Juve’s sharpshooting ‘Apache’ is a wanted man

CARLOS Tevez is wanted again by Argentina and Europe’s top clubs after four lean years in which he nearly gave up the game.

The 31-year-old, known as “Apache” after the Buenos Aires slum district where he was brought up, is back in the national side after a 20-goal season for Juventus, who pushed Barcelona to the limit in the Champions League final.

Tevez goes into the Copa America having reportedly demanded a transfer from the Italian side. Talks were held with Atletico Madrid, while British media say Liverpool are keen.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said that Tevez has had an extraordinary season. “He has the game in his blood,” according to Atletico coach Diego Simeone.

Tevez’s brilliance was never doubted as he moved from Boca Juniors in Buenos Aires to Corinthians in Brazil and then in 2006 to West Ham, Manchester United and in 2009 to Manchester City for more than £40-million (R770-million).

The trouble started four years ago, when he allegedly refused to come on as a substitute for City in a Champions League game against Bayern Munich.

After five months on the sidelines and a heavy fine, Tevez returned to the first team, but was back in trouble after telling Argentinian television that coach Roberto Mancini had treated him like a dog.

Tevez was also excluded from national duty for three years – including the 2014 World Cup – after Alejandro Sabella took over as Argentina coach in 2011.

Sergio Aguero was chosen to partner Lionel Messi.

That was when Tevez considered quitting football, he said later.

Gerardo Martino took over last year though and had no qualms about bringing Tevez back after the World Cup, saying he was worthy as he had been one of the best three players in the Italian league for the past two seasons. — AFP