Oh Adriano, what has happened to the man who was once one of the most fearsome strikers in Europe? Built like a boxer, and packing an explosive shot, the former Inter Milan hitman was once regarded as Ronaldos heir apparent in the Brazil national side, and the man who might lead the Nerazzuri to European glory. Having struggled with depression, injury, drinking and fluctuating weight issues, the world has sadly been forced to witness a once-promising talents career slide slowly down the drain. The man is currently 32 years of age, and without a club. He hasnt scored a goal in Europe in six years, and has spent the last number of years struggling in vain to get his career back on track in South America. Perhaps he wishes he had taken advantage of a big-money move to Stamford Bridge when he had the chance? In the summer of 2005, the Brazilian superstar conceded that the Blues had made an offer for his services, but reaffirmed his desire to stay in Milan for at least another campaign.
''At Inter I am treated as a king and I expect to stay for at least one more year. But to speak the truth, Chelsea have appeared with a very important offer. I maybe can say it is an extraordinary offer. They want to go really far with their intentions. - Adriano, June 2005.
He subsequently stayed at the San Siro, where he bagged 18 goals in 47 appearances. His sad decline would soon begin however, as his problems took their toll, culminating in seven goals in 34 appearances over the next two seasons. This would not deter Chelsea from returning for his services, with Luiz Felipe Scolari foolishly attempting to swap Didier Drogba for his compatriot. Luckily for the Blues, the deal never materialised, and the 27 year olds Inter Milan contract was torn up before the end of the season. Perhaps he could have beaten his problems under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, when first approached in 2005? Or three years later, when his compatriot tried to lure him to Stamford Bridge - surely that would have given him an incentive to get his career back on track? Regrets? As he wakes up tomorrow morning with no training to go to, he probably has a few.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
