By any account, it’s been a bad year for Andriy Shevchenko. One of the highest-rated players in the world less than a year ago, Sheva arrived at Chelsea last summer with huge expectations on his $60 million shoulders. Indeed, it must be hard after such a poor season to be constantly reminded of one’s astronomical price tag. Dumped by Jose Mourinho, hounded by the relentless British press and only tepidly received by Blues’ fans, the Ukrainian legend could be excused for wanting to return to Milan, the spiritual home where Shevchenko spent the best years of his career.
Milan executives, meanwhile, have made no secret of their desire to see him return home. “When it comes to Shevchenko our doors are not just ajar, they are wide open,” Milan President Silvio Berlusconi said last week. Vice President Adriano Galliani went so far as to say the club had reserved a spot on its roster in anticipation.
Despite repeated and weak-sounding claims to the contrary, the Ukrainian must be tempted, especially when you consider the rapid rise of the Rossoneri’s stock after their dominance of Manchester United in the Champions League semifinals. Indeed, the prospect of an attacking triumvirate of Shevchenko, Ronaldo and Kaka next season sounds mighty tempting. Meanwhile, the club invited he and his wife to attend the Champions League final in Athens.