When Chelsea announced the signing of Lucas Piazon, some quarters of the Blues fan base were understandably perplexed, but equally excited about the arrival of another Brazilian star at Stamford Bridge.
While many hadn’t seen the youngster in action for Sao Paulo, being labelled the next Kaka would undoubtedly have had fans rubbing their hands with glee over the possible move for the youngster. Granted, Piazon has figured sporadically in the first team following his arrival from Brazil, but the sporadic appearances he has made have given supporters an insight into what the midfielder is capable of.
Nevertheless, with Oscar, Eden Hazard, Juan Mata and Victor Moses all firing on all cylinders when called upon, attaining a spot in the starting XI was always going to be difficult. It was no surprise, in that case, to see the youngster go out on loan in January with the aim of him garnering further first team experience.
With Malaga, there couldn’t be a team better suited to his development across the continent. Technique wise, the Primera Division is one of the continents strongest and with the attacking approach Los Boquerones head coach Manuel Pellegrini regularly adopts, it’s a perfect environment for Piazon to develop.
Having made his first start in a Malaga shirt in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Athletic, providing the assist for Javier Saviola’s strike in the 18th minute, it’s fair to say the playing time Piazon will garner will go a long way to improving him as a player, which will no doubt benefit him and Chelsea.