Might be unwise to put a player who’s played 20 minutes since moving to Europe at fourth, but Gabigol is not your run-of-the-mill player. He’s too raw for Europe at the moment, as he was used to a free role for Santos, as a second striker who would pick up the ball and create opportunities for target man Ricardo Oliveira. Frank De Boer was not the coach for him, but the past two games, he’s grabbed his chances by the scruff of the neck and impressed Stefano Pioli. The jury is still out on his best position, but he has shown similarities to Sergio Agüero in playing style, and he has the potential to be a top 5 center forward in Europe. He came to Europe with an Olympic gold medal hanging around his neck, but his transition to Europe has not gone as expected. The last 6 months have stagnated his progress, but his mentality is good enough to combat this current adversity, and win a spot in the Nerazzurri’s lineup, and a spot in the Interisti hearts. Gabigol is a big game player, with a great personality and tip-top physical condition. He carefully calculated his move to Europe, perhaps he was even promised a starting spot, but his move across the pond has not gone to plan. He’s skilled in and around the box, a natural goalscorer, but he’s also improved his all-round game by playing right wing for Santos. With exceptional movement, cunning finishing, and superb all-round game, Gabigol has everything it takes to succeed in Europe.
Photo Credit: Eduardo Anizelli/Folhapress