So after the Zenden deal is almost perfect and Overmars is more than likely to play for Barça next season, I'm wondering if this deal makes ANY kind of sense.
Zenden was together with Kluivert and Bergkamp obviously Hollands best player at Euro 2000, together with Nedved he should be considered as the best left-sided player at Euro 2000! Speaking for Barcelona in 1999/2000, Zenden had great performances whereever he had to play (left wing, left back, half left offensive midfield), and he never complained when he had to sit on the bench. And you always have to remember: This guy is just 23, so his best years are still to come!
So, WHAT was the reason to sell such a classy player for just $12 million? This transfer fee is RIDICULOUS! In times where clubs spend $44 million for two average Italian players (Stefano Fiore and Giuliano Giannichedda to SS Lazio), Barça sells a top class left wing for $12 million? I can't believe it!!!
And who do we get as replacement? Marc Overmars! Don't get me wrong, he is not a bad player, but he completely failed to impress in the first Dutch Euro 2000 game against the Czechs when playing on the left side, and only showed average football in the following games; Zenden played way better!
Zenden is as quick as Overmars but has great crossing qualities, Overmars doesn't have! And: Zenden is by far more flexible; you could use Zenden (as I've described above) on the left wing, and he can play as left back and at central midfield! Overmars can only play on the wing!
So, can somebody tell me: WHY?????