Roma Gamble with Adriano Signing

Finally the Emperor has returned. Adriano has gone to AS Roma on a free transfer from Flamengo, the Empreror has arrived in the capital, but will it be a smart move by Roma? Adriano’s contract is said to be worth around 5 million euros a season (plus performance-related bonuses) and it will expire on June 30th 2013. Adriano is full of confidence, and after signing his new contract here a couple of statements by the Brazilian,

“I am very happy to be at Roma and to play with the Giallorossi jersey. I hope it all goes well and am convinced we’ll have a great season. I am here and must prove what I can do. I will do it. I am ready to take on Inter.”

While Adriano is returning to the league which gave him the name “The Emperor” thanks to his imperious performances of great skill, he’s also known to be lazy and lethargic at times. After the death of his father, Adriano had a lot of difficulty motivating himself while playing for Inter Milan. Due to his lack of confidence, Adriano began to gain weight, and his performances were less and less convincing as he lagged behind a rising Ibrahimovic. Adriano had to eventually get his contract terminated by Inter Milan as he moved back to Brazil in hopes of being able to revive his career.

The emperor joined Flamengo and found his will to play again, back among the people who loved him, Adriano looked like a man playing amongst kids in the Brazilian league. In 30 appearances Adriano scored 19 goals, leading Flamengo to a wonderful title win in Brazil. So it seems like Adriano has found his form with his short spell in Brazil, but while there is a difference between the Brazilian championship and the Serie A, there’s also something else important to note.

In Brazil things are different, Adriano often arrived late, or skipped practices with no consequences because he was the big star, and he was known for spending time with drug-lords which used to be his friends back when he was a child in the favelas. In Brazil, everything was centered around Adriano’s well being, the club officials were fine with his behavior as long as he could keep on banging in the goals for the team. In Italy, players aren’t pampered as much, they’re expected to be at practice on time, give their best, and motivate themselves for the most part. So while Adriano is confident now, he’s going to have to put in 100% and stay motivated if he wants to succeed.

Let me say it now though, Adriano is joining a great team, he’s the perfect replacement for an aging Totti. With players like Vucinic, Menez, and Pizarro surrounding him, he will have good service and support from his teammates. But in the end, it’s all up to him, he will determine whether he succeeds or fails.

How do you think Adriano will do? Be sure to share your thoughts below!