EXCLUSIVE: Ledesma to cancel Santos contract, hits out at Lotito
His experience with the Brazilian side, by the way, is almost finished, as Ledesma himself reveals talking exclusively to calciomercato.com.
Hi Cristian, welcome back in Italy! Are you going to spend your holidays here?
“Hello! Yes, I am going to spend holidays here, with my family”
Talking about family, how’s life far from home? How are you feeling in Brazil?
“Let me tell you something: I don’t want to be back in Brazil. I’ve missed my family too much. I’ve spent three months there. I wanted to know the city, the country, but then I’ve seen that my family is too important for me. I wasn’t used to such a big change. When I was in Italy I’ve only played for two teams. I will cancel my contract with Santos. I have a clause in the contract that allows me to do so.”
Rumors suggest that Edi Reja wants you at Atalanta
“I am in good terms with the manager but Atalanta have lot of central midfielders already. I know Reja very well. I know he wants to have two player per role, so I don’t think Atalanta is a plausible option. By the way, we all know how unpredictable a transfer window can be, some players might leave in January….”
What about your former club Lazio? I have been the team’s captain for many years and now they’re going through a tough period.
“Lazio is a very difficult environment. It used to be easier before Lotito became president. The situation at the club is extremely complicated right now, but that’s only the result of what has been done in the past. Have you ever asked yourself why most of players don’t get along with Lotito? He is a very particular person. I hope that problems will be resolved soon and that human relationships inside the club will improve too.”
Why have you decided not to continue with Lazio?
“I’ve understand that I would have struggled with playing time. I’ve decided to leave creating no controversy, nor I’ve ever criticized anyone at the club. Playing on a regular basis is crucial for a footballer. The club took another decision at the time, but my relationship with fans has always been great.”
Were you in good terms with Pioli?
“He has made his choice, but he’s always been clear and honest with me, as I’ve been with him. I wanted to play but he had other plans. That’ normal, he’s the manager. I hope they’ll improve their results in the next games.”
What do you think about your former teammate Lucas Biglia?
“He is a great player, I can only admire him. There is no reason to talk bad about players who have been playing instead of me. I am happy for him and I am happy for the club because they have a great midfielder. You simply can’t discuss Biglia.”
Did Milan call you last summer?
“Not them, but other did. Too many, actually. I’ve forgot this part of my job as I’ve only played for Lecce and Lazio in 15 years. Let me tell you that this is the worst part of my job. Lot of people just make things up during negotiations.”
What about your Santos teammates Gabigol and Lucas Lima? They’ve been linked with some Serie A clubs, but are they ready for European football?
“They have a lot of talent, but football has changed a lot, both in Europe and in Brazil. Ten years ago there were some amazing talents there, now the league’s top scorer is former Milan player Ricardo Oliveira. With all due respect, he’s 36! There are some young and talented prospects who are still not ready for European football. Brazilian football is different, there’s less high-intensity and also Gabi and Lucas are probably still not ready.”
