The last time Nottingham Forest supporters heard about Gustavo Scarpa was probably a long time ago.
After initially leaving the Reds on loan to Olympiacos in August, the midfield player was eventually sold to Atlético-MG in January for an estimated €5 million.
After winning his first title at the Brazilian club, he talked to TNT Sports about how it took him some time to adjust.
In the final of the Campeonato Mineiro, Atlético stunned their fierce rivals Cruzeiro, 3-1, last night. Scarpa ultimately found some closure after scoring their final goal.
That’s why he’s given many interviews in the past few hours, and ended up being asked about his time at Nottingham Forest. He said there are no bad feelings about his struggles there.
Regarding Europe, I believe there are numerous issues. To start with, I had no regrets about going there. Playing in the Premier League was my dream, and I would do it all over again. However, I believe that dreams exist in life, and you have to work toward making them come true in unexpected ways. I was able to realize my dream of playing in the Premier League, albeit it wasn’t what I had anticipated. I believe I got off to a good start before the coach decided to bench me. After that, I started to get a lot of injuries that I had never had before. I believe that mental factors also have an impact.
“My off-field experience was heavy in the months before I arrived in Europe. But I think that’s it. I had a very good experience. Professionally, it was bad in parts. I lost some of my confidence, which I took a long time to win back. I had left as the champion, the best player and everything. It was a great experience and, as I said, I would do it all over again. I don’t regret it. Now I’m happy with the first title.”
Scarpa joined Nottingham Forest in January 2023 as a free agent. He struggled with personal issues and injuries, and ended up having just ten appearances for the club.
Now at 30, it sounds unlikely he’d get another chance in Europe, but at least he seems happy in Brazil again, something which will be very much helped by this trophy win.
