SPAIN international Thiago Alcantara has revealed he hates modern football and believes the game has lost it’s magic.
The 30-year-old has slammed the introduction of VAR – claiming he’s always been against it – and believes the No10 position has ‘almost disappeared’.
When asked how football has changed since he made his Barcelona debut in 2009, he told The Guardian: “It’s taken up a different pace, rhythm: more accelerated, more physical.
“The figure of the No10 has almost disappeared. We see less magic, less fantasy.
“You lose that player who’s different, who ‘breathes’ – the playmaker who was slower even if he had sublime technique doesn’t get the opportunity to turn.
“I have that ‘hate modern football’ mentality, I’m more classic in attitude.
“And then there’s VAR, which I’ve always opposed. It removes the essence, the picaresque.
“We make mistakes when we play, referees have to make mistakes too. Lots of mythical moments wouldn’t exist [with VAR].
“And when you score, even a brilliant goal from the halfway line, you’re waiting. Thinking, ‘I hope there isn’t a foul in the buildup, I hope there’s no offside.'”
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Thiago’s opinion on VAR is unlikely to have improved since he moved to Liverpool in September 2020.
The Premier League’s application of the system has been condemned by many in English football.
The former Bayern Munich midfielder is yet to show the Prem what he’s capable of after a difficult first season at Anfield.
Injury restricted Thiago to just 24 top flight appearances last term, although his form improved significantly during the run-in as Liverpool stormed to Champions League qualification.
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp was forced to defend the playmaker’s performances in February following criticism from fans and pundits.
Thaigo is part of Spain’s squad for Euro 2020 and played the final 25 minutes of his country’s 0-0 draw with Sweden.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
