Arthur Sales' Brazilian blueprint: The players shaping his game

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Mamelodi Sundowns striker Arthur Sales has named the Brazilian stars he models his game after and tries to emulate on the pitch.

Sales, a promising young striker from Brazil, joined Sundowns ahead of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, signing a substantial four-year contract.

The 22-year-old arrived in SA from Belgian club Lommel SK, bolstering the Tshwane giants’ attacking options for competitions such as the CAF Champions League and the league.

However, Sales faces stiff competition for a starting spot, with the likes of Namibian international Peter Shalulile and Bafana Bafana striker Iqraam Rayners also vying for a place in the Sundowns’ forward line.

Despite his potential, Sales has yet to fully establish himself at Chloorkop. In eight appearances across all competitions, he is still searching for his first goal, though he has contributed two assists.

As the season progresses, Sales will look to make a significant impact for the South African champions by challenging himself like Paulo Ganso of Fluminense FC and Neymar Jr of Al Hilal FC.

ARTHUR SALES SAYS HE’S EMULATING PAULO GANSO AND NEYMAR JR’S GAME

Neymar Jr during Al Hilal FC match in the Saudi Pro League. Picture courtesy of Al Hilal FC

The goal poacher states he is modelling his game after his compatriots: Paulo Ganso of Fluminense FC and Neymar Jr of Al Hilal FC.

Ganso and Neymar both naturally play as attacking midfielders but are capable of playing as strikers as well. In contrast, Sales is a natural striker, though he can also be deployed as an attacking midfielder.

In the current season, Ganso has scored four goals and provided nine assists in 48 appearances across all competitions. Meanwhile, Neymar has only played twice this season due to a lengthy injury setback.

“I look up to players like Paulo Ganso and Neymar Jr. Their skill, creativity and ability to influence games inspire me,” Sales told Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine.

“I strive to incorporate elements of their play into my own game, aiming to bring that flair and excitement to the pitch here at Sundowns.”