Best in Brazil: Stunning Bernabei Stat Shows Extent of Loan Turnaround

The turnaround of Alexandro Bernabei since he left Celtic on loan for Internacional has been something to behold.

In Glasgow’s east end, the 24-year-old was an erratic full-back whose rash decision-making left much to desire. Next to no one could have predicted his rise to stardom in Brazil when he initially swapped Parkhead for Porto Alegre in March.

Bernabei has been a key player for Internacional in 2024. He is a consistent starter for his club in the league, where he has scored three goals and set up four in 19 appearances.

He has rapidly established himself as not just the best left-back in Brazil’s top flight but the best player in the country, according to stats provider SofaScore [X]. Indeed, since Bernabei made his Brazilian Serie A debut, no player in the league has conjured a higher average match rating than his 7.51.

It is no surprise that there have been suggestions of an Argentina call-up for the attack-minded full-back, who has thrived since returning to his home continent.

His loan is due to expire at the end of the calendar year, and it is no surprise that Internacional want to make the move permanent.

Celtic’s reported £8.3m asking price is fully warranted, given Bernabei’s contract status and performances over recent months. It remains to be seen whether his loan side will meet it, though, with other Brazilian sides sniffing about him, too.