The Juventus midfielder was linked with a sensational switch to Celtic.
It would not be too much of an assumption to suggest that Hernanes probably regrets deciding to remain true to Juventus beyond January. Especially after Calciomercato reported that both Celtic and Serie A rivals Genoa were considering offering the Brazilian international a lifeline.
The 31-year-old has started just eight times in the Italian top flight this season while his albeit short career in black and white has largely been accompanied by a soundtrack of whistles and disapproving boos from his very own ‘support’.
It is fair to say the exhilarating play-maker loved at Lazio has not discovered the same level of affection at the Bianconeri.
And Hernanes’s agent has now confirmed to Corriere Dello Sport that there is a very real possibility that he could up become the latest big name to swap Europe’s competitive sport for China’s rather substantial pay packets. Being left out of Juve’s Champions League squad appears a final parting shot.
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Therefore, it is tempting to wonder how different his fortunes would have been had the speculation concerning a dramatic move to Celtic turned into something more tangible.
Boos, whistles or even the odd disapproving banner would not even register as a concern at Parkhead, a ground where supporters ‘support’. And Juve’s forgotten man could have thrived as the diamond in Celtic’s squad, the creative kingpin and by far the most gifted midfielder the Scottish game has witnessed in many a year.
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With Brendan Rodgers attempting to turn Celtic into a Champions League force, Hernanes’s European experience would have been nothing short of vital. Instead, his career is at a crossroads with China appearing his most likely destination.
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