Werder Bremen have dashed the Olympic hopes of Brazilian playmaker Diego, telling the 23-year-old they will not release him, thus depriving the Games of one of the world’s most exciting young players.
Werder sporting director Klaus Allofs said there was no legal reason for clubs to release their players because, he said, the Olympics are not part of world soccer’s governing body, FIFA.
“So I’m not expecting any reaction from FIFA,” Allofs said.
Just last week FIFA said that even though clubs are not obliged to release overage players they must release any players younger than 23. Diego turned 23 on Feb. 28 and he was nominated for Brazil’s Olympic team on July 8 by coach Dunga.
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Diego got his first cap for Brazil in April 2003 as a 19-year-old, so how are Werder getting away with this? Why will Diego be spending August training with his club on Germany’s North Sea island of Nordeney instead of playing for Brazil in China?
Werder released a statement from Diego saying that, “The Olympics are my dream. But Werder don’t want to release me. I’ll respect that. I don’t want to cause any problems.”
But Bild reported on Tuesday that Diego has not given up yet. “I don’t know yet what I’ll do. I’ll wait to see what FIFA decides,” he was quoted as saying.
AC Milan have stopped Kaka from going and Barcelona said Brazilian compatriot Ronaldinho could not attend. Ronaldinho has just moved to Milan from Barca so all eyes are on the Italian club, wondering what they'll decide.
Is it time FIFA made a definitive ruling?
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about 1 month ago
Milan have agreed to let Ronaldinho go. Although they stated that if he had not been a new signing, he would not have been released.
As for Diego, it's absurd that he will not be present at the Olympics. He is one of the best young players in the world and Werder Bremen should recognize an opportunity for a young player of his caliber.
FIFA must intervene. If not now, soon.
from about 1 month ago
Thanks for the comment Diego I agree.
about 1 month ago
he might get injured at the world cup i think they are worried about their investment. it is a boardroom decision more than a coaching one.
about 1 month ago
Sadly....... they`ve stolen the sport. I believe it`s the title of a book about FIFA.
It`s not about football or the fans anymore.
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