Kenedy started for the Blues against the Spanish giants and didn’t look out of place any time in the game. And to think he’s still on a trial with the club makes it much more impressive from the South American.
Chelsea will look at adding to their Brazilian contingent as they look to sign the 19-year-old midfielder. And the youngster didn’t disappoint the supporters by putting an impressive display against Barcelona.
His current club Fluminese has given permission to Kenedy to join Chelsea on tour. Jose Mourinho wanted to see how he would fare in match scenario and slotted him straight into the starting XI for the game against Barcelona.
Whatever apprehensions anyone would have about his style of play and adaptability were dispelled as soon as the game started. Kenedy is left footed but plays on the right. He looked extremely quick getting forward and showed admirable technique for a young man.
What’s also admirable is how impressively he tracked back – something which Jose Mourinho always looks for in a player. Outmuscling Luis Suarez off the ball early in the game showed that he’s ready to be physically involved too. That’s not the only challenge because he looked eager to get into a tussle; so long as it is within limits, Mourinho would love every bit of it.
Does this mean the Brazilian will be the toast of Stamford Bridge this new season? May not be! The club hasn’t yet signed him – they have an option to sign him for £6.3 million. Even if he’s signed, the new FA work permit criteria may prevent him turning up for the Blues.
He’s yet to make his full debut for the Brazilian national side despite having played for the Under-17 and Under-20 sides. Even in the case of Kenedy being signed, the only prospect that seems plausible at the moment is a loan spell at Vitesse Arnhem.
Whatever is the outcome, Kenedy looks set to be the next big Brazilian thing at Chelsea!
