Giovani’s decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur

The following text is taken directly from Giovani Dos Santos‘ official web-site.

“There have been several versions heard as to why Giovani is now playing in England’s second division, among them word that he has failed, has regressed, that he is upset that Tottenham was sending him to the reserve, etc.

It must first be said that this is not is not what was expected when Giovani chose to leave Barcelona. At the time, his intention was to have more minutes, continue with his development, and this is what was offered to him at Tottenham, a team that appeared in good position to contend against England’s top four.

Unfortunately, the Spurs did not have the results they expected – and we must be clear and honest here – and the team failed completely in all aspects. As a consequence of bad results the manager opted for illogical formations and style of play, the defense was very weak/fragile, the midfield failed to dominate, and the forwards failed to score goals.

The manager was sacked after winning only two points out of a possible twenty-seven in the league and the situation radically changed with the arrival of a new manager, Harry Redknapp. He initially utilized a formation of five midfielders and only one forward, a situation that was detrimental to all of Tottenham’s forwards. Additionally, he selected his squad based on players’ experience and he further developed his preferred approach through various signings during the winter transfer window.

Before these factors, nineteen year-old Giovani, had few opportunities to prove himself.

We must acknowledge that this is the “reality” of life; there are many situations which must be overcome.

The Spurs have been eliminated from the FA Cup, the Carling Cup, and the UEFA tournament and thus they only have one competition left: the Premiership – where Giovani would have little or no activity. The end of the season is approaching and he could have either endured through this time with Tottenham from his chair on the sideline or from the bench, both without seeing any playing time.

Gio did not want this and instead searched for and found an opportunity that would allow for playing time in England’s second division.

For some this could be an unattractive alternative; seeing it more logical to and perhaps more comfortable to stay with a Premiership side and simply wait for the summer transfer window to open to make an exit. This would be the alternative to facing head-on a situation that could be a potential catalyst for a regression in skill and form.

The decision was to go the lower division, foregoing or even risking prestige, but gaining rhythm, form, and continuity with the objective of aiding Mexico’s national team which is also in a difficult situation after poor results in its World Cup qualification.

What we are sure of is that Giovani has not given up. With his decision he is showing great maturity, that he has clearly defined goals, that he is in search of his role, all while fighting against the obstacles that have crossed his path in life.

I strongly believe that to have lived through these situations at such a young age will only help Giovani out. First as a person, in allowing him to understand the value of things and of life itself, and second, to allow him to become a great player in the future.”

The translation is my own but you can find the original text here.