MIAMI GARDENS – Stephenfrom whom it is expected a lot, has had discreet performances in the Club World Cup. One of the problems is the anxiety. Sold since last year to Chelsea, to which he performs after the competition, the 18 -year -old said it was hard not to think about the English team and what he will live in England next season.
“It’s very difficult to keep me focused here (in Palmeiras),” admitted the player, after a 2-2 draw with Inter Miami who made Palmeiras go to the leading group A and thus get rid of Paris Saint-Germain. The rival in the round of 16 will be Botafogo.
“It’s a dream that I will realize, but knowing that I have to focus here. It’s not easy, the closer it comes, the anxiety is beating, the cold in the belly too,” Stephen added.
Discreet in Miami, Stephen is eager to perform to Chelsea Photo: Cesar Greco/Palmeiras
According to the young man, it is the family – his father and mother – those responsible for leaving his feet on the ground and head still on Palmeiras, even if it is impossible not to project what will be his career in Chelsea.
“It’s hard because you imagine yourself playing in Europe, with several other players, with everything that represents Europe. It’s a dream of mine,” argued the athlete.
Paulista de Franca was negotiated with Chelsea in operation that can reach 61.5 million euros. At the time, it was the biggest sale in the history of Brazilian football.
“They (parents) who charge me to have their heads here. I’m trying to focus my best because I know I have to deliver for Palmeiras,” he continued. “I’m trying to focus as much out of here, the front door.”
The Palmeirense striker faced Messi for the first time and, unlike the idol, was not well on the field. He lived a discreet night and more watched the Argentine star play than he produced. At the end of the first half, he left quickly to greet his idol in the tunnel toward the locker room.
He and the cast of Palmeiras slept in Miami and return on Tuesday Greensboro, base town of the team in North Carolina. There will be a regenerative training – without the presence of the press – at the hotel where they are staying.
