Former Braga boss on Zalazar and Sporting: Give him a year or two | OneFootball

Rodrigo Zalazar’s signing by Sporting continues to spark debate, and some believe the Lions’ record investment could turn into a huge deal in the future. Rui Duarte, the midfielder’s former coach at Braga, has no doubts about the Uruguayan international’s potential. The coach admitted that the amount paid by Sporting is high, but fully believes in the return.

"It’s a lot of money, 30 million. At the same time, looking at the value he can gain at Sporting, both in the league and in the Champions League... They are big investments, but they can bring returns. Players are worth a lot because of what they produce and, if he produces a lot, he will end up being cheap...If he has one or two good years at Sporting, he could be sold. If he performs, he will be cheap and will justify the investment", he said in comments to O JOGO.

Rui Duarte also believes that Zalazar arrives ready to take on immediate responsibility at Alvalade, especially in a scenario where Francisco Trincão or Pote could leave. "Sporting anticipated these departures, or at least one of them. They are bringing in a player with numbers, technical quality and the ability to play wide like Pote and inside like Trincão. He can take on a similar role", he analyzed.

The former Braga coach went even further and believes the Uruguayan has the quality to reach even higher levels. "I believe he is ready to deliver and grow even more. I think he can play for a big club in Europe’s top five leagues", he said.

On the South American player’s qualities, he highlighted: "He is very powerful, physically strong, strikes the ball very well, scores goals, provides assists and understands the moments of the game. He is a major asset for Sporting", he said, praising his characteristics.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.