The Metamorphosis
After two years of playing for the Argentinian side, Boca Juniors and some knee-buckling performances in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Medel was acquired by Sevilla for just €3 Million. It turned out to be a smooth lil’ deal, as the Chilean immediately found his form there, playing as a defensive midfielder with the unique determination that characterises him – reminiscent of another Sevilla fan favourite, Christian Poulsen playing in his fearsome prime, but only better. The 15 yellow cards in 31 games he picked up in the 11/12 season were the only smudge in his much-vaunted campaign.
In just three seasons at Sevilla, his market value quadrupled and Premier League side Cardiff City had to pay Sevilla a cool sum of €13 Million to be able to enjoy his services. Despite showing more maturity both in terms of discipline (he only picked up 6 yellow cards in 35 matches) and a better understanding of the game, Medel’s hustle and bustle wasn’t enough to lead his side out of the heavy-handed mittens of relegation.
When Medel signed for Cardiff City in August 2013 from Spanish outfit Sevilla, for what remains a Bluebirds club record £11m, the Cigar-smoking Chilean came with a Coyote Ugly reputation. I mean, you are not nicknamed ‘El Pitbull’ if you spend your days sitting at home knitting sweaters, crocheting tea cosies and vacuuming under the sofa.
