FRISCO - In Argentina it is commonly said that the number 10 shirt is heavier than the others. It is believed to carry an added weight to it; a responsibility that no other number on the field has. For them, number ’10’ is meant to be worn only by the very best.
BMO Field will see its first match of 2016 MLS action this weekend after renovations. And what better way to kick things off than with two of the league’s best players -both wearing the heavier number 10 on their backs- on the field this Saturday.
If there’s two players in MLS that can wear the mythical number with pride it’s Mauro Diaz and Sebastian Giovinco. Positionally, the number ’10’ is usually worn by playmakers: players with good technique on the ball, and exceptional passing skills. A description that applies more to Diaz then to the Italian according to Oscar Pareja.
“Mauro’s game acts more like a director of the team,” said the FC Dallas head coach. “He glues people, he links a lot. Giovinco is more dangerous in the last 30 yards. He creates a lot of plays for himself and other ones too. Mauro is more of a linker, a more natural number ’10’.”
The Argentinian playmaker enjoys matching up against another player with the ’10’ on the back of his shirt, but also feels the Toronto FC star’s playing style is different to his.
“Truth is, it’s always nice to face players like him,” Diaz said. “But I think he plays further up the field. He is more of a backed up number nine. I try to have a more team-based playing style, to bring forwards in play. And Giovinco is more of a finisher than me.”
Playing differences aside, according to Oscar Pareja, having two players like Giovinco and Diaz in MLS is very important for the league.
“It’s great for the league because it changes the perception that the World has about us,” he explained. “They’re probably good examples, but there are many others. The league has other first-level players here competing. Giovinco is a good example of that, for sure.”
Even though stars like Giovinco and Diaz will be the focus point on Saturday, the former River Plate playmaker is aware that a win or loss this weekend can not be made without a team effort.
“Matches are won by eleven players.” Mauro said. “I’m really happy to be back on the pitch with my teammates. Hopefully this week we’ll show the best version of ourselves. If all eleven of us come out focused and do what we’re meant to do, I think we have a great chance of bringing three points back from Toronto.”