Pranav Nair
Rafael Da Silva reveals why Anderson never fulfilled his potential at Manchester United
Writing in his autobiography (h/t The Mirror), Rafael Da Silva has opened up on what prevented Anderson from reaching his full potential at Manchester United.
The Brazilian joined United from Porto in 2007. A highly-rated youngster, he quickly went on to establish himself as an important player for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side. He would eventually go on to make 181 appearances for the Red Devils scoring nine goals and making 21 assists in his eight-year stay at Old Trafford.
The numbers may appear modest and to a large degree fails to give a clear idea of just how the player was on the field. But alas his story will always remain one of unfilled talent. Da Silva certainly believes so and reckons his compatriit had it in him to be counted among the world’s best.
“I will say something about Anderson – if he had been a professional football player, he could have been the best in the world.”
According to the report, McDonald’s had a role to play in Anderson’s demise as a top-level football. The midfielder’s taste for fast food caused fitness and weight issues that proved difficult to overcome.
“We could be on the team coach and pass the services on the motorway and Anderson would jump up impulsively and yell ‘McDonald’s, McDonald’s”
While injuries also played a major role in Anderson’s struggles, it was exacerbated due to his unhealthy eating habit. Perhaps to illustrate the point, Da Silva admits that his comrade’s best run of form came when he was kept away from fast food and made to concentrate on the field.
“It was no coincidence that his best form came when he had a lot of games because that was when he couldn’t eat so much.”
Successful but to an extent
A popular player at the club, Anderson’s tale is a cautionary one for budding young players. While he did enjoy a storied career, it could have been so much more. While his ability on the field spoke for itself, it was the lack of discipline off it that proved decisive.
“He would just eat whatever was put in front of him.”
Anderson won four Premier League titles, a League Cup, one UEFA Champions League crown and a club World Cup at United. He the Golden Ball at the Under-17 FIFA World Cup in 2007 and the Golden Boy award in 2008.
More Manchester United News
- Transfer News: Real Madrid star Raphael Varane keen on Manchester United move
- Atletico Madrid stance on Kieran Trippier joining Manchester United revealed
- David De Gea returns to Manchester United training ahead of schedule
Still just 33, there is no reason why Anderson could not have been playing football to this day. Instead, his best days were long gone even before he reached his prime. It will be a matter of debate of just what the Brazilian could have gone on to achieve had he set his priorities right.
