The Argentine international was wanted by Barcelona before he made the grade at River Plate.
Erik Lamela scores the first goal for Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur playmaker Erik Lamela has commented on nearly joining Barcelona when he was younger, whilst on international duty with Argentina.
The Argentine attacker has become a pivotal player at White Hart Lane despite his initial struggles to make himself a hit in North London.
Tottenham’s Erik Lamela in action
Lamela was something of a protégé when he first came through the ranks at former club River Plate.
Speaking to La Pagina Millonaria he revealed how, as a teenager, he could have headed to Barcelona.
However, he decided to first make an impact with his beloved River Plate first-team, before making a move to Europe.
He stated:
“Obviously yes, I decided to stay in River because I wanted to play in the first-team at River and I could fulfil that dream.
“I always felt that people here loved me. Obviously there is always someone who does not like you as a player, it happens everywhere. But the people of River always supported me and treated me the best way.”
Tottenham’s Erik Lamela in action with Sunderland’s Jan Kirchhoff
In the end he waited until he had made an impact at River, although could not help the club escape what was an extraordinary relegation from the Argentine top-flight in 2011.
He moved to Roma that summer and became an instant hit in Italy.
Nou Camp Barcelona
Lamela certainly had all the skill at a young age to attract the attention of Barcelona’s famous youth system. Now, he is showing that skill at White Hart Lane.
After early struggles he has now settled at the club and is an integral member of the first-team.
Tottenham fans are certainly glad he is theirs and not the Blaugrana.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
