The likes of Erling Braut Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Andre Silva are gaining all the plaudits right now across Europe for their tremendous goal-scoring exploits in recent weeks.

These are the next generation of top calibre strikers aiming to write their name amongst the best in the world, and while those are three of the most notable in-form strikers across the whole of Europe, there’s still quite a few forwards quietly going about their business under the radar and also trying to grab the same levels of acclaim for the throne.

One of those forwards who deserves to be spoken in the same bracket right now, arguably becoming the sole goal-scoring threat for his club is the supremely gifted and exciting young French striker Amine Gouiri. The former Lyon academy graduate, currently plying his trade at mid-table French outfit Nice is enjoying a sparkling remarkable breakthrough season scoring 15 goals and laying on 6 assists in all competitions.

The 21-year-old is the one true spark in an otherwise bleak Nice attack, making a name for himself while his French counterpart Kylian Mbappe is gaining all the plaudits. Amine Gouiri is yet another French hope for the future, a uniquely gifted forward who’s talents and abilities deserves much more plaudits than he’s getting.

It takes a lot of bottle and courage to leave a club as decorated as Lyon and join a club still trying to find their purpose within France’s top division. There was a need from Gouiri to try and find his own purpose, to go on and get the game time his talents warrant and crave. Despite Nice’s struggles this season, Gouiri is the one thing out of that club inspiring hope within its fanbase.

Facing competition from the likes of Memphis Depay, Karl-Toko Ekambi, fellow young superstar Rayan Cherki and the departed Moussa Dembélé, Gouiri never really got a look in at Lyon. 

He amassed just 10 substitute appearances for the club he’d called home for the best part of a decade, and decided he deserved better. Gouiri found refuge at Adrian Ursea’s Nice, and since his arrival for €7 million at the Allianz Riviera it’s fair to say those who criticized his risky move have been truly silenced.

So how has Gouiri gotten to this stage of his career, how is he pulling up trees at Allianz Riviera and what does the future hold for this terrific young superstar?

Who is Amine Gouiri?

Born and raised in Bourgoin-Jallieu, France. Gouiri joined the Lyon academy at a pretty late age of 13. He signed his first professional contract at the club once he turned 17 for three years.

An internationally renowned prospect at the time, he made the Lyon first team bench at the age of just 16 without appearing but he however did enjoy a steady and progressive rid in the Lyon B team scoring 14 goals in 33 appearances.

Gouiri went on to make his first team bow in November 2017, in a 0-0 home draw against Montpellier in Ligue 1, coming for the final 15 minutes replacing Tanguy Ndombele.

Despite also impressing in front of goal in the UEFA Youth League this term, scoring four goals in three games for Lyon, and delivering some impressive goalscoring performances at international youth level, scoring five in six appearances for the France U20s, Gouiri didn’t get many first-team minutes at Lyon, making just five appearances in all competitions for the club during the 2019/20 campaign. 

Gouiri took the onus upon himself to further his development elsewhere, and Nice came calling for his services, he duly obliged. On 1 July 2020, Gouiri joined the club signing a four-year contract for for a fee of around €7 million. Almost a year on, and Gouiri has not looked back, catapulting himself to become of the league’s most deadliest forwards and arguably its finest young prodigy.

The 21-year old has also made a name for himself at youth international level, he’s appeared for every France youth level and is currently also bagging the goals for the Under-21s too. It surely won’t be long before he’s rewarded for a first international cap for the French first team. If he carries on at the rate he’s under, he may even earn a surprise call-up for the Euros taking place this summer.

What’s all the hype surrounding Amine Gouiri? What’s his style of play?

Amine Gouiri has lined-up in various positions for Nice this season under the tutelage of previous manager Patrick Vieira – sacked in December – and current manager Adrian Ursea. At right-wing, left-wing, behind striker and even had a spell in central midfield but its up front where his superb abilities come to the fore.

However, he isn’t your average striker, a Erling Haaland or Adrien Silva per say, he’s more a Roberto Firmino type player but one who consistently finds the net when the opportunity arises. He’s joint seventh in the Ligue 1 goal-scoring charts with 11 goals and has also registered six assists meaning he’s an all-round forward capable of creating goals just as he is scoring them.

Amine Gouiri this season, has propelled himself in becoming the complete footballer. A player blessed with tremendous skill, a lovely first touch and a determination and bravery in his game that is almost unmatched amongst his peers. You want your strikers, however role they are tasked in fulfilling to score goals and Gouiri has done what is asked with such fine maturity and at a devastating rate.

🇫🇷 @aminegouiri's last six matches for @ogcnice:

🆚 Nimes ⚽
🆚 Rennes ⚽🅰️
🆚 Metz ⚽
🆚 Marseille ⚽🅰️
🆚 PSG ❌
🆚 Angers ⚽

🔥 Not bad for a 21-year-old… pic.twitter.com/TNHte40Puu

— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) March 4, 2021

Blessed with a combination of pace and power that any forward in world football would envy, Gouiri is a predator in the box, and he finds space as if a seasoned veteran. If you need any indication as to his unique talents, you’d only need to check his goal against Nimes, a true beauty. A superb first touch to take himself inside the last defender from a Morgan Schneiderlin long ball, eliminating the defender out of the game before clinically rolling the ball past the Nimes goalkeeper.

In his last six games for Nice, he’s registered 5 goals and 2 assists. Simply stunning.

What makes Gouiri so effective in this Nice side is the freedom at which he is given to express himself.

The goal against Nimes came about because of his great understanding when coming off the left-hand side. As a right-footed player deployed on the left, Gouiri is extremely effective at cutting inside and even delivering a wicked cross.

For a perfect example, see his assist for Dante’s goal away to Montpellier, or opting for a curling effort into the far corner; he’s found his trademark at just 21. Not only is Gouiri Nice’s top scorer, he’s also their top creator, with five Ligue 1 assists. The attack doesn’t exist without him; take him out of the equation and they’d cease to become effective.

Because of his expert talent in front of goal, Gouiri’s xG (expected goals) stands at 12.4 in Ligue 1, a stat he is well on his way to matching and beating considering he continues his wonderful run in front of goal. He’s most notably surpassed his xA (expected assists) of 3.0 with 5 assists in Ligue 1. He’s a cultured creator, albeit through a dribble past his marker or a fine pass or cross. Gouiri averages 3.69 shot-creating actions per 90 which is an offensive action that leads to a shot. He also averages 1.27 key passes per90. He possesses a tremendous understanding of the role he is tasked to play.

When its up front, he often comes deep to receive the ball dragging his marker out of position, which is of course what a customary false-9 should do. Not only that, but he’s excellent qualities when in possession of the ball is such a unique skill-set especially for the role he plays. It’s also important to note that Nice’s forward players are offered the freedom to swap positions so Gouiri will ideally come inside the left in order to be an effective presence. However, most of Nice’s chances are provided through Gouiri. Either he’s involved or there are no chances at all.

This tells us a lot about the kind of player that the 21-year-old Frenchman is. He isn’t the type of player who only becomes visible inside the final third, rather, Gouiri is active off the ball in the early stages of his team’s attacks and can be seen making an effort to aid his team during the build-up by offering his movement and ball-progressing qualities to help his team to advance up the pitch.

During Nice’s build-up, Gouiri likes to occupy this type of position between the opposition’s defensive and midfield lines. If a teammate can find him in between the lines, either in a central position or in the half-space, then the attacker can provide a significant threat to the opposition because of his ability on the ball. His intelligent movement, however, plays an important role in helping his team to progress into much more dangerous positions in the final third.

His dribble success rate reads at 50% from 3.19 attempts per 90 minutes, it may seem low for a player of his qualities but rather it shows the bravery and courage at which he operates. He isn’t afraid to try something audacious or out of the ordinary, he still completes 2 dribbles per 90 minutes. While this is something he will certainly improve on in future, the role he is given at Nice allows him to express himself and that is reflected in his 21 goal contributions at the time of writing.

With four goals in the Europa League, Gouiri has shown he can perform on the European stage, and his tally of 21 goals and assists (G/A) in all competitions holds up extremely well in comparison to other wide forwards across Europe. Players like Sadio Mané has 18 G/A, Harvey Barnes has 17, Raheem Sterling has 21, Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sané have 27 combined and Jadon Sancho has 28; whilst Gouiri is fulfilling different roles, this is equally as impressive. Gouiri’s numbers in comparison to some of his counterparts are exceptional.

It shows that he has to be spoken about in the same bracket as those who receive them week in, week out. Gouiri registers more key passes (1.4) than Kylian Mbappe (1.2). And while many may argue that he mustn’t be placed on a similar pedestal, this is of course his first full season playing professional football, so his number must also be highly regarded.

Amine Gouiri’s forecast for the future?

If rumours are believed to be true, Gouiri is already on the radar of many top clubs around Europe. Liverpool, are rumoured to be holding a particular interest in Gouiri as they seek to find a replacement for the declining Roberto Firmino, according to The Athletic.

While its certainly an indication of how far he’s come so far this season, its important Gouiri keeps firmly on the ground. This is his first full year playing professional football, a move to a club Liverpool with much increasing pressure to perform, especially after their poor title defence this season may not be ideal for Gouiri’s development. Staying and furthering his game at Nice for a year or two will of course do his career some good, despite the club’s struggles this campaign.

Gouiri is still only 21. Many players his age, jump at the chance to move onto the next level without considering the potential ramifications it may bring. The French under-21 international must not become a victim of that. This is a tremendously talented forward, one who is of course going to achieve greatness in future, that’s why these early years are so key, for any footballer.

When Kai Havertz left Germany for Chelsea last summer, many of the Bayer Leverkusen faithful will have been forgiven for doubting where the club will be heading in the future. A club that holds aspirations to become a top four regular in the German Bundesliga and an underdog feature in the Champions League every year, can’t be letting one of their prized assets leave every single time a bigger club comes calling.

However, its a deal that had to happen, not just for the financial benefits – a staggering €85m us bonuses sale – but because Leverkusen are a club that is traditionally built around its promising youth academy setup and a club who always seem to recruit very well in response to a big sale, allowing fans the luxury of having a greater optimism than before the departure of a star player.

Additionally, as has been the case with most top German teams over the years, the departure of one top talent is made up for by the arrival of yet another highly-rated young player making the step up to the senior side. Borussia Dortmund have become something of an expert at this, with a glut of extremely promising young players at their disposal at the moment, and Die Werkself are not too far behind that model.

Havertz had to depart, to make way for yet another promising young starlet, and arguably the Bundesliga’s most promising teenager, a player in the mould of 17-year-old German Florian Wirtz.

A player who has already broken a few age-based records in the Bundesliga, becoming Leverkusen’s youngest ever player when he made his debut against Werder Bremen in May 2020 and also became the youngest ever goal-scorer in the Bundesliga history when he netted against Bayern Munich in June 2020, although that record has since been broken by Borussia Dortmund’s very own wonderkid Youssoufa Moukoko in December.

Florian Wirtz has already drawn notable comparisons to his predecessor often dubbed ‘the new Havertz’, and although these comparisons are premature seeing as he only made his debut under a year go, he has already managed to secure a regular place in Leverkusen’s impressive team. It’s no mean feat for a player still in his tender years at 17, but Wirtz has been a revelation since his debut, deserving the rapturous acclaim he’s currently received.

This scout report will detail Wirtz’ come up through the ranks, his player profile, how he fits in in Peter Bosz’ system and what the future holds for this incredibly gifted teenager.

Who is Florian Wirtz?

Born and raised in Brauweiler, just north of Cologne – where he lives with his family – Wirtz joined local club FC Köln in 2010 as a seven-year-old. He’s been famously described by the local newspaper as “the best midfielder to come through the club in 30-years” and almost a year into his professional career, those bold claims doesn’t seem so overly superstitious right now.

Wirtz played an integral role in the FC Köln U17 team’s charge to the German Championship in 2019. Potential suitors, believed to be Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Liverpool, all made swift inquiries for his talented services.

Wirtz scored eight goals in ten U17 games in the 2019/20 campaign before Leverkusen came calling, a club Wirtz felt would provide him with the opportunity to flourish and significantly aid his development. Almost a year on, and Leverkusen are doing just that. The club secured his signature in January 2020.

Wirtz blossomed immediately after his move, hitting two goals and three assists in his first four games for the U17s. He was deemed too good for such a level at just 16 years of age, and was rewarded with his first game for the Leverkusen first team against Werder Bremen in May 2020.

In so doing, he became the club’s youngest-ever debutant and the Bundesliga’s third-youngest player ever, at the age of 17 years & 16 days. 

“He was important to us, that’s why I’m making an exception to speak about one player specifically. He played well right from the off, kept the ball well and pushed forward well too. It’s always something special when you make a debut, especially when you’re 17. All in all, it was a good performance by him, he wasn’t nervous.”

– Leverkusen head coach Peter Bosz on Wirtz’s debut. 

Wirtz has gone on to make 26 Bundesliga appearances for Leverkusen and is already being touted as one of Germany’s biggest talents currently. It’s a huge claim for a 17-year-old but the right one as Wirtz has shown such remarkable maturity and development within his unique abilities.

Why is Wirtz so highly regarded? What’s his style?

Florian Wirtz has already drawn many comparisons to German’s established attacking-midfield pair Kai Havertz and Julian Brandt so far this past year. There’s no reason why Wirtz can go on and enjoy a much bigger and better career than both of those players. Certainly, it may seem an excessive claim, but Florian Wirtz is that good.

The 17-year-old is a dynamic, mobile, agile and creative midfielder. He’s a diminutive player, standing at just 5’9″, although he still has considerable time to grow and develop physically and mentally. In terms of his position, he’s primarily an attacking midfielder, and has been deployed as such under Peter Bosz at Leverkusen, although he has also lined up in central midfield, as a winger and even as a false-nine at times pointing to his incredible versatility and understanding of each role.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIPa2ZL-vDM

He is indeed quite comparable to Havertz in that the Chelsea playmaker also fulfilled various roles for Leverkusen, but both these players are undoubtedly at their best when playing as playmakers, or number 10s.

As shown through the heatmap below, he is incredibly adept at fulfilling many different roles and positions to the best of his ability. That says a lot for a player who’s only been in the game just under a year.

Most of Wirtz’ game is centred just before the opposition penalty in between the lines, as well as in the half-spaces. He is certainly not averse in roaming across the attacking third and linking up with his teammates as well becoming so effective and dangerous when provided with the space and opportunity to manoeuvre out of tight spaces, turning his marker in order to create opportunities or fashion out chances for himself.

At the time of writing, Wirtz has featured in 29 games for Leverkusen this season, and in terms of raw goal-scoring and assisting numbers, he’s been playing above expectations providing Leverkusen with the platform to become so dangerous and devastating on the counter as well as trying to break down low blocks.

The teenager has so far netted six times, with a further six assists, four in the Bundesliga and five assists which in per 90 minutes terms, that counts to 0.22 goals per 90 and 0.27 assists per 90, providing him with an excellent goal contribution ratio of 0.49/90.

Wirtz is amongst the best and most effective creative attacking midfielders in the Bundesliga. He is extremely influential in possession, and his passing stats show this too. The 17-year-old averages around 42 passes per game owing to Peter Bosz’ possession based system deployed at the BayArena.

Wirtz’ passing accuracy reads at 78.74% which may be seem low for a central midfielder but if you take notice of Wirtz’ game, you’d realise that he is of course given the license to express himself with his passing, attempting high-risk passes in order to form goal scoring chances. So in actual fact his accuracy is at an impressive rate, especially for a player his age.

Wirtz attempts around 11 forward passes per game, at an accuracy of 61%, illustrating the fact that he often likes to play the risky passes as a creative midfielder should do.  Of course, he does need to at times improve his decision-making, since he often ends up losing possession through such risky attempts, but this will come with time and experience – its vital remember that he will not even turn 18 for nearly four months yet, at the time of writing. 

What is so impressive about Florian Wirtz is the incredible bravery and courage at which he operates for Leverkusen, and credit should be given to coach Peter Bosz’ who holds such high belief and faith in Wirtz’ abilities and the German wonderkid is repaying that faith. Already, Wirtz holds the vision, intricacy and abilities to attempt such audacious passes as well as linking up with the likes of Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby in such tight areas. It is exciting to watch at full throttle and much of that is down to Wirtz’ determination, flexibility and enthusiasm.

The 17-year-old is an incredibly skillful player. It doesn’t matter whether two or three players surround him at a time, he is still incredibly adept at overcoming such obstacles. Wirtz attempts 3.61 dribbles per 90 and boasts a success rate at 71% highlighting his impressive ball-carrying technique and the knack of trying to get by his marker. Wirtz possesses very quick feet, and can get away from opponents with a quick burst of speed when needed. This, along with his composure, allows him to be able to get out of opposition challenges on occasion and then drive into space.

He is extremely comfortable both on the transition as well as in established phases of possession, although it must be said that he is quite good at finding runners into space. Leverkusen possess such inventive and quick players in Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby and Wirtz loves to use them to his advantage. Leverkusen are devastating in counter-attacking scenarios, and Wirtz is central to that. The 17-year-old is also quite capable of picking locks and threading passes through the eye of the needle:

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

Wirtz averages 1.97 key passes per 90 minutes and 3.33 final third passes. For a 17-year-old, this is incredible. So many players his age are hesitant in these sorts of areas, and tend to overplay their passes or do not play them at the right time to beat an offside trap, but Wirtz knows when to pass and executes them at such an impressive rate.

Wirtz is perfectly capable of finding teammates in space, whether on the counter-attack or in more established phases of possession, trying to break down defences who defend deep. He does indeed need to cut down on his frequency of attempting such passes to improve his ball retention, but this is a requirement for Peter Bosz’s style of play, which focuses on verticality and rapid attacks. 

The teenager is very knowledgeable and plays to his managers instructions. especially in the final third, right down to a tee.

Arguably, his biggest strengths lie in his movement and are big markers in his ability to get past his markers. Despite being just 17-years-old, the German wonderkid is extremely intelligent in terms of the space he finds in the attacking areas. He knows which space he needs to take up in order to hurt his opponents, and that’s what sets him apart from his peers. Once he receives the ball in such areas, he holds the nous and the bravery to drive at the defence as well as laying on his teammates.

Wirtz also possesses a unique tendency to roam in to deep areas, and pick up passes from his defenders or last midfielder in order to drag his marker at out of their area, in order for either Leon Bailey, Nadem Amiri or Moussa Diaby to exploit. It’s why Leverkusen are so destructive when attacking vertically, and Wirtz’ positioning and spatial awareness is evidently effective in Bosz’ system.

Another valuable trait that Bosz’ attacking players must possess is the energy and tenacity to press his opponents high up the pitch. Yet again, Wirtz performs this role with such consummate professionalism and expertise. Like mentioned before, the teenager is brilliantly energetic, tenacious as well as enthusiastic especially when counter-pressing or pressing. Once he loses the ball, he immediately goes and chases it back. Wirtz averages 6.67 successful pressures, 0.87 interceptions and performs 0.66 tackles per game. It’s not the best, but it shows that he does indeed fulfil his task well.

No wonder Peter Bosz is so excited by his abilities. Wirtz’ willingness to learn, improve and take on each tasks will indeed stand him in such grand stead for the future. This is a ridiculously talented player, one who could go on and become arguably the best of his generation. Who needs Kai Havertz when Leverkusen are now blessed with the ability and talents of Florian Wirtz.

What does the future hold for Florian Wirtz?

Florian Wirtz, despite being only 17 years, has managed to hold his own in the dazzling lights of the Bundesliga, to the extent that Leverkusen have not been hurt too hard by the departure of Havertz to Chelsea.

The young playmaker has shown a maturity, understanding and match intelligence beyond his years so far at Leverkusen, and yet he still has so much to learn and improve physically and mentally under Peter Bosz’ tutelage. Leverkusen are currently five points away from a Champions League place in 6th at the time of writing and will need to step up their game in the coming weeks if they are to secure a Champions League spot.

Wirtz will be central to their ambitions, not just for the now but in future too.

Of course, it will not be too long before Wirtz is snapped up by a much bigger European outift in the future, but any talk of him moving from a stable and ever-improving Leverkusen team is incredibly premature. It will be imperative that the midfielder focuses on improving and sharpening his game, because he is well on course to acheiving greatness if he can remain hard-working and humble.

The 17-year-old has also made the step up to the German U-21 side in the last year, so do not be surprised to see him turning out for Die Mannschaft sooner rather than later. You may well see him in Germany’s final squad for the Euros this summer. He certainly deserves the opportunity.

Arguably the most talented prospect to emerge from Ukraine since Andriy Shevchenko. Viktor Tsygankov is a player beginning to turn a lot of scouting heads around Europe. 9 goals and 3 assists in 14 league games for Dynamo Kiev this season and two goals in their Champions League campaign has propelled Tsygankov to become arguably Ukraine’s brightest hope since the AC Milan legend.

This incredibly gifted young forward will certainly be grabbing much headlines in the coming future, not just at club level but also at international level with the delayed Euro 2020 taking place in the summer of 2021.

By then, Tsygankov will have already established himself as a major European hotshot if rumours of a big move before then are believed to be true.

His performances in Europe over the past year has been truly outstanding, and he finished last year recording some spectacular numbers, 17 goals and 8 assists in all competitions, establishing himself as Dynamo Kiev’s most influential force in front of goal.

But how has Tysgankov got to where he is right now?

This scout report will provide a brief overview of his emergence on the scene, an analysis of his role and influence on the Dynamo Kyiv team, and what he could offer potential suitors in the future.

Who is Viktor Tsygankov?

Born in Nahariya, Israel, where his father featured as a footballer. Tsygankov is a product of the Nyva Vinnystia and Dynamo Kyiv sports schools.

Tsygankov made his Kyiv debut in August 2016 in the Ukrainian Premier League against FC Stal Kamianske, and since then has been a regular feature in the Dynamo Kyiv side. During the 2018/19 campaign, he received huge acclaim for his performances, being rewarded with the Player of the Month gong on three occasions.

Almost 150 appearances for the club, 15 Ukraine caps and a catalogue of of admirers, it be quickly said that Tsygankov is currently one of the golden boys of football in Eastern Europe.

Already well-experienced in the ways of the Europa League and to a lesser extent the Champions League, Tsygankov has cut his teeth at the highest level so far, but not on a consistent basis. Week by week in the league however, he has regularly shown why he has rapidly risen to the summit of Ukrainian football in such a short space of time.

What’s so special about Tsygankov?

Very few players from Eastern Europe has or can excite fans like Viktor Tsygankov, that’s why he is arguably one of the most coveted players to emerge from that side of the continent.

An incredibly agile, skilful and technically gifted winger, Tsygankov has quickly demanded the attention and respect of his peers through his showstopping abilities and eye-catching match winning performances. The old saying of letting your feet and performances on the pitch do the talking can be applied to the Ukrainian wonderkid.

He is a player who leads by example, and there can be no complaints if a player as young as he is can captain a club as prestigious as Dynamo Kyiv. The archetypal leader is an abrasive, all-action, vocal, pitbull-like character, marshalling the team from the centre of the pitch.

Tsygankov – a right-sided winger – does not need to play up to those typical conventions. Instead, his skill and footballing gift commands the respect of those around him, regardless of seniority.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qK0c0otUc8

The first thing you need to know about Viktor Tsygankov is that he has a wand of a left-foot which allows him the gift to become so deadly at set-pieces situations and penalties. He is Dynamo Kyiv’s designated set-piece taker, and his abilities in such situations makes the team so dangerous at corners and free-kicks. He can either drill his free-kicks, or delicately or effortlessly place them into the path of an on-rushing teammate.

His set-piece delivery is exquisite and the sheer volume of assists he has garnered from these situations for Kyiv is evidently no coincidence. Lining up on the right of the attack, his deadly left foot is perfect for when he cuts into the half-spaces and unleash goal-scoring worldies or to play an intricate pass to his forwards. Tsygankov is far from a one-dimensional winger, from his position, he loves to make late runs into the opposition penalty area and finish off moves.

He is quick, but not exclusively in the sense that all he has is raw speed. He is intelligent and knows where to position himself at crucial times. The 23-year-old is also not afraid to take on his man, or produce something out of the ordinary. When he cuts in on that left-foot, there is a sure guarantee that something special is about to happen.

One of his notable performances so far this season, was against Spain in November scoring the winner for Ukraine, putting in a performance from the bench that surely made a few more admirers stand up and take notice. Tsygankov took his goal well too, placing a shot beyond the on-rushing David de Gea in the Spain goal.

Tsygankov holds the vision, ball control, unique skill-sets and the technique needed to be so dangerous around the final third. In the Europa League last season, he averaged 3.2 shots per game, 3.4 key passes and 1.2 dribbles showcasing his tremendous influence and understanding when conjuring chances for his teammates.

17 goals and 8 assists in all competitions last season is simply outstanding and a true testament to the kind of player Tsygankov is. He’s already followed that up with eight goals in the Ukrainian Premier League, and ten in all competitions. When faced with type counter-attacking scenario, where there is a need to pick the right opportunities and decisions, the 23-year-old is well-versed in making the right ones to create chances. He’s not the only one finishing the chances, he’s the one creating them.

Watching Tysgankov at full-throttle is incredibly enthralling. An exciting sight to behold.

What does the future hold for Tsygankov? Can he cut it at the top level?

Viktor Tsygankov is a player blessed with such unique skill-sets and wonderful technical acumen. With no disrespect to the Ukrainian division, Tsygankov is a player who’s abilities need to be in the spotlight, and he won’t get the European recognition and acclaim he gets playing in Ukraine.

Maybe, if a move doesn’t materialize for him this summer, some sparkling performances at the Euros for Ukraine will surely get him the recognition his talents warrant. Then, a whole host of top clubs will be scouring for his signature.

Without a shadow of a doubt, Tsygankov holds the personality, passion, drive, skills and talents needed to cut it at the top level. It certainly won’t be long before he’s lighting up our television screens.

When Jadon Sancho moved to Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2017, it was viewed as a risky but brave move for the exciting youngster, a move that had rarely been seen amongst English youngsters. A few years on, and Sancho has proved those lingering doubts wrong, becoming one of the most prestigious young forwards in the world, but also paving the way for fellow young English talents to follow the same route.

Marcus Edwards left the Tottenham academy to join Portuguese outfit Vitória Guimares, Josh Maja – back in England having signed for Fulham this month – departed from Sunderland to join French side Bordeaux, Reiss Nelson left on-loan from Arsenal to join Sancho in Germany but with Hoffenheim and the most recent and notable move was Jude Bellingham joining Sancho in Dortmund last summer and is already thriving in a totally different environment.

Though, one player who took a similar route to find stardom in Europe is former Tottenham academy product Noni Maduake who packed his bags to join Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2018 on a free transfer, seeking a more attainable route to first-team football and embark on a journey that would eventually start off his rapid development and further his education in a much different European league.

Fast forward a couple years and the 18-year-old has morphed into one of Europe’s most promising young talents.

It’s a testament to his bravery and the confidence in his own abilities to try a totally different environment and its a risk that has paid off in abundance for the talented young forward.

So what’s Madueke’s journey been like? How has he progressed in Holland and why is he currently touted as one of Europe’s most coveted teenage footballers?

Who is Noni Madueke?

Born and raised in London, England. Noni Madueke is of Nigerian descent through his parents and is currently embroiled in a tug of war between Nigeria and England as both nations seek to snap him up for their international sides.

Madueke spent a good chunk of his early career with Tottenham Hotspur becoming a stand out player in the youth ranks, captaining their under-16s side and making his debut for the under-18s at the age of just 15 years.

Such standout characteristics, maturity and performances shown gained a whole of host of admirers across Europe. All of Chelsea, Manchester United, Celtic were all linked for his signature with Manchester United rumoured to have made an offer for the player.

However, it would of course be PSV who won the race for his signature, with Madueke himself stating that Jadon Sancho was an inspiration and a catalyst for him to make his move across Europe:

“Sancho has opened the eyes to other talents. A year after him, I went from Spurs to PSV. The plan I had in mind then is now working out the way I intended it.

In England it is very difficult as a young talent to get into the first team, especially at the bigger clubs. The squads are very large and there is little room for youngsters. They often stay in reserve teams for a long time or are loaned out.

There is little flow or chance to break through. That is completely different in the Netherlands.”

Madueke firstly had to bide his time before a first team debut when he arrived in the Netherlands. However, after showcasing his talents at both under-17 and under-19 level, the wonderkid was eventually promoted to the second team Jong PSV during the 2019/20 campaign.

His talents, maturity and adaptation quickly shone through once again, and after six games for Jong PSV, he earned a first team call-up.

But just days after being handed his first start for the Boeren, the 2019/20 campaign was brought to a premature end due to Covid-19.

It was not all doom and gloom for the Madueke, though, as PSV would tie him down to a fresh contract until 2024 just two days after his first start.

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A post shared by Noni Tristan Madueke (@nonzinoo10)

He would then go on to cement a regular berth in the PSV first team where so far this campaign, he’s notched eight goals and eight assists in all competitions. A superb return for a player who only joined the first team picture just under a year ago.

In terms of the international scene, Madueke has also thrived now currently biding his time with the under-18s, however the 18-year-old is still eligible to play for Nigeria due to his parents with the nation currently trying to prize him away from the Three Lions setup.

What is Madueke’s style of play?

PSV are amongst the most exciting teams currently in Europe because of their significant emphasis on youth and providing them a chance to impress with the first tam. Managed by former RB Salzburg and Bayer Leverkusen coach Roger Schmidt – two teams who hold similar philosophies – the German encourages an aggressive, high-intensity and free-flowing system, very similar to that of Jurgen Klopp and Marcelo Bielsa.

PSV are blessed with an embarrassment of riches in young talents who are on a steady progression under Schmidt and more importantly players who are primed to go on and have flourishing careers in future. Mohamed Ihattaren, Donyell Malen, Cody Gakpo, Ibrahim Sangare and, of course Noni Madueke.

Roger Schmidt has been very sparodic in his use of Noni Madueke this season, primarily bringing him on as a sub in order to take advantage of the tired legs in his opponents which he is then given the license to wreak havoc.

The 18-year-old’s pace, directness, trickery, tactical understanding and the ability to use both feet has made him a pivotal asset for the Dutch giants, sitting in third place, four points off Ajax in first place.

Noni Madueke is a raw but unique and exciting talent. A player who’s goals and assists record this season has propelled him to become one of the countries deadliest forwards. He ranks fifth for goals per 90 (0.65) in the Dutch Eredivisie and first for assists per 90 (0.57), a superb return for a player still learning his trade.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOZrxHaV0B0

One of Madueke’s most impressive traits as you may have seen in the above clip provided by Brazil Scout is the supreme confidence at which he carries the ball and goes about his attacking play. This confidence coupled with his impressive pace, trickery and artistry makes him a dangerous player in 1v1 situations. His ability in progressing the ball is very much in the same mould as some of the best around and its why he is involved in a goal every 62 minutes.

The English wonderkid has proven time and time again this season that he can be constant threat, no matter how good the opposition is. He isn’t afraid to get by his marker even if they are the most defensively sound in the league. He carries around the aura, the panache and the confidence needed in order to come up against the best.

Lining up on the right-hand side, the youngster loves cutting inside if provided with enough space in order to create and form goalscoring opportunities due to his great dribbling abilities and most importantly the awareness of what’s around him. Because of this, he is easily able to pick out his teammates with some smart and incisive through balls and also using them as decoys in order to drive into the penalty area. He averages 1.49 key passes and an astonishing 6 dribbles per 90 highlighting his incredible decisiveness in the final third.

Madueke’s ability to locate holes between the opposition midfield and defence, receive the ball on the half-turn and pick out the right moments in which to exploit spaces or run in-behind is superb. He holds a knack of fooling his defenders because they simply cannot anticipate what move he’ll perform next. His tall, rangy and flexible build allows him to get about the attacking phases with such ease and confidence.

Once he gets in dangerous positions, he showcases a maturity and an understanding that belies his years. He’s perfectly calm as well as destructive in order to become very effective when it matters. Six goals and six assists in 19 Eredivisie and Europa League appearances so far this season tells you all you need to know about Madueke’s qualities. The Englishman has also shown a range in his finishing this season too, at times beating his marker after making space for himself, latching on to the end of cutbacks and crosses or finishing off smart passing moves.

As a winger though, its his assists and creating chances which will be judged the most, but Madueke passes with flying markers. We’ve acknowledged his dribbling abilities in order to create but its his superb positioning and spatial awareness that increases his pass marks.

He knows where to set himself before receiving a pass but also holds the ability to time his runs effectively in order to receive a through ball or a raking cross-field pass. Where most youngsters his age fail to capitalize in such situations mainly because of their lack of experience, over-exuberance or petulance, Madueke surpasses these weaknesses, harnessing an edge and incisiveness to his game that ultimately proves devastating within PSV’s counter attacking football.

He may not get himself involved with the first or second phases of play, contributing in keeping possession but instead waits until he receives the ball in the final in order to strut his stuff.

He averages 16.5 passes per game, which seems little in comparison to his more possession-heavy teammates but through his dribble map above, most of his work takes place within the final third. The Tottenham academy graduate mostly follows up a successful dribble with a shot which means that he is fairly confident in his ability to get the better of his opponents in one on ones.

Being a winger, Madueke is expected to hold his own against left backs so it is not surprising to see him boast a 78.9% success rate in duels with left-backs. In total, he boasts a 76.1% successful dribbles rate which is a very great number for a player who is still in the early stages of his development.

One aspect in which Madueke will need to work on his combination plays. Working in Roger Schmidt’s system main involve individuality which the 18-year-old most excels at but in such an aggressive, high-intensity system, its the team as a whole which matters most where everyone works as a unit in order for the system deployed to have more of an effect.

He frequently tries to dribble when a pass is the correct call which is understandable for a player his age, but in order to grow much more and become a well-rounded and intelligent player he needs to understand when its the right time to dribble and pass.

It’s those fine margins that sets a footballer apart from the rest.

What does the future hold for Madueke?

It must be stated that he is still only 18, and one can expect that these areas of his game will improve, especially under Roger Schmidt. His weaknesses are typical for a player of his experience (or lack thereof). Nevertheless, Madueke’s path to the Eredivisie has given him an opportunity, one he may not have gotten in England. 

His game has been further enhanced by the risk he took a couple years ago, and its a testament to his character and maturity that he is able to thrive outside his comfort zone. An aspect which will certainly stand him in good stead for the future when he surely joins a much bigger outfit, with no disrespect to PSV of course.

For now though, his immediate future lies in Holland and PSV Eindhoven is the perfect platform for him to carry on his remarkable development. The club are fighting for Champions League football for the 2021/22 campaign and if the club can carry on their stark progression under Roger Schmidt with the help of Noni Madueke, there’s no reason why they cannot secure continental qualification. An experience which will certainly prove invaluable for Noni Madueke learning and development.

The Sky Bet Championship has become an incredible hub for talented and exciting young footballers potentially looking to make their mark amongst the elite in the Premier League and around Europe. We’ve already seen a few players blossom in the England’s second-division and go onto make their name within the country’s flagship competition that is the Barclays Premier League.

Players like Harry Kane, Jack Grealish, James Maddison, Said Benrahma, Eberechi Eze, Dan James, Andy Robertson, Harry Maguire, Jude Bellingham and a few other noticeable names have been propelled to universal stardom as a result of their time in the division. Currently, the Championship is still birthing some more sparkling wonderkids; Emi Buendia, David Brooks, Todd Cantwell, Ismaila Sarr, Max Aarons, players who have had a taste of the Barclays Premier League but still feel another year in the second division will certainly aid their development and push them in order to thrive amongst the elite in future.

There’s a few more still but one player currently regarded as the most exciting of the bunch, currently undergoing a remarkable breakthrough campaign in the Championship as one of the hottest prospects in the division is Reading’s 19-year-old wonderkid Michael Olise.

Seven goals and 10 assists so far this campaign is an incredible return for a player currently lauded one of the best teenagers in the country and with a EA Sports Young Player of The Season to boot at the EA awards to boot the 19-year-old is well on his way to national stardom. Olise has been a revelation and a key cog in Reading’s push for automatic promotion from the Championship as they sit in fourth place, a few points off Swansea in second.

Michael Olise is certainly one to watch for the now and in the future, a player blessed with such incredible flair, vision and an understanding that even the most experienced individuals in the game would kill for. But how has Olise got to this position, what’s his role in the Reading team and what could he offer potential suitors in the future?

Who is Michael Olise?

Michael Olise is born of Nigerian, Algerian and French descent through his father and mother respectively. The midfielder grew up in Hammersmith, London, and joined Chelsea’s youth academy until he was released followed by a short and unsuccessful spell in Manchester City’s youth ranks in before joining Reading in July 2015.

Olise made his Royals under-18s debut in January 2018 and his first team debut 14 months later in March 2019 at home to Leeds in the Championship aged just 17. Ever since then, Olise hasn’t looked back, appearing 19 games for Reading (13 starts) last season under previous boss Mark Bowen. This season under Veljko Paunovic, Olise has begun to reach new heights under the Serbian stewardship, even going on to dub the infamous number 7 shirt for the club.

He’s that good.

In July 2019, he signed his professional contract with Reading, scoring his first league goal for the club against in September, volleying home in the 76th minute against Barnsley at the Madejski Stadium. A few months later, the midfielder has proven a pivotal part of Reading’s rise so far this season, making him one of the country’s most exciting and prestigious young talents.

Michael Olise has gone on to make two appearances for the French under-18s, his first cap coming in the Under-18 Toulon tournament. However, Olise is still eligible to represent England and Nigeria at international level and is sure to be at the centre of a war between these three nations as to who he represents in the future.

One things for sure though, this is a player primed for international stardom, not just in the UK.

What is Olise’s role at Reading? What’s his style of play?

Michael Olise has rapidly become Reading’s showstopper over the past year, the main event in a team that has grown considerably under the tutelage of Serbian coach Veljko Paunovic.

The French under-18 international is an incredibly versatile footballer. Under Paunovic, he’s been utilised in a variety of roles in attack; on the left-wing, right-wing, centre-midfield and at no.10 and you needn’t ask why he’s been asked to fulfil such roles.

Olise is the main creative hub of this Reading side, and its shown in his 10 assists so far this campaign. An incredible player to watch, one whose abilities has made him a joy to behold on so many occasions this season but one which has also has seen him take up some key responsibilities in the team even at the age of just 19.

This is a talent with incredible ball-carrying skills, blessed with such unique artistry, wonderful technique, sumptuous vision and an understanding of the game that has elevated him to groundbreaking heights so far this campaign.

Olise is simply outstanding with the ball at his feet, when he has it, something special happens, whether its through a elegant dribble past his marker, a progressive run to build an attack or a devastating eye of the needle pass for his forwards, he is a master of the creative arts. Ten assists, 1.6 key passes and 1.1 dribbles, he is amongst the best in the division for progressive and smart passes.

📊📈 The players who have the best accuracy rate for smart passes in the Championship.

Two potential superstars in the making leading the pack. ✨

And three others from the same team chasing behind. 👀 pic.twitter.com/Jm3SPcBkXr

— First Time Finish (@firsttimefinish) January 17, 2021

He was named the Sky Bet Championship’s young player of the month for December and deservedly so, recording two goals and two assists. What stands out in Olise’s game is his incredible knack of picking the right passes at the right moments but also his understanding of where to position himself in order to become an influential figure in an attacking move.

Olise is always scanning his surroundings, finding space between the lines, painting a picture in his head before receiving the ball; all traits of a seasoned creator. He’d make established stars such as Kevin De Bruyne or Bruno Fernandes take notice.

Every single time Reading look to build an attack, they look for him. He’s the creative hub, the orchestrator. His goal against QPR at Loftus Road for example, was something special. Picking up the ball on the right-wing, he forces a lovely interchange with his teammate, setting himself with a first touch before curling a left-footed beauty into the net.

Olise possesses a wand of a left foot, a first touch to die for and a dribbling ability that leaves even the best defenders bamboozled. He doesn’t mind receiving the ball in tight areas or when surrounded with two or three players, he always finds a way to overcome it with such devastating ease and deceptive movement.

He is a player full of highlight reels. He’s attempted 104 dribbles at the time of writing, and completed 71 of them so far this season. Olise’s had a hand in 35% of Reading’s goal so far this season, a staggering statistic, truly representing his stark influence in this Reading team.

A real creative spark, Olise creates chances in a variety of ways. Prolific from set-pieces due to his excellent left foot, a threat from wide areas, a smart mover off the ball behind the striker and also capable of some intricate and neat through balls.

If this report doesn’t satisfy your new knowledge, go and watch him live. It would certainly be worth it.

An incredible young talent.

What does the future hold for Michael Olise?

It’s extraordinary to find that there is a supposed release clause in Michael Olise’s current contract of just £8million. For such a small sum money Reading will certainly be bombarded with a whole host of calls from potential suitors for Olise’s services. It is looking increasingly likely the 19-year-old will leave the Madejski Stadium at the end of the season, if even Reading do secure promotion to the Premier League.

𝗘𝗙𝗟 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 | 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲

Seven goals in 44 appearances for @ReadingFC this season — and still just 19. Congratulations to @MichaelOlise10 #TAUKAwards pic.twitter.com/RfYYeAcvIx

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) May 17, 2021

Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace and Arsenal have all been reported to hold an interest in the player and while it will be incredibly vital for Olise to keep his feet firmly grounded especially because of his tender age. However, there can be no doubting of Olise’s abilities to make it at the top level in the near future.

He holds the stature, the mentality and the abilities to thrive amongst the elite for years to come. Though, his next club will certainly have to be the move for his development and to further his learning. He simply cannot afford to join a club that will not give him the environment to play football and gain some valuable experience. For a player his age, they need to be playing football and Olise is simply too good to be warming benches.

What a talent we have on our hands. Michael Olise deserves your attention.