The two players have graced the Argentinian side with calmness and class in Mascherano, and guile and skill from Tevez.
Much has been said about the transfer. The fact that it was unprecedented, the fact that it led to ‘explanatory' talk about a club takeover, and also the longevity of the players stay at the club. What, surprisingly, has not been called into question, is the effect that these players will bring to the side.
Their talent is undoubted. With both at just 22 years of age, they have had an extraordinary level of success. Both are established members of the one of the best footballing nations in the world, they have both one a competitive league at the top level, not to mention the income they have received from the investors MSI. Tevez himself was even a cult hero at former club Corinthians, captaining the side to its domestic dominance.
However, events preceding their transfer are less memorable. Tevez in particular, refused to play for the club who struggled in his absence, fighting a relegation battle, an all too familiar event of player power. Seemingly, this seemed like an attempt to secure a move to either Manchester or Chelsea. If the bigger teams come calling again, would the move prove too tempting? Obviously there are other factors involved, namely the less secure status of Brazilian league football is not an ideal situation to live in.
Secondly, what will happen if Tevez just walks into the starting lineup? While it is clear he is different class, Zamora, Harewood and Ashton have been magnificent thus far, giving 100% for the club that they adore. Even Carlton Cole, off to a flying start against Charlton, must be cursing his luck as if it would not be hard enough to dislode the former strikers from the first eleven. If Tevez moves into the starting lineup, it may persuade one or two of the clubs big strikers to move on in order to play first team football, and if Tevez does indeed leave the club, then we would have lost some important players without replacements.
Thirdly, nobody seems to have questioned their form in the Premiership. I am not saying that they cannot play, because their records are fantastic. But then so was Juan Sebastien Veron's record in Serie A, one of the best leagues in the world, before he was a bit player at Man Utd. Jorge Borgetti, another prolific South American striker, was often on the bench for Bolton last season, and lets not forget Juan Pablo Angel, a shadow of the free scoring player he was for River Plate and Columbia. Tevez has only played South American football for club and country, so it will be difficult for him to adapt.
On the other hand, Tevez seems to be built for the league. Strong, pacey and determined, he has the potential to no doubt be a Hammers favourite, providing he keeps his aggression in check and stays fit. I have no doubts whatsoever that Mascherano will be a tremendous player for the club. For a player of just 22 years of age he has an incredible level of maturity in his ability to control a game at club and international level, much in the mould of old favourite Michael Carrick.
One things for sure, whichever strikers will play in forthcoming Hammer's matches, defences will not relish playing against their pace and strength, and seeing the names of two of Argentina's biggest stars on the teamsheet would worry any opposing manager.
Article Written by Greg Pittard.