MyBeanyman interviewed the Austrian from his new dig in China, where he underwhelmed at first before growing into the role to score 14 goals in 23 appearances.
Not Good
Part of that reason, said the former West Ham striker, was his lack of application and a lack of appreciation for the league he was going into.
He said:”I underestimated it. I didn’t train. I didn’t look after my body. I was eating. I was drinking fizzy drinks - Sprite, Coca Cola, Fanta - all these sugar drinks that are not good for the body.”
Reputation
Marko Arnautovic has always had that reputation. Even as far back as his Inter Milan days, where he played just three games on loan, there are stories of him strutting about in that trademark maverick way.
That is something the Austrian has always struggled to shift. He’s a forward who occupies the limelight despite a tangible lack of career success. He’s had a good one, there’s no doubt, playing for teams in Austria, the Netherlands, Germany and England - but he’s never managed to play for a top side.
He’s scored goals in the Eredivisie, Premier League, Bundesliga and Super League but has never played a single minute of European football. He’s never played in the Champions League or the Europa League, despite being good enough to pick up 85 caps for Austria.
Loved or Hated?
Wherever he’s gone, this man has divided opinion. Stoke City fans loved him and then hated him when he moved to West Ham - 22 goals and 12 assists later he had mud slung at him again when the forward got his move to China.
It was six months later than he wanted, and 20 million less than they would have received in the summer, but after the constant sniping and disagreements with everyone at the club they probably felt like it was good riddance.
Which brings is back to the video. A high-paid striker turns up in China, doesn’t take it seriously and his performances suffer. If it was going to be anyone, it would be Arnautovic.