevez overweight and had said that he would not play the Argentine former international until he shaped up.
Chinese football fans have been less than impressed with Tevez too, labelling him “very homesick boy” — a nod to his penchant for flying back to Argentina at signs of trouble.
He has been linked with a return to his former club Boca Juniors
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I don’t care if he decided to up his game. He probably did that to get himself fit for a transfer. As usual he was in it for himself. If he cared at all about the team he would have been with them no matter what. Instead he’s on the first available plane out of the country.
Biggest heist of modern times.
He should wear a striped jumper and a balaclava the whole time.
You’d think the Chinese would have more sense to sign him
He should have ripped league to shreds. Instead, he has shown himself to be an ill disciplined narcissist. No surprise.
@Stonerpug: Sure didn’t go on strike whilst at City for a fee months?
@Dave Murray: few*
Players seem to get an awful going these days from some quarters when salaries, transfer fees and club loyalty are concerned. People forget that clubs have inflated the market and players only look for the going rate. As for loyalty, it should be a two way street but it’s not, players who look for a move are seen as disloyal snakes but clubs who want to sell them on mid contract are only doing business. Don’t feel sorry for clubs and put yourself in the players position..
@bombboy: obviously going on strike is not on, as in tevez case previously
Isn’t there a clause in his contract that boca would have to return halfway there transfer fee if he didn’t see out his contract. I’m sure they won’t be happy if he quits.