He doesn’t have much time left to realise this dream
Dani Alves has pledged to play in the Premier League before retiring, claiming the league features the ‘most amazing football in the world’.
The PSG defender is now 35 years young, and has fallen behind Thomas Meunier in the pecking order at PSG. Not wanting to waste any more time sitting on the bench in his twilight years, Alves has hinted at a move to the Premier League.
“The idea that I might finish my career without going to the Premier League, it is not possible,” Alves told The Telegraph.
“For sure, this is the most amazing football in the world. First, because of the respect for the players from the fans, and then because of the passion on the pitch. If I can play, that would be perfect, but I will make it there one way or the other.”
Alves has previously been linked with a move to Manchester City, where he could reunite with Pep Guardiola having enjoyed a fruitful relationship with the coach at Barcelona.
But as Man City look to the future, signing a 35-year-old defender would not be in keeping with the club’s long-term vision.
Alves may therefore have to look elsewhere if he is to realise his dream of playing in England.
He has not yet played a match for PSG this season, so could push for a move in January, and would not be cup tied in European competition unless PSG boss Thomas Tuchel decides to give him a run out in the next round of group stage fixtures.
That seems unlikely, though, as their remaining fixtures comprise a home tie against Liverpool, and an away trip to Red Star Belgrade.
