Why You'll Like Him
His all action energetic style has endeared him to fans at each of his clubs.
Why You'll Hate Him
Occasionally prone to ill-timed and ill-advised outbursts.
Tevez will be hoping to carry over his form from the 2009/10 Premier League season onto the biggest stage as he will look to spearhead Argentina’s bid to win the World Cup. ‘El Apache’ is a tigerish, energetic forward coming off the back of a superb debut for Manchester City.
His record at international level – just 9 goals in 49 starts – perhaps backs up suggestions that he is not the most natural of goalscorers but he is often vying for space in a star studded Argentinean forward line.
Fact Sheet
Age: 26
Position: Forward
Club Teams: Boca Juniors (2001-2004), Corinthians (2004-2006), West Ham United (2006-2007), Manchester United (2007-2009), Manchester City (2009-present)
National Team Debut: 2004
Caps: 49
World Cup(s): 2006
Club World
Controversial may be a little strong when describing his club career but Tevez has certainly garnered headlines, mainly as a result of his links with Kia Joorabchian and MSI. Firstly, a move to big spending Brazilian side Corinthians in 2004, before then signing for West Ham and helping them to an improbable escape from relegation in 2007 amidst recriminations, accusations and lawsuits over the issue of the ownership of his ‘economic rights’.
A move to Manchester United followed but in truth he never quite settled in as a regular starter, often second fiddle to Rooney and Ronaldo, with Sir Alex Ferguson opting to start him from the bench, particularly in his second season. As his loan deal drew to a close it became apparent he was headed for pastures new and duly signed for rivals Manchester City in a big money move that caused consternation to United fans, but City fans quickly found themselves a new idol as he broke the twenty goal barrier in his debut season en route to being named player of the year at the club during their fifth place finish in 2009/10.
National Team
Given the riches on offer to Diego Maradona, it is by no means certain that Tevez is sure of his place in the starting lineup as he is vying with Leo Messi, Diego Milito, Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and veteran Martin Palermo for a place in the side. Of late, Maradona has favoured Messi and Higuain as his front pairing but Tevez will hope that his energetic style of play and work rate could see him elevated to the lineup, particularly if Maradona opts for two strikers with Messi playing just behind.
Although this may result in a different role than used to with City, Tevez will still likely have a big role to play and he has spoken recently of how prepared and ready he is so he could well have a big tournament. Even if Tevez doesn’t make the starting lineup then he could still have a big impact from the bench later in games when the opposition is tiring and his energy and pace can be used to great effect.
What to Look For
Argentina are always amongst the leading contenders for the tournament but they struggled through to qualification under rookie coach Diego Maradona. However, as the tournament has drawn closer many commentators have tipped them as genuine contenders and they should emerge from the group without too many problems. If they can build up a head of steam through their group games then no side will fancy meeting them in the knock-out stages.
Danny Pugsley's built up a head of steam at Bitter and Blue, SB Nation's Manchester City blog. Danny will be contributing to SB Nation Soccer for the 2010 World Cup.
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