Eagerly anticipating his return, Diego Pituca, the Santos midfielder, is on the countdown as the agreement with Kashima Antlers is two games to go. But how has his performance been at the Japanese side?
In simple terms, Pituca has become an indispensable figure in midfield, displaying adaptability in his position and assuming a pivotal role in orchestrating set-piece plays.
Since his trade to the Japanese club, Pituca has actively participated in a total of 107 matches, contributing across various competitions.
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Diego Pituca’s stats at Kashima Antlers
Despite the absence of championship titles, Pituca’s performance is distinguished by an impressive success rate of over 84% in ground passing. Notably, his role at Kashima has evolved to a more centralized position, engaging in both defensive and attacking maneuvers with finesse, particularly highlighting his left-handed prowess.
While individual statistics might seem modest, with three goals and one assist in 35 matches during 2023, Pituca’s significance transcends mere numbers. His role is a brick within the team’s tactical framework, where he takes command of set pieces, assuming responsibility for corners and free kicks on the fringes of the field.
【11/11 柏戦】#antlers
鹿島、同点！
87分、PKをピトゥが決めた！1-1！#ディエゴピトゥカ#DAZNhttps://t.co/T0pJU5y4ua pic.twitter.com/r8QBm87zsm
— 鹿島アントラーズ (@atlrs_official) November 11, 2023
Physically, Pituca is reported to be in exemplary condition in Asia, further affirming his commitment to peak performance. Despite his existing contract with Kashima extending until January, a return to Brazil is imminent on December 3rd, following the round up of the Japanese season. Post this hiatus, he is slated to report to Santos, gearing up for the commencement of the pre-season in 2024.
