Ganso's Time Has Finally Come

Over the years Brazil has produced some of football's biggest talents. Ronaldinho and Ronaldo dominated the early 2000's and as their influence waned a new crop of Brazilian talents took over.

Paulo Henrique Ganso was one of the youngsters who had the task of replacing their illustrious seniors on the international stage. The young play maker joined Santos in 2005 and was touted as the South American giant's next 'number 10'. He impressed at his new club and formed a formidable partnership with his close friend Neymar. Neymar provided the skill and trickery as Ganso provided technical ability and a supreme eye for an assist as Santos won the Campeonato Paulista in 2010.

Interest from European giants soared as Ganso starred in the tournament.Then disaster struck. In August 2010, he damaged his left knee and was sidelined for six months. The injury put an end to all interest from Europe. Ganso was devastated and his career suffered greatly due to injuries and loss of form and he eventually left Santos for Sao Paulo in 2012. He left Santos with a Copa Libertadores medal.  He set out to put his struggles behind him and eventually found form once again.

He was handed number 10 shirt at his new club and he has not looked back since. He even won a call-up to the Brazilian squad at the Copa America.His resurgence has not gone unnoticed and after a failed move to Orlando City in the MLS, Ganso has finally sealed the move to Europe he deserves. Sevilla offered the play maker a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee. His transfer to Europa League Champions might have come late but at 26, Ganso still has the best parts of his career ahead of him. If he can avoid injuries, then he will be very important for Jorge Sampaoli.  His technique and strength make him a perfect fit for Spanish football. His skill and hunger to finally make good of his chance in Europe will help him succeed in his new environment.

His close friend Neymar will be close by to help him settle in Spain and Sampaoli will be around to assist him anyway he can. Ganso finally has the chance to show why he was once billed as Brazil's next big play maker. If his performances for Sao Paulo are anything to go by, he will take that opportunity with both hands.