Although the signing of Luis Suárez was welcomed by the majority of Barcelona fans, many also threw up their hands when they found out he had cost over €81 million. However, more than six months later there is no doubt the Uruguayan was worth every penny and all the supporters are more than satisfied with his performances.
Statistically speaking, Suárez has been sensational. This is particularly the case if you take into account the rustiness he suffered initially because of his time out of action and his teething problems – no pun intended – as he adjusted to the team’s style of play and established a rapport with his new teammates. In the last two months, since he bagged a brace against Manchester City on 24th February, he has averaged a goal a game.
However, Suárez is not only showing that he is a prolific striker of the highest order, but is further paying back the money invested in him by coming up with big goals against top-class opposition. After all, it is effectiveness against the elite or in crunch matches that tends to stick in fans’ memories. The former Liverpool star has certainly come up trumps in this respect.
Suárez went a long way towards putting the Camp Nou faithful in his pocket when he did what is asked of all forwards who join Barça: sink Real Madrid. The Uruguayan’s winner against the old enemy back on 22nd March ensured iconic status.
On top of that, the 28-year-old has sparkled in the Champions League. Having made the difference at the Etihad, last week he delivered another deadly double in an away leg, with PSG the victims this time round.
Suárez has also been decisive in La Liga. He was outstanding in the win over Atlético at the Camp Nou, a game that could yet prove pivotal in determining the fate of the title. On a similar note, his strike in this past Saturday’s victory over Valencia effectively secured three points in an encounter in which Barcelona could not afford to slip up.
SOURCE: marca.com