Inter Milan's new Brazilian forward, Luis Henrique, has quickly become a talking point, not just in Italy but also amongst South African football enthusiasts. The 23-year-old, recently acquired from Olympique Marseille for €25 million, made his first start for Inter Milan in their Club World Cup match against Urawa Reds.
Who is Luis Henrique?
Henrique's journey to the top started in Três Passos, Brazil, before moving to Botafogo. His impressive performances caught the attention of European giants like Bayern Munich and Juventus, ultimately leading to his transfer to Marseille in 2020.
Impact at Olympique Marseille
During his time in France, Luis Henrique established himself as a key player. In the 2024/25 season, he scored nine goals and provided ten assists in 35 appearances, making him a vital contributor to the Marseille squad. This performance earned him the move to Inter Milan.
European Underestimation of South American Football?
Henrique has highlighted a potential underestimation of South American football within Europe. He suggests that European players often don't watch South American leagues, leading to surprises when facing teams like Fluminense and Palmeiras in global tournaments. According to him, that might cause European teams to underestimate the level of football in these competitions.
- Focus on the Club World Cup: Henrique emphasised Inter Milan's focus on winning the Club World Cup, stating that the entire squad is dedicated to achieving the title.
- Carlos Augusto's Warning: Another Brazilian in the Inter Milan squad, Carlos Augusto, reportedly warned his teammates about the quality and fighting spirit of South American teams.
Luis Henrique's rise is a testament to his talent and hard work. He’s not just making waves on the pitch; he's also sparking conversations about the global perception of South American football, a topic relevant to football fans everywhere, including South Africa.