The Emperor Strikes Back!

By Dominic Vieira, writing from Portugal

The return of a legend? Adriano is on the brink of completing a shock return to the Serie A, where he transformed into a top class striker and earned the nickname ‘The Emperor’. The Brazilian striker will join league runners-up AS Roma and declared that he had unfinished business to resolve in Italy.

Adriano played 8 years in the Serie A where he normally wore the Inter Milan colours. He had a loan spell at Fiorentina and was co-owned by Parma during 2002 - 2004, his Parma days were his most prolific where he formed a deadly partnership with Adrian Mutu.

After making a promising start under José Mourinho in the 2008/2009 season, the striker left Inter due to an intense mental breakdown and depression, he returned to his home country to recover. On April the 24th 2009, Adriano terminated his contract under mutual consent, this allowed him to join the club who made him, his beloved CR Flamengo. The physical striker played 30 league games that season and played a major role in winning the Brasileirão, the last team they had lifted the league trophy was 17 years ago.

Adriano, is an experienced and lethal player, despite suffering from weight problems, the striker will offer leadership and skill to the Roma squad. He is physical player and is a relentless threat for defenders. Adriano works hard on the pitch and scores with his killer left foot and is unstoppable in the air. The 28 year old should not have any problems adapting to the team as he speaks fluent Italian and will play alongside 6 Brazilian players.

Adriano, who has represented Brazil on 48 occasions scoring 27 goals, did not make Dunga’s World Cup Squad. Adriano is determined to clean his name in Italy, prove his critics wrong and revamp his career. It won’t be an easy change for him as the pressure to perform in Italy is far greater than in Brazil. But if he stays out of the limelight, consistently works hard and scores goals, we may all see The Emperor rise from the ashes to glory.

Adriano was a fan favourite throughout his Inter days, his skill and beautiful goals would get the crowd roaring and awe in appreciation. Below is a video to revive some of The Emperor’s glory days. The final question is, can he emulate his greatness for AS Roma?