Gabriel Barbosa has been granted relief from a torrid start to life in Europe, with Santos announcing he has returned to the club on a year-long loan from Inter.
The Serie A side shelled out a reported €25million to sign the Brazil international in August 2016, but he made just 10 appearances in all competitions – his only start coming in the Coppa Italia – and scored one goal in his debut season.
A loan to Benfica was not successful in securing greater playing time, with Gabriel getting just four outings for the Portuguese giants and he has gone full circle with a return to Brazil.
“It happened very quickly. It was a time for me to learn. I am very happy to come back and wear this shirt,” he said in a statement issued by Santos.
Bem-vindo de novo, @gabigol! #ÉDoPeixe #EternoMeninoDaVila pic.twitter.com/jVhKtlglQT
— Santos Futebol Clube (@SantosFC) January 25, 2018
“They knew how much I wanted to come back here. Everything is in place for it to go right. I return very different; more mature and with more experience.”
During his first spell at Santos, Gabriel scored 57 goals in 157 appearances and won the Campeonato Paulista on two occasions.
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SoccerNews
Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.
You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.