ESTUDIANTES LEGEND JUAN Sebastian Veron made his long-awaited return to professional football on Sunday as he featured against Bahia in the Florida Cup.
The ex-Lazio, Manchester United and Chelsea man, 41, had been out of the game for almost three years since hanging up his boots in 2014, during which time he was elected president of the La Plata club.
But after making a promise to return to the field should the Pincha sell enough boxes at their soon-to-be-completed new stadium, he was true to his word to feature in a 1-0 win over the Brazilian team.
Veron played the entire first half for the Argentines, who prevailed thanks to an own goal from Tinga.
The midfielder was then replaced at half time by Rodrigo Brana, as coach Nelson Vivas rotated his troops in the friendly tournament.
While La Bruja did not have the whole game to shine, there was plenty on offer for Estudiantes fans to enjoy as he sprayed the ball around in typically majestic style.
Veron also took control of the Pincha’s set-pieces, with his deliveries keeping Bahia on the back foot.
Estudiantes will be hoping the years haven’t taken their toll on the veteran of the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, as they fight for silverware on two fronts during 2017.
The club currently lie fourth in the Primera Division after 14 games, four points shy of leaders Boca Juniors, while they will also fight for the Copa Libertadores over the course of the year.
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