To put his talent into perspective, a young Adel Taarabt was once compared to one of the greatest of all time by QPR manager Harry Redknapp after the Moroccon playmaker made an impressive start to life in the Premier League.
"He could play anywhere, he has got that much talent, it's just whether or not his head is right." said Redknapp in a press conference.
"When he came here they called him the next Zidane. He isn't in the same league as Zidane yet because he was a genius, but one day he could be up there because he's got that ability."
Harry was right. Taarabt's talent was undeniable. He possessed the ability to embarrass his opponent with a nutmeg or a stepover and genuinely looked like the finished article at times.
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But it was his inconsistency and attitude that held him back, especially during his time in England.
That being said, when he was playing well, Taarabt was, without doubt, one of the most exciting players in world football. I mean, just look back at his time with Queens Park Rangers.
Here's a compilation or two to remind you of his talent. He really was out of this world.
Taarabt eventually moved to Benfica on a permanent deal after spending time at Fulham and AC Milan on loan.
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Once known for his tricks and flicks, the Moroccan has since adapted his game to become a composed defensive midfielder.
Contributing massively to defensive and attacking phases for Portuguese side Benfica, the previously frustrating Taarabt is now producing dominant performances from deep, with his latest Man of the Match performance against Belenenses a testament to his new role.
It's hard to believe but, Taarabt is genuinely a superb deep-lying midfielder and he's a joy to watch.
Nobody has ever doubted Taarabt's natural ability but it finally looks like he has found his ideal position, spraying passes to the forward line while helping in defensive areas.
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The streets will never forget.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, Premier League, QPR
