It looks to be Spain or bust for Giovani dos Santos. And it appears the 22-year-old Mexican starlet is going to have to be content with bust for the time being.
Currently, dos Santos is training with Tottenham and pulling on a uniform every now and then in order to sit quietly on Harry Redknapp's bench. He has made just four appearances this season in EPL action, all as a sub, and in four years with the club, he's made 15 starts and gone out on loan three times (Ipswich Town, Galatasaray and Racing Santander). Clearly, that isn't enough playing time for a player who should be on the cusp of his best days as a professional.
Dos Santos acknowledges this. He wants a move. According to his representatives, clubs in Russia and the United States have made offers for him, giving "Gio" an immediate avenue out north London after a career-stalling stint with Spurs.
Apparently, though, Major League Soccer isn't of any interest to the 22-year-old Mexican starlet.
Here is the MLS-centric quote from dos Santos' representative, Vicente Montes, to cancha.com, which hit the web on Monday:
"With all due respect, MLS is not for a 22-year-old player."
Ouch. At least Montes used the "with all due respect" precursor.
On first glance, Montes' words sound pretty harsh, especially if you're a fan of MLS or a young 20-something plying their trade on these shores. These 24 guys, especially, might have a bone to pick with that assessment.
Honestly, though, I can't really begrudge dos Santos (or his management) for having that mindset. He feels entitled to what he considers a fair shot in Europe. I get that. Fair enough. After all, this is a guy who scored a few scattered golazos for Barcelona as a youngster and has the talent to score absolutely filthy goals on the big stage.
Then again, nobody seems to be willing to pay Tottenham's asking price to bring dos Santos to their club, which should be a wake up call for a guy with tons of talent but little to show for it away from action with El Tri.
Is Montes' statement fair? Or is it ignorant blathering from a guy working for client who only has eyes for Spain?
On a more entertaining note, how would you respond to Montes using the "with all due respect" prelude?
