Arsenal Loanee Nuno Tavares has endured several misfortunes while playing in the Premier League with Arsenal. Tavares, on loan at Lazio, burst into tears after he was injured again during the Bodo/Glimt versus Lazio Europa League defeat.
Arriving from Benfica in 2021 on a £8 million deal, Tavares has struggled to keep either his fitness or form at Arsenal. The player has gone on loan to several clubs during his career. After his time at Marseille and Nottingham Forest, joining Lazio gave the impression he could make a new beginning. Unfortunately, a series of injuries has made it hard for him to improve.
Bright Start Turned Bitter For Former Arsenal Man
Arriving at the Stadio Olimpico, there was a lot of optimism that Tavares could save his career. Because of his speed, offensive sense, and great crosses, he was a key player on the left wing. Baroni made sure Tavares felt at home in the team and the Portugal international quickly began playing a major role.
Even though he played well at first, Tavares started to have trouble with injuries. During the season, he missed fifteen games thanks to five separate injuries. His comebacks were charged with hope, but they were always followed by more bad news. The last time he was injured was in Lazio’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Bodo/Glimt.
A Season of What Could Have Been For Arsenal Loanee
Tavares has experienced a lot of highs and lows this season. He has proven capable on the pitch, as Arsenal first intended, but injuries have stopped him from truly progressing. This setback happens as Tavares faces increased doubt over his role at Arsenal.
Given that Calafiori is the left-back and Kiwior is the left centre-back, it looks hard for Tavares to play regularly at the Emirates. If Tavares returns to Arsenal healthy, he probably won’t be a big part of Arteta’s plans.
Lazio’s Europa League Exit Adds to the Pain
Lazio’s hopes of success in the Europa League ended badly, making things harder for Tavares and his teammates. Eleven minutes after the game went to extra time, Boulaye Dia put the Italians in front. Still, Bodo/Glimt were not done yet and got the equaliser with only 11 minutes left to play. It ended up going to a penalty shootout, where Lazio’s chance to play in Europe next year was taken away.
With the season almost over, there is a lot of uncertainty about what lies ahead for Arsenal loanee Nuno Tavares. Lazio are said to have put the brakes on a permanent deal for Tavares because of his history of injuries, despite his good moments. A move back to Arsenal might lead to Tavares going out on loan once again or getting sold permanently if someone wants to buy.
What’s Next for Tavares?
Nuno Tavares will now pay attention to his recovery, but it is obvious that the constant injuries have taken an emotional toll. Tavares’ story is a warning that even the most talented players can face big setbacks outside their power. What he did at Lazio makes it plain that he has real skill and creativity. But the ongoing injuries and the stress they bring have greatly slowed his progress.
Player’s tipped to be Arsenal’s future at left-back have rarely had a harder time than Tavares in recent seasons. The support of his teammates, staff, and fans will help Tavares try to move forward from his current difficulty. If he returns to Arsenal, stays at Lazio, or moves elsewhere, one thing is plain: He’ll have to recover mentally as well as physically to move forward in his career.
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