Reviewing footage of Galaxy loanee Matheus Nacimento sparked impressions of Jogo Bonito—Rivaldo-like rhythm and balance, an outward expression of inner music. The ball hits the net regularly as if it must because the spell of the Beautiful Game compels it to do so. Goals are the natural outcome of everything that came before them.
Familiar with instinctual soccer from the wanderings of Riqui Puig, Vanney must make room for a center-forward who will range from sideline to sideline, drop into the midfield, dribble when the system calls for a pass, and pass at unexpected moments. Nascimento invites his teammates to join the dance, though the ball may not find its way to them.
What can be disruptive in the midfield third can be magical around the penalty box. At six foot one, Nacimento uses his length to accentuate his moves, rockets laser-like shots to all corners of the goal, pulls off Ronaldinho-like acrobatics in the six-yard box, and uses his speed to stretch the defense.
Given his slight frame, don’t expect a dominant aerial game. He may find the physicality of MLS to be a challenge. Hopefully, Juninho will help him to feel comfortable and understand how to integrate his instincts into the cerebral aspects of Vanney’s system. Most likely newly arrived Christian Ramirez will start the season up top.
It will be interesting to see how players like Diego Fagundez, Marco Reus, Edwin Cerrillo, and Joseph Paintsil connect with the young forward. Gabriel Pec and Julian Aude should be familiar with the style. Once again, Kuntz serves up a young, uniquely talented player for Vanney to develop into a star.
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