Former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez had a dream debut for Gremio last night.
The 35-year-old featured for his new club for the very first time, as they took on Sao Luiz in the Recopa Gaucha – the Community Shield-esque season opener.
And Suarez didn’t take long to delight his new fans. The Uruguayan gave Gremio the lead after just five minutes, executing a delightful little lob over the goalkeeper.
25-minutes later, he had another. Running through one-on-one with the ‘keeper, Suarez gave him the eyes before slotting into the bottom corner.
Then, after just 38 minutes, the former Liverpool hero had his hat-trick. Picking up a headed clearance on the far side of the box, El Pistolero fired in a first-time volley to put his side 3-0 up.
Gremio ran out 4-1 winners, with Suarez the undoubted Man of the Match. He’s still got it!
Europe’s loss is Brazil’s gain
We know it’s a lower level playing in Brazil, but this shows what Luis can still offer. It really is a shame that we won’t see him playing in Europe anymore.
Still, Europe’s loss is Brazil’s gain. As he looks to close out his epic career in style, the Brasileirao will be a better place for having Suarez involved.
Some years may have passed, but he’s still the ‘unbelievable’ player that former teammate Jose Enrique once described [The Guardian].
And who knows, keep on turning in displays like this, and perhaps Europe will come calling again.
As we’ve seen recently with the likes of Diego Costa at Wolves, there’s still room for a wizened old veteran in the Premier League.
If Costa can do it, then Suarez certainly can. Show them what you’ve got, Luis!