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.

View this post on Instagram

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.

Newly promoted VFB Stuttgart are enjoying an exciting return to the Bundesliga, currently sitting mid-table in the German Bundesliga, six points off the Champions League places and with an enthralling and impressive 5-1 win at Borussia Dortmund mid-December, they are a team strongly aiming to stamp their mark on the German top-flight and sustain their placing amongst some of Europe’s elite clubs.

The club are going about the right way, currently holding an embarrassment of riches when it comes to young exciting stars who are already making a name for themselves in Germany’s flag-ship division. Nicolás González, Silas Wamangituka (currently on seven goals, 3 assists in 14 Bundesliga outings so far this campaign), Tanguy Coulibaly, Borna Sosa, Konstantinos Mavropanos (on loan from Arsenal) are Clinton Mola are just a number of names on Pellegrino Matarazzo’s talented roster.

Though one player, currently strutting his stuff under-the-radar in this exciting looking team is Belgium under-21 international midfielder, Orel Mangala. The 22-year-old has been a mainstay in Stuttgart’s midfield this season, making 13 appearances in the Bundesliga and even chipping in with a goal and an assist so far this campaign. Mangala has performed with consummate regularity this season, putting in some silky and dominant performances from the centre of the park.

Touted for a move to Arsenal this time last year, if the talented youngster continues to lead by example in this Stuttgart team this season, there’s no reason why he cannot make the step up to a much more elite proposition in the near future, and who knows, even receive his first international call-up for the Belgium squad this year.

So, who is Orel Mangala? How has he developed at Stuttgart and what kind of characteristics on the pitch does he bring to the table?

Who is Orel Mangala?

Born in Brussels, Belgium. Orel Mangala is actually of Congolese descent through his parents.

Though, Mangala is yet another burgeoning talent to emerge from Belgian football. The midfielder spent his formative years at Anderlecht’s academy where his quick feet and intelligent passing quickly attracted plenty of admirers from across Europe. His reputation was further enhanced at the Under-17 World Cup in 2015 when he led Belgium to a third placed finish.

Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund made their move soon after. In the summer of 2016, they signed Mangala on an initial season-long loan deal which included an option to buy clause. He became a mainstay for the under-19 team who won the 2016/17 German Championship but BVB opted against signing permanently. A decision that could well soon cost the club if Mangala goes on to fulfil his remarkable potential which is already underway at his current employers.

Stuttgart, fresh from clinching promotion back to the Bundesliga had seen enough and eventually signed him when he was 19-years-old.

“Orel is a well-educated and very ambitious player,” Jan Schindelmeiser, then Stuttgart sporting director, said. “He can operate in midfield in the defensive or attacking positions and has all the necessary qualities to establish himself in the Bundesliga step-by-step.”

Mangala went straight into Die Roten’s starting XI but struggled to establish himself. Played as part of a midfield two in a 5-4-1 system, he lacked the experience to dictate games and was eventually taken out of the side. He made only one start after October and that came on the final day of the campaign.

The club decided to send him out on loan, and that they did. He required adaptation and necessary experience of regular senior football, which they sent him on loan to Hamburg in the summer of 2018.

Relegated for the first time in their history, there were huge expectations placed on the Die Rothosen squad. Ultimately they came up short, finishing fourth in Bundesliga.2.

Mangala, however, got the experience he needed. He played 34 games in all competitions for the German giants and proved himself to Stuttgart. It was timely, too, as the club were relegated again from the Bundesliga after they lost in the play-off to Union Berlin.

Yet his performances for Hamburg had not gone unnoticed. Lyon were interested in the midfielder and submitted a reported £10million bid. L’Equipe also claimed Arsenal and Roma declared the admiration for the player too. The midfielder, however, opted to sign a new contract at the club and hasn’t looked back since.

What’s Mangala’s style of play?

A dynamic, swash-buckling and all-round midfielder, Mangala is most commonly known for his silky technical attributes, intelligent passing and all-action characteristics. He’s a prominent player in Stuttgart’s midfielder providing them with much needed spark, cutting thrust and a propensity to dominate when at full flow.

While Mangala holds the characteristics to just distribute the ball from deep areas, he is much better and more fluid when he is given the license to dribble up the field in order to relieve the pressure on his team or to instigate an attacking action leading to a clear-cut opportunity.

Once he wins the ball from his opponents which he does with great regularity, he is then very well suited to bypassing instant pressure and then distributing it to his more forward-thinking teammates. This ability, especially from deep areas, or in the middle third of the pitch, is similar to Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic who is well known for breaking through the opponent’s press thanks to his slick close control and and swift turn of pace. Orel Mangala holds very similar characteristics.

So far this campaign, Mangala has managed to complete 2.7 dribbles per 90, and also cover 127.4 for progressive distances. He is an able dribbler, a trait which is hugely significant to Stuttgart’s style of play. He can turn defence into attack in an instant, it’s an invaluable trait to possess.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThnT4YaXJWo

Orel Mangala is also a fine progressive passer. Stuttgart aren’t known for their possession-based play but when Mangala is on the field, they are always capable of using it to devastating effect as they did against their rampant 5-1 win over Borussia Dortmund.

While Dortmund may have had most of the ball, it was Stuttgart who when they did eventually have possession, they cut through Dortmund’s defence at will either through some devastating through balls or players well-versed in dribbling past players in order to create openings and opportunities.

It was Mangala who did just that for the second goal, scored by another bright player in their squad and their top-scorer this campaign, Silas Wamangituka. Once Mangala knicked the ball off Raphael Guerreiro, he then drove into the penalty box, swiftly got by Guerreiro and then picked his moment to square it for Wamangituka for Stuttgart’s second goal of the game. It was a goal truly encompassing of the Belgian’s qualities in possession.

Mangala registered 2 key passes in that win over Dortmund, 86.7% passing accuracy, 2 key dribbles, 2 interceptions and 1 key tackle providing a reminder of the kind of style he provides his teammates. The Belgian was everywhere in that game, also showing just why he is an all-action, all-round type midfielder. It’s also been a regular feature throughout the campaign so far. Mangala has provided 3.00 passes into final third per 90, 3.31 progressive passes and 0.38 key passes to go along with his 2 assists so far this campaign.

Mangala’s comfort and precision on the ball makes him versatile and its why he has more than capable of fulfilling a number of positions on the pitch. But its at the base of midfield, as an anchor protecting the back-four or as a marauding box-to-box player where he is at his sparkling best.

While playing in this role, the midfielder is given the responsibility to break up play, halt-counter attacks and also provide the team with strong stability throughout, Mangala performs such to devastating effect. 1.3 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.1 clearances and also adds a knack of pressuring his opponents in order to win the ball, registering 3.31 successful pressures, 5.69 of them within the middle third of the pitch.

Forecast for the Future

Wherever Orel Mangala ends up after he serves his time at VFB Stuttgart, he’s certainly capable of making another telling contribution. If the Belgian midfielder can improve his rapid and impressive development at the club, there’s no reason why Europe’s elite could be ringing a few calls to Stuttgart who will be willing to sell, unless his price his met.

That price won’t be cheap seeing as he still has a few years left on his current contract.

One things for certain, Mangala must stay grounded. As Stuttgart aim to establish themselves in the German Bundesliga this season, the 22-year-old holds a very significant role to play in their progress, so he can’t afford to become distracted by unnecessary rumours that may hinder his focus and also ultimately his impressive development.

Also, there’s no reason why the midfielder cannot break into Roberto Martinez’ Belgian squad this summer for the Euros or even after it as there will surely be plans to fine-tune and include talented youngsters on the Belgium roster. Orel Mangala is amongst that list, and a player who possesses such a bright future.

He’s at the correct stable club in Stuttgart to further his learning and development, and providing they achieve their objective staying in the Bundesliga come the end of the campaign, he could well feel that one more year at the club may prove invaluable.

It’s no secret of Ajax’s arduous and significant emphasis on developing youth and blooding them into their first-team. They are one of the world’s most prominent and decorated clubs when it comes to their youth setup, with a whole host of highly coveted youngsters previously and currently emerging from such a prestigious and exciting club.

There’s been no change in the Ajax philosophy ever since: they invest tremendously in youth, making sure that the players receive the best physical and mental development, and even more importantly, that they are granted the earliest possible trust at the highest level.

One player currently making waves right now, earmarked within the club as a future world class talent, is 18-year-old midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who has drawn much stark comparisons to Manchester United’s Paul Pogba because of his stature, style and technical abilities on the ball.

This scout report will provide a detailed analysis of his growth and development, and also what he brings and could offer a talented Ajax side in the immediate future.

Who is Ryan Gravenberch?

Born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Gravenberch is actually of Surinamese descent. The midfielder has come through the ranks at the Ajax academy after joining them in 2010 at the age of just eight.

Gravenberch has successfully progressed through the youth system and from the under-17s all the way to the first team in the space of three years. He’s also registered 15 caps to his name as a Netherlands under-19s international and after flirting with making a first team appearance during the 2018/19 campaign, he’s certainly stepped up when given the opportunity last season, before the Eredivisie’s cancellation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He featured in 12 outings for the senior side, scoring three goals and providing a single assist, while continuing to impress and flourish when featuring for the youth team too. He’s carried on his terrific progress this season, and has already matched those numbers with 2 goals and 4 assists to his name so far in all competitions. Gravenberch became the youngest ever player to feature for the first team after making his debut against PSV in September 2018, at the age of 16 and 130 days surpassing the record set by Dutch legend Clarence Seedorf.

It says much about him that well-renowned super agent Mino Raiola swiftly moved to sign him up as a client, all combining to make a telling narrative of how much of a prestigious talent Gravenberch really is.

What is Gravenberch’s style of play?

Standing at 6ft tall with a relatively slight frame, its easy to see why many would consider Gravenberch to become the ‘next Paul Pogba’. If you ever see him in full flow, then you’d know why such comparisons are drawn.

However, Gravenberch is a more deep-lying and defensive product in comparison to Pogba. While he holds the necessary qualities such as ball control, power, size and technical skills to drive his team up the pitch with such dominance and elegance, he’s required within Erik Ten Hag’s system to keep things ticking over in midfield.

When playing for the first team, he is regularly used as a pivotal defensive midfielder in Ajax’s customary 4-3-3 shape or as a left-sided deep-lying midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 system. By this, he mostly serves as the most deep-lying member of the central trio which allows his teammates to join the attack and enjoy a free role when on the ball. Gravenberch sticks to his position providing cover for his fellow midfielders, becoming the focal point when possession is being recycled and also screening in front of the back four.

One of the most prominent elements of a deep-lying player is not only his passing abilities but also his defensive duels. In this area, Gravenberch already holds the size, strength and long legs to help him thrive in such roles. He averaged 7.72 defensive duels per 90 per game last season – a decent figure considering he doesn’t play week-in, week-out for the side. With an outstanding success rate of 68.18%, he’s better than most in the division at winning his defensive battles whether in the air or on the ground.

Just because he’s at the tender age of 18, doesn’t mean he can’t stamp his authority on games and that he performs with such grace and admirable aplomb. So far this season, he’s been an integral cog in Erik Ten Hag’s evolving Ajax side, and has more or less established himself as a first team regular and its well deserved. At the time of writing, he’s featured in 38 matches providing four goals and and six assists including a superb effort against FC Midtjyland in the group stages of the Champions League.

Ajax's 18-year-old midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is a special talent 🤩

What a goal 🔥 #UCLpic.twitter.com/mugLToYUVy

— Goal (@goal) December 1, 2020

With his massive presence in the heart of midfield, he aids his team tremendously in controlling the game and switching from defence to attack within an instant. Gravenberch’s youthful exuberance and elegance on the ball makes him a joy to behold in full flow, hustling and bustling his opponents as well as dribbling with the ball to get out of pressure. His nimble footwork and quick change of feet means he’s more than capable of dribbling his way out of trouble, even if its deep in his own half.

The ability to read the game quickly and effortlessly is a fundamental feature of Ajax’s system. Gravenberch holds great vision both in attack and defence. When defending, he needs to be able to read the game in full, anticipating what’s about to occur in the opponents attack and tailor his movements and actions precisely and proactively.

The Dutch wonderkid is very good at cutting passing lanes and stopping opponents finding much more dangerous players in between the lines. His 7.43 interceptions per 90 recorded in the Eredivisie last season is over 40% better than the average. This year, he averages 1.6 interceptions and 1.7 tackles per game {WhoScored}.

While his physical stature is a stand out feature, its his incredible attributes when turning defence into attack that is equally impressive. It is the hallmark of his game. He applies such swift acceleration to bring the ball out of trouble by performing long progressive runs into the middle and final third of the pitch.

Gravenberch plays at such fine rhythm and is difficult to stop when at full speed. Players his age could perform such roles, but panic when it comes to most important aspect of distributing the ball at the right moments to the right players, the 18-year-old is adept at playing the right pass at the right time to influence the attack.

His explosive style was further highlighted in his average of 3.16 progressive runs per 90 last season, the best average in the whole of the Eredivisie. Gravenberch is also equally important in transitions when he doesn’t have the ball, constantly making the right movements to receive the ball or searching for empty zones across the middle third.

It allows Ajax the opportunity to dominate play in those areas, as well as providing the adequate options to overpower the opponents. When opponents press Ajax defenders, Gravenberch regularly picks up convenient pockets of space so his teammates can easily find him to overcome that pressure.

In the Ajax academy, Gravenberch has grown up within a system that places such emphasis on keeping possession, where controlling the game with short, neat, quick passes is placed above everything else. Because of his development within such philosophies, Gravenberch is deeply accustomed to this style of play and fits the system perfectly. His passing success rate at 86.8% is the best amongst his peers.

While the majority of his passes are safe, not taking too much risk, it still holds such vital importance to Ajax’s build up play. It shouldn’t take away the fact that Gravenberch can of course perform risky passes, the elegance at which he so effortlessly performs requires much risk, but its hugely rewarding to Ajax’s swift and exciting football. Gravenberch constantly attempts to find his teammates around the penalty box, highlighted through his 11.75 passes into the final third per90, and 1.3 key passes per 90, despite playing so deep in midfield.

Although the player spends most of his time in the midfield, far from the goal, he does not shy away from stepping out of his midfield zone and take part in the combination plays. Ajax’s system under Erik Ten Hag requires and demands such freedom and risk and that’s why Gravenberch thrives. Being excellent with his feet, he can easily be involved in one-touch plays and can support his teammates in the short build-ups. He averaged 2.2 dribbles per game last season which means he is hugely influential within the final third when he needs to be.

Gravenberch is on his way to becoming one of the most complete midfielders if he carries on this impressive rapid and yet, steady progression.

What does the future hold for Ryan Gravenberch?

Ryan Gravenberch is a player blessed with such tremendous and unique midfield qualities. At his tender of age, he holds a knowledge and understanding of the game that most his age would kill for, which means he’s already ahead of a lot of aspects to develop and learn. There is nothing to doubt about his talents and capabilities but these alone will not allow him to fulfil his promise.

A lot will depend on his application, personality and drive to succeed.

He’s already at the right club to thrive, and a move elsewhere can’t be on the agenda, despite the fact that Mino Raiola is his agent. Embedding himself as one of the key players of the Ajax first team must be his priority and his experiences so far shows he can perform to such levels every week as he’s already doing so far this campaign.

Gravenberch is an an exceptional talent, and a player of his talents will surely be given more responsibilities as well as freedom to express himself as the season progresses. It’s no doubt he will be, Ajax offers such flexibility in abundance, ranging from the youth sides right down to the first team. Gravenberch is no different. Despite being just 18 years of age, this season could be a defining one for him, a chance to further stake his claim amongst the elite in Europe.

France are richly blessed with a plethora of wonderfully gifted centre-backs. From Aymeric Laporte, Raphael Varane, Benjamin Pavard, Lucas Hernandez, Wesley Fofana, Clement Lenglet, Kurt Zouma, Presnel Kimpembe, Malang Sarr to Dayot Upamecano, there isn’t a single nation in the world who can boast of such a magnificent wealth and strength in numbers at centre-back.

There is yet another name to be added to that long laundry list of talented and elite-level French defenders, and and he maybe one of the best yet.

That man is Sevilla’s 22-year-old centre-back Jules Koundé.

The former Bordeaux defender is reportedly under intense interest from Manchester City who are currently in a strong pursuit of an elite level centre-back before the summer window closes on the 5th October.

Koundé is seen as an alternative to Kalidou Koulibaly, but his progress over the past year could see him surpass the Napoli centre-back for years to come. Since his move to Sevilla from Bordeaux, the defender has established himself as one of the key men in Sevilla’s Europa League triumph and their impressive 4th placed finish in La Liga.

The French wonderkid formed a fantastic rock-solid defensive partnership with Brazilian Diego Carlos at the heart of Julen Lopetegui’s back-line. While Carlos may have scared off potential suitors due to his erratic defending during the closing stages of their Europa League campaign, Koundé has seen his own reputation and development usurp to such grandeur levels within European football.

So who is Jules Koundé and how has he propelled himself over the past year at Sevilla?

Who is Jules Koundé?

Born in Paris, France. Jules Koundé is a product of the Bordeaux academy. He featured for three youth clubs, Fraternelle de Landiras, Cérons and La Brède FC before he was snapped up by the Ligue 1 outfit in 2013.

He then made his way up through the youth ranks before finally featuring for the B team in 2016, where he played a prominent role, playing 30 games.

Koundé was then rewarded with his first team Bordeaux debut Coupe de France cup fixture against US Granville which ended in a 2-1 defeat. He played the full 90 minutes, and 30 minutes of extra time and gave the management much reason to be optimistic about his role despite the result. His maiden Ligue 1 debut came only a few days later, a 1-0 victory against Troyes in January 2018. His first goal for the club came the following month in a close 3-2 win over Amiens.

Koundé made 51 first team appearances that year, truly establishing himself as a first team regular and a serious talent for the future. It wasn’t long before Sevilla came knocking for his services, and in July 2019, made his move to Spain in a deal worth €25 million, a price that till now, has proven yet another steel and brilliant buy from the clubs hierarchy and of course, world-renowned Sporting Director Monchi.

His first season in Spain saw him go onto feature in 41 games for Sevilla, proving a vital figure in their success, finishing in the Champions League places in La Liga and winning the Europa League at the expense of Inter Milan. Koundé was also rewarded with a place on the UEFA Europa League team of the season through his impressive showings throughout the competition.

The 21-year-old has represented his country both at under-20 and under-21 level, making his debut for the latter in April 2020 against Georgia.

What’s all the hype surrounding Jules Koundé?

Quick, agile, strong and very good in the air as well as in possession, Jules Koundé has quickly grown into one of the most complete defenders of his age group. Much of that owes to his incredible versatility, the 22-year-old can also fulfil roles at right-back, right-wing back and strangely at right-wing too.

However, after last season’s sparkling performances, it’d be wise to judge him solely on his showings at centre-back, and that’s where he’s most comfortable. Though, as opposed to the more, aggressive, gung-ho approach of his defensive partner, Diego Carlos, Koundé is the more measured and conservative outlet in Sevilla’s incredibly unique partnership.

Perhaps that’s why Sevilla often looked so comfortable and assured at the back over the past year, because of the fine balance between the two centre-backs. So far this season, Sevilla have struggled for consistency, losing four of their 10 La Liga fixtures at the time of writing, however, they still hold one of the best defences in the league strangely enough, conceding just 9 goals and much of that is down to the excellent pairing of Kounde and Diego Carlos.

Koundé’s reserved approach leads him to delay his defensive actions and forces his opponents into making mistakes by closing down angles; that’s probably why he ranked low last season for tackles won (0.9) and interceptions (1.3).

Koundé isn’t one of those defenders who goes into tackles for the sake of it though, unless need be, he’s a player who uses his strength and agility to usher attackers away from the danger area and then engages them when he’s confident he can recover possession. His 1v1 duels are quite impressive, always watching the ball rather than the man, timing his tackles to perfection. He is incredibly poised and level-headed for his age and its shown through his decision making when dealing with 1v1 situations, using his physical strength to guard the ball in these scenarios.

While he may seem conservative and passive at first viewing, he’s a fantastic last-ditch defender. Before his opponents pull the trigger, he’s the one to quickly put a block in and halt the threat. He’s also so heroic when clearing of his line. He averages 1.14 blocks per 90 in La Liga this season, and also a thrilling 3.43 clearances. Koundé is a player with such remarkable understanding in when to engage his opponents and when to stand off them.

He picks and chooses his moments when stepping out of his defensive line. If all else fails, he has Brazillian defensive-midfielder Fernando to regularly drift into the back-line when defending deep to mop up attacks. Although, he may need to improve his decision-making when stepping out of his defensive line, he still holds the positional awareness and recovery speed to make up for it.

Sevilla have often defended in a zonal man-marking system under Lopetegui, it is when each player has to closely mark an opponent in his zone, and once that opponent leaves, the responsibility is transferred over to the next defender.

Hence, when an attacker who is occupying Koundé’s defensive zone decides to drop deeper, Koundé immediately pressures his opponent to force an error and block the passing lane. It’s that confidence he has in Fernando to mop up after him that allows him the license to approach an on-rushing attacker, even if it fails. Koundé averaged 3.27 successful pressures in the defensive third last season in La Liga, and this season he is averaging 2.75 already in just 10 outings. He is a consistent and trust-worthy defender, and its amazing to watch his growth and maturity under Lopetegui considering this is just his fourth season experiencing first team football.

Against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Super Cup final defeat in September, Jules Koundé put in yet another defensive show stopping performance, highlighting his incredible knack of showing up when it matters most, as he did also in the Europa League final playing against the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez. The defender once again showed he’s not afraid to match it with the best. He was integral in Sevilla’s success last season, and there’s no reason why he can’t take his game to another level this season.

Another attribute that stands out in Koundé’s game, is his aerial prowess. Standing at 5’11, you wouldn’t expect to win most of his aerial duels, but he boasts an incredible leap and heading ability. Not only is he capable of sniffing out opponents and come out on top aerially but he even surprisingly has knack of beating the tallest forwards in the air. He wins on average 4.06 aerial duels which is already an improvement on last season (3.64). An impressive feat despite his height.

As good as he is winning them defensively, he doesn’t hold the same effect when battling in the opponents penalty area from corners, he does tend to miss a fair few headed chances from set-pieces but that’s something he can certainly improve on without worry.

In reference to his ball distribution, while Diego Carlos attempts the Hollywood long-raking passes, Koundé again attempts the safe option, recycling possession and keeping things ticking over in order to circulate the ball and disrupt the opponents shape. He completes just over 80% of his passes this season and he also averages 4.90 passes into the final third highlighting his incredible prowess in possession of the ball. As soon as he receives a pass, he always looks to pass forward when the opportunity arises.

The only time he attempts an audacious pass is when a winger steps out of his designated wide areas in the half-space and aims to thread a pass which breaks the opposition lines, it then gives either the full-backs the chance to push forward and occupy the open space, which he’ll also attempt to play a pass into that area.

If Koundé is to make the jump from a world-class prospect to a world-class centre back, he’ll need to improve both in terms of his vision as well as his precision on the ball, but that will come with time.

What’s the next step for Koundé?

Jules Koundé has developed into an exception young central defender in the space of just a year, and his exposure to first team football, in La Liga, Europa League and the Champions League has only enhanced his learning and development. Also, having a taste of winning a major trophy can only ignite his hunger for more trophies and give him that winning mentality.

It’s important he keeps his feet on the ground, after Manchester City held much interest in him during the summer, when they eventually turned to Ruben Dias in the end. While the interest is deserved, it would be advisable for the player to further his development remaining in Seville for another year at least. He certainly won’t be lacking in potential suitors in future when he feels he needs to take the next step.

He is at the right club, a club who will continue to provide him with the opportunities and platform to improve.

Koundé already holds the right ingredients, character and abilities to enhance his game amongst Europe’s best. His growth the past year has been nothing short of spectacular, and that already makes for much great optimism for the future. The ball is already in Koundé’s court.

THE ‘Hungarian Kevin De Bruyne’ and arguably the most valuable player in the Austrian Bundesliga, Dominik Szoboszlai is quickly turning a lot of heads around Europe with his scintilating performances for Red Bull Salzburg this past year.

Along with Erling Braut Haaland and Takumi Minamino, before their January departures, Szoboszlai formed the base and foundations of an exciting RB Salzburg attack which also wreaked havoc in the Champions League last season.

Already in the Champions League this campaign, he’s already become the youngest Hungarian to notch two goals from two consecutive Champions League matches, his second coming at the Wanda Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid. A quite brilliant goal too and the first against Lokomotiv Moscow, an even better one:

Dominik Szoboszlai with another insane goal.

12 goals and 18 assists in his last 21 games is mad. pic.twitter.com/lVqaxixLx4

— Bence (@BenBocsak) October 21, 2020

Dominik Szoboszlai quickly emerged as one of the key pieces in the attacking setup, now with Haaland and Minamino out of the picture, Szoboszlai could be next in line for a big money move away next summer.

With Arsenal, Liverpool, Leicester City, Roma and Inter Milan reportedly scouring for his gifted services in the past, this report will provide brief overview of his career to date, and a detailed analysis showing just why he is so highly coveted in Europe.

 

Who is Dominik Szoboszlai? 

Born in Székesfehérvár, Hungary. Szoboszlai’s first career steps came in the form of the youth team of local outfit Videoton, now referred to as Fehérvár FC. Further youth stints came at Főnix-GOLD, Újpest and MTK Budapest, with the midfielder’s performances at the latter catching the eye of a well-renowned and much acclaimed academy of RB Salzburg.

The Hungarian international’s move subsequently came at the Salzburg feeder team Liefering. He made his debut for the outfit against Kapfenberg in the 2017/18 campaign. Szoboszlai then registered his first goal in August 2017 against FC BW Linz. Just under a year later, he was rewarded with first professional bow for RB Salzburg in May 2018, against Austria Wien, coming on as a second-half substitute for Enock Mwepu. His first goal for Salzburg came in a Austrian cup 6-0 triumph.

Since then, the talented midfielder has established himself as a first team regular, a vital cog in well oiled, fascinatingly drilled Jesse Marsch team. Szoboszlai also became a regular feature in their Champions League campaign last season, playing some scintilating stuff causing problems for Liverpool in both their group ties and also against Italian giants Napoli. He scored his first Champions League goal against Genk in a thrilling 6-2 spectacle.

What’s Szoboszlai’s style of play? 

The 20-year-old may not have scored in both ties against Liverpool last year, but it was his performance at Anfield that caught the eye of many, providing an assist on the night and also playing a key role in Erling Haaland’s equalizer.

Very few players in the opposition side have stood out at Anfield in the past year or so but Szoboszlai shone his bright light on arguably the grandest stadium in Champions League history. The Hungarian constantly wreaked havoc on Liverpool’s back-line with his constant running, carving them open with his quick fire and delicate passing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSYR44HpAp8

What’s so pivotal to his game is his dribbling, constantly breaking the lines of play to transition into attack and carry his side forward. RB Salzburg are a side well drilled in the art of fast-paced attacking football and Szoboszlai is in fact the quarter-back who keeps things ticking over. Also, when lining up on the left, he constantly roams inside to the central positions constantly threading through balls to his forwards between the right-back and centre-back and also dissecting deep blocks and high defensive lines.

Szoboszlai is a player blessed in performing spectacular actions when breaking down any type of defences. His nimble footwork and trickery means defenders just don’t know what he’ll do next whether its dribble past his marker to form a decisive pass into his forwards. It’s that unpredictability in his game that sets him apart from his teammates. His actions around the final third are so effective, that his teammates too, are surprised by his passes or pieces of skill to breach tight defences.

His first thought isn’t to break into the penalty area, but to linger outside it, in the half-spaces or centrally, his remarkable trickery and footwork means well capable of getting by one or two markers and feeding the forwards or even operate in tight spaces and beat the oppositions press.

He’s very much a creative force, rather than a goalscorer. Szoboszlai averaged around 0.56 assists last season and played close to 2 key passes per game. He’s also a very good dead-ball specialist. If we was to compare to one player in the Premier League, it would arguably be Kevin De Bruyne, because of their ruthless streak when creating in the final third, and also dictating play from deep if needed.

Szoboszlai stands at 6’1 which is remarkably tall for a creative player, but that is a strength for him rather than a weakness. He may not be physically strong like most midfielders, but he sure knows to use his body to protect the ball and shield off his markers. It’s that trait coupled with his trickery and skill on the ball allowing him the ease and comfort in which to dribble past his markers.

Erling Haaland was RB Salzburg’s breakout star in last year’s Champions League group stage, and it looks like Dominik Szoboszlai is taking that crown this year.

€25m release clause, by the way.

— Top Bins Talk (@TopBinsTalk) October 27, 2020

The Hungarian has started off the current campaign like he ended the last, and in the past 22 games, he’s contributed 13 goals and 18 assists as well as scoring five times in all competitions this season for both club and country. If the talented midfielder carries on in such rich vein of form, then there’s no reason why he can’t be linked with a January move away like his former teammates Erling Haaland and Takumi Minamino.

Is he ready to make the step-up?

Dominik Szoboszlai shows such remarkable technique in his game, though one area he needs work on is that at times, he tends to try and do too much whether its dribble one too many plays then lose the ball in vital instances.

He can often miss the right moments to release the ball when an opportunity arises, regularly trying to take all the glory rather than share it with his teammates, but that’s understandable considering he’s still in his youth, with some refinement, there’s no reason why he can’t match the heights of Kevin De Bruyne in the near future.

Despite all this, the Hungarian is a remarkably gifted young midfielder, but at times last season, he found himself on the cusp of Jesse Marsch’s team. Now he’s one of the key men as Salzburg plan another assualt domestically and in Europe. Szoboszlai has been shortlisted for the 2020 Golden Boy award, and his spectacular showings and abilities warrants such recognition.

Reported interests from clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal and AC Milan in the past does indeed show that Szoboszlai is highly coveted and rightly so, he holds the potential to be one of the best player he’s country has ever seen, also holding the capabilities to be one of the brightest midfielders in Europe.

Two goals in two Champions League appearances this season for Salzburg's young star Dominik Szoboszlai.

And when he hits them, they stay hit 🚀 pic.twitter.com/f2VBWc3MHx

— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) October 27, 2020

It’ll be intriguing to see who he decides to play at next, preferably a side that will out spend a lot of time on furthering his development and honing on his talents. Dominik Szoboszlai holds an abundance of it.

Controversially dubbed ‘Paul Pogba without the baggage’ by Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol back in January, LOSC Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare is reportedly attracting a lot of interest from around Europe with the likes AC Milan, Napoli and Inter Milan all looking to secure his signature this summer.

Ligue 1’s premature ending due to the coronavirus pandemic is believed to have placed some financial constraints on Lille, and they may be forced this summer to sell their best stars to raise cash. Soumare was subject to much interest in the January window, and would have joined Newcastle had he not chosen to remain at the Stade Pierre Mauroy for the rest of the campaign.

It was indeed a campaign to forget, with the midfielder losing his place in the team, only featuring in a handful of games before the seasons cancellation.

Soumare will most likely become subject of much bids and interest during the rest of the window, with Lille determined to offload him.

This scout report will provide a brief report of his emergence on the scene, his progress at Lille and what he could offer potential employers.

 

Who is Boubakary Soumare? 

Born in the northern suburbs of Paris, Soumare joined the Paris Saint-Germain academy at the age of 12-years-old, showing such incredible in a box-to-box role in midfield.

However, due to a lack of opportunities at the French giants, he decided to further his development elsewhere, at LOSC Lille, joining them in 2017. It is a decision that Soumare can look back with much pride. This campaign has been his steady breakthrough, putting in some scintilating performances from midfield both in Ligue 1 and Champions League. In fact, Soumare has emerged as a key component in Lille’s rise to prominence over the past couple years.

After his failed move in January, he’s only played just once since then, though his quality has been there for all to see even before the January window. His drop in form and game time certainly won’t stop clubs circulating for his signature in the near future. It’s no fluke that the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are all wanting to secure his services.

 

So why is Soumare attracting so much interest? What’s his style? 

If you need any examples or exhibitions on what constitutes a ‘box-to-box midfielder’ then Boubakary Soumare is indeed the man to give you the knowledge needed. Soumare is a dominant, powerful, pacey and tricky midfielder to deal with because of his non-stop running, energy and hard work.

With a surprising yard of pace, Soumare’s 6’2 frame means he’s able to escape aggressive pressure with ease and also allows him the ability to dribble up the pitch to relieve his team of attacking pressure or to inspirationally drive up the pitch in search of a goal. It’s no surprise he’s been compared to Paul Pogba and Yaya Toure, due to his lean frame, and abilities on the ball. In the Champions League last season, he successfully completed 2.41 dribbles per 90 minutes, whereas in Ligue 1, he completed 1.41 dribbles.

When Soumare’s in space to instigate play after breaking free from pressure, he’s very able to utilise his incredible awareness to distribute the ball accurately to his team-mates who are in dangerous positions in the attacking third. It’s why he became so integral to most of Lille’s attacking play. He’s made 1.56 passes that leads to shots per90 in Ligue 1, 1.90 in the Champions League.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ng2F-Yv2_Q

In terms of positioning, Soumare almost exclusively lined up as a defensive midfielder for most of last season. One who is well-versed in breaking up play, screening in front of the back four and also consumately distributing to players in more dangerous positions. Boubakary Soumare offers all those characteristics. He averaged 0.6 key passes per game in Ligue 1 largely down to his deep-positioning but in all fairness to him, he’s required to be more disciplined and risk-free in his passing, attempting 57.4 per game and his success rate in this area is very impressive, which reads at 89.8%.

He also averaged 1.9 long balls per game which means he’s not shy of attempting to find his teammates with a raking pass. Soumare also attempted 14.5 final third passes, so even though, he’s required to be disciplined with his distribution, he’s still attempting to become effective when building attacks.

In terms of breaking up play, as he’s required to do, he won 1.26 tackles per 90 in Ligue 1 and 1.72 in Europe. His tall-frame as stated previous, means he’s able to dominant his opponents, and also pressure them in order to win the ball back quickly. Per90 in Ligue 1, he successfully applied pressure 17.3 times which he successfully retrieves the ball 5.33 times per90. It’s stats such as these that allows him to fulfil a number of roles in the Lille midfield. Whether its a box-to-box role, deep-lying playmaker, a roaming playmaker or a ball-winning midfielder. He’s incredibly adept – in the right conditions of course – to become so efficient both in the attack and defence.

Boubakary Soumare is a ball-recovery machine, hoovering up attacks, starting attacks with his swift and direct passing or duelling an opponent for the ball. He won possession 4.9 times in the middle third, per90 in Ligue 1. Though, his stand-out performance this season, came against Chelsea in the Champions League game in December. He was an absolute nuisance, a dominant presence, recovering the ball an astonishing 16 times.

 

Could he make a name for himself in the English top-flight? 

Without a shadow of a doubt. Boubakary Soumare certainly holds all the characteristics and tools to thrive in the Premier League. In an era, where box-to-box midfielders are pivotal to most elite teams in Europe, Soumare’s tall and lean build allows him to thrive in such conditions.

Midfielders are required to be not only dominant in possession but also combative when breaking up play and winning the ball-back quickly, Soumare exhibits all those traits. However, he’s the sort of player who needs the players around him to complement his abilities, he can’t do everything himself, Soumare isn’t that type of player. He’s incredibly effective in a well-oiled machine, as he’s constantly shown in the past year or so in a Lille team that is improving with every passing year.

The midfielder needs to get back to his best football, and its clear Lille do not want to keep him any longer.

Soumare is a player who would provide incredible solidity and a lot of mettle to a midfield, that’s why such elite clubs in Europe are after him. He’s not just a top box-to-box player, but holds all the makings to join an elite group of defensive midfielders in Europe too.

Tottenham’s new addition Sergio Reguilon has quickly established himself as one of Europe’ most consistent performers last campaign.

In what’s was a strong showing by Sevilla in La Liga, and winning yet another Europa League trophy at the expense of Inter Milan, Reguillon proved himself to be one of Julen Lopetegui’s key components within a hugely talented squad.

Now, the question is can Sergio Reguilon translate the scintilating form from last season into the Premier League under Jose Mourinho at Tottenham Hotspur?

Tottenham confirmed the signing of left-back Sergio Reguilon from Real Madrid on a five-year deal, for a fee which could rise to £32m. Reguilon, who will wear the number three shirt, travelled to London on a private jet owned by Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy on Friday morning, alongside Gareth Bale.

Reguilon, 23, was named the best left-back in La Liga for his performances last season while on loan at Sevilla.

But how did Reguilon impress last season? And how will he improve Jose Mourinho’s side?

This scout report will provide analysis of Reguillon’s performances and growth in the Sevilla side as well as a brief overview of how he’s quickly emerged on the scene.

Who is Sergio Reguilón?

Born in Madrid, Spain, Reguilon joined Madrid’s youth setup at the age of eight. He was loaned to Segunda Division B side UD Logrones for the 2015/16 campaign.

Reguilón made his senior debut on 23 August 2015, playing the last seven minutes in a 3–0 home win against SD Compostela. The following January 2016, after being sparingly used, he returned to Los Blancos and was assigned to the reserves in the third division.

He then returned to Logrones the next season, and quickly emerged as an undisputed starter at the club, scoring eight goals in the process, including four past Bilbao Athletic in October 2016 in a 5-3 home win. Upon his return to Real Madrid Castilla, he was first choice under Santiago Solari, renewing his contract in May 2018. The following season is where he quickly emerged in the first team setup, promoted by his present coach at Sevilla, Julen Lopetegui.

Sergio Reguilon’s emergence on the scene came as a real surprise. The greater shock, however, was how he quickly established himself in the Real Madrid first team picture. Displaying an impressive level of maturity and assurance for a young full-back and did not seem intimidated by the more senior players in his position, nor the high status of the club, in the slightest.

Instead, he got his head down, got focused offering such great levels of professionalism and effort while Marcelo was working through his difficult poor form. While still raw, as expected, the sheer level of application and willingness to learn allowed him to look right at home. This should hold Reguillon in decent stead as he continues to prove himself at the top level, and that he did while at Sevilla.

September also saw him make his competitive international for Spain in a 4-0 win over Ukraine, in which he provided the assist for Ansu Fati’s spectacular first international goal.

How did Reguilón impress last season?

Reguilón’s success last campaign was built upon three key characteristics: his hard-work, determination and application. You can even throw in his huge levels of commitment. These characteristics are perfectly reflected in the way in which he performed for Lopetegui.

He’s not afraid to try and be heard, he’s a marauding full-back, constantly running up and down to be an influential force down the left-hand side, if you need any indication as to the kind of ability he holds just watch his goal against Roma in the Europa League round of 16 tie in August. Single-handedly ran through the entire Roma back-line to net a fantastic goal.

Reguilon is also not afraid to get stuck in if he has to. It’s why he quickly emerged on the scene at Real Madrid, despite his tender age. His characteristics and willingness on the pitch is of an experienced level not one still trying to figure out his place early in their career.

While the modern full-backs are skilful and attack-minded, Reguilón looks to play to his own strengths – his hard work, application, discipline and solid presence. Though, as the season progressed, Reguilón exerted the ability of being both a skilful and hard-working full-back blended into one. The complete kind.

While winning 1.18 tackles per 90 in La Liga, he also performed 3.05 passes into the final third showing his thrilling blend of both attacking and defensive qualities.

When Sevilla were in possession, he made expertly sure that he’s offering an outlet on the left-hand side, and when he does have possession, he’s more than capable of becoming decisive with it.

As well as his 4 assists in La Liga last season, he also successfully completed 1.47 dribbles per 90, he’s not afraid to take on his man, get to the byline and provide crosses for his forwards. He’s such a willing full-back. Reguilón’s desire to perform, impress and be an influence in the final-third is one of the reasons why Sevilla were such a potent force last season. After 13 games of the 2019/20 La Liga season, no defender had more touches inside the opposition box than Sergio Reguilon (32).

Reguilón also performed 2.30 shot creating actions per 90, highlighting his influence and impact within the attacking third of the pitch. The freedom and license to maraud up the pitch provided by Lopetegui aided his attacking development considerably. That’s not to say, he can’t perform in defence when needed. He’s an excellent defender. 2.04 tackles won per 90, 1.36 interceptions and also 3.58 successful pressures to his opponent (FBref.com). As well as a willing attacker, he’s also a very willing defender.

Sometimes, that can unfortunately be his downfall. He records 2 fouls per game in La Liga and received 8 yellow cards. With a bit of work on his discipline and committing fouls, he can really avoid potentially picking up a needless red card.

The 22-year-old excels when on the back foot as he man-marks adeptly, and is more-often-than-not aware of spaces behind him. There, Reguilón looks to shut down any potential danger and is quick to close down opponents – this has also been the case when he has been asked to form part of a high press in wide areas, pressuring wingers and full-backs and forcing them to retreat toward their own goal.

Forecast for the Future?

Sergio Reguilón holds such a massive future in his hands. As stated previous, his hard-work, willingness, application and commitment are key features in his game, and such characteristics can only stand him in good stead for the future.

Not making the grade at Real Madrid won’t really deem him a failure, just look at Achraf Hakimi who was on loan at Dortmund the past year and is now on his way to Italian giants Inter Milan, a club where he will surely thrive under the tutelage of Antonio Conte.

Sergio Reguilon has got his move.

Tottenham may have potentially added a steel to their squad in Sergio Reguillon. The Spaniard offers Mourinho what he’s always crying out for in his players, the heart, the character and the sheer will to win. Reguillon so far has acquired all those attributes throughout his career and its the reason he is on course to enjoy a fruitful spell at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

A statement signing by Jose Mourinho.