Dimitri Payet’s move from Marseille to Brazil last summer was viewed as unexpected.
The offensive midfielder abruptly left the French side, and after considering his alternatives, he decided to sign with Vasco da Gama on a two-year contract.
Payet may not have joined the most powerful team in South America, but he is playing in a massive stadium that reminds him of West Ham United. The footballer explained this in an interview with L’Equipe.
“I enjoy this Championship. It’s fantastic, and the crowds are incredible. Experiencing this chaos in football world is a blast! I adored the Maracana for its history and what it represents. I also enjoy Sao Januario; it’s a genuine cauldron. It reminds me of West Ham, where no one came to beat us. If our fans are like that when we strive to remain up, I can’t image playing in the Brazilian Cup final. “It must be crazy.”
Then, in another indication of how much he valued the atmosphere at West Ham, he said: “I have always chosen my clubs based on their stadiums. They must be full and have a certain atmosphere. I require this passion. If I hadn’t had that, I’d have died slowly. I enjoy it when supporters make demands.”
Vasco’s cup match versus Água Santa on Wednesday afternoon was hectic. The game featured 17 yellow cards and three red cards. After a 3-3 draw that included a late equaliser, the home team triumphed on penalties.
As Payet approached to take the first penalty, it was a bizarre scene; a West Ham icon and someone
The environment at São Januario speaks for itself, and Payet has every right to be satisfied with his current situation.
Just as he was at West Ham… Until he wasn’t!
