With the English Premier League back in action, it brings with it a blend of speculation, anticipation, excitement, and drama.
As is customary, attention turns towards to expect the success or failure of deals like Kai Havertz, Jurrin Timber, André Onana, Mason Mount, Christopher Nkunku, Alexis Mac Allister, and Mateo Kovačić, deals that have captured the widespread eyes.
However, our focus in this tactical analysis, as a scout report, delves into five prominent deals that might not command the same grandeur in the eyes of the media and the public yet possess the potential to exert significant technical and tactical influence on their new teams’ tactics.
These deals involve Calvin Bassey, Pau Torres, Moussa Diaby, Arnaut Danjuma, and Zeki Amdouni forming the nucleus of our analysis.
Calvin Bassey to Fulham
In just a year at Ajax, a period marked by the team’s playstyle upheaval following Erik Ten Hag’s departure, Calvin Bassey emerged as a standout.
His versatility and efficiency within contemporary tactics captured the interest of Brighton, although it was Fulham who ultimately secured his services.
Fulham had a fantastic season, matching the senior team’s performance.
Guided by Marco Silva, they exhibited a strikingly impressive offensive approach.
“We knew what type of player we were signing and the skills he has “, Silva told the club’s official website.
Calvin Bassey Radar
In the possession part (compared to the centre-backs in most top European leagues), Bassey’s prowess shines brightly with the ability to orchestrate the play from the deep.
His 95.6 percentile rank for passes received per 90 depicts his involvement in the team’s passing sequences.
In contrast, his 84.9 percentile rank in progressive passes per 90 indicates his knack for driving the ball forward, initiating the build-up phase.
The 78.07 percentile rank in dangerous passes per 90 highlights his audacity to unlock stubborn defences and break the lines.
Bassey’s accuracy is equally remarkable, with a 73.6 accurate passes percentile rank reflecting his technical finesse in maintaining possession.
His 95.4 percentile rank in passes per 90 minutes underscores his consistent engagement in the play, cementing his role as a linchpin in Ajax’s possession-based and Fulham’s now.
Turning our attention to the defending sector, Bassey’s defensive qualities emerge as a solid foundation as a well-rounded modern and dynamic centre-back.
His positioning is not the best, with a 28.4 percentile rank, but that’s not taking into account the fact he was playing for Ajax, where he’ll naturally make fewer defensive actions.
The Nigerian’s difficulty in the Premier League will be the aerial duels, as he is far from his potential with the ball and does not look very distinguished.
He has a high percentile rank in defensive duels won, which underscores his proficiency in one-on-one defensive scenarios.
His 85.8 rank in defensive duels per 90 reflects his constant vigilance and activity, fortifying Fulham’s defensive line.
Bassey, unlike most centre-backs, in the attacking section, displays an impressive hunger for goals and ball skills.
He is also capable of playing as a left-back.
His 83.6 rank in opponent penalty area touches per 90 signifies his presence in potentially harmful positions, ready to pounce on opportunities.
With a 96.7 percentile rank for dribbles per 90, Bassey possesses the confidence to take on opponents head-on, driving the ball past challenges and advancing on the field.
The 74.2 percentile rank in expected goal contributions per 90 and 82.4 in goal contributions per 90 confirms his tangible impact in creating or scoring those goals.
Tactically, Calvin Bassey’s flexibility, agility, pace, and adaptability make him an excellent fit for the present squad.
His attributes promise to extend the team’s ball-holding capabilities and overall possession.
Notably, he adds exceptional depth to both the centre-back and left-back positions.
This becomes particularly significant, as demonstrated last season when Marco Silva frequently deployed midfielders in defensive roles due to absent defenders.
Calvin Bassey Pass Map
Calvin Bassey’s contributions with the ball span every phase, commencing from the build-up phase.
He can expertly thread passes between opposition lines and drive the ball forward with excellent comfort in Fulham’s 3-1-3-3 in-possession structure.
While his proficiency in long-ball situations may be somewhat limited without the ball, he shines as a proactive defender within the 4-2-3-1 defensive block.
His willingness to take calculated risks, proactive playing style, and keen anticipation set him apart.
It’s plausible that his impressive performances in the English Premier League could attract interest from top-tier clubs in a relatively short span.
Pau Torres to Aston Villa
After an extended period in Spain, coupled with ongoing speculations linking him to clubs like Manchester United and others, the Spanish left centre-back Pau Torres has ultimately become a part of Unai Emery’s ambitious project at Aston Villa.
Under this administration, Villa has transformed into a promising team marked by significant investments, one of which is Unai Emery himself.
Since his arrival, the team has embraced a straightforward style of football, a trajectory set to further evolve with the inclusion of the Spanish defender.
Unai Emery noted, “He is going to help us in the build-up.
We were playing progressively better with our goalkeeper and our centre-backs.
Now, it is important for me to improve the small details.
By adding one player like Pau Torres, I think we can have more options.”
“You will be amazed; he is a very good centre-back, with and without the ball.” — Santi Cazorla on Pau Torres.
Pau Torres Radar
Compared to the centre-backs in the top leagues, Pau Torres’ defensive prowess is akin to a solid.
Over the years of his presence in La Liga, Torres has always been distinguished by his remarkable ability to position and defensive, which he fully shows.
With a 63.45 positioning rating, he showcases his ability to read the play and position himself effectively to thwart opposing attacks.
In terms of defending duels, Torres’ relatively high percentage of duels won underscores his capability in one-on-one situations in defensive confrontations, preventing opponents from making advances.
Pau Torres stands out as a conductor in possession, orchestrating play from the heart of the pitch.
His 79.5 percentile rank in passes received per 90 minutes signifies his active involvement in receiving the ball and initiating build-ups.
With a 98.4 percentile rank in progressive passes per 90, Torres illustrates his ability to push the team forward, igniting attacks with incisive distribution.
Torres’ 89.17 percentile rank in dangerous passes per 90 emphasises his courage to penetrate opposing defences, creating openings for his teammates.
While his 44.1 percentile rank in % of accurate passes rate might suggest room for improvement.
His 79.5 percentile rank in passes per 90 further cements his role as a deep dispute, directing the flow of the game from the heart of the action.
Moving into the attacking segment, Pau Torres demonstrates some of the versatility mindset during difficult moments in a 1 vs 1 situation with an impressive 92.3 percentile rank in dribbles per 90, Torres possesses the skill and confidence to take on opponents, potentially shifting the momentum in his team’s favour.
Tactically, as highlighted by Unai Emery, Torres is expected to exert a significant influence on the team, particularly in possession, a facet where he stands out compared to Mings.
His presence will add depth to the squad alongside Ezri Konsa, Mings, and Diego Carlos.
During possession phases, Aston Villa adheres to a 3-2-2-3 box-midfield configuration.
Emery often plays with a centre-back as a fullback to enter the depth to create the three-man backline or even goes straight with a 3-1-4-2 shape.
This strategic setup grants Torres the requisite space to execute progressive passes, aligning with his proficiency in modern possession-based systems.
Pau Torres Progressive Passes
Without the ball, despite his height, Torres isn’t renowned for his prowess in aerial duels.
Instead, his strengths lie in marking and pressing, qualities previously acknowledged by Luis Enrique.
Although he may face problems due to his lack of agility (similar to Maguire), this could occur during transitions or if Emery decides to rely on a mid-block with a high line, as he did last season.
Moussa Diaby to Aston Villa
Aston Villa’s successful buy of Moussa Diaby from Bayer Leverkusen signifies a significant coup, aligning perfectly with the French winger’s direct playing style.
Diaby brings forth a collection of highly impressive attributes that have garnered attention from top clubs.
Thus, his decision to join Aston Villa holds substantial significance in shaping the team according to Emery’s desired framework of playing a direct attacking ball.
Moussa Diaby Radar
In the Attacking area, Diaby’s influence is reminiscent of an artisan adding exquisite toppings to a pizza.
His 82.2 percentile rank in opponent penalty area touches per 90 minutes showcases his presence in crucial scoring zones, often placing him in prime positions to capitalise on chances.
With a 52.6 percentile rank in dribbles per 90, Diaby’s dribbling skills add a touch of flair to his attacking play, allowing him to navigate through tight spaces and create opportunities.
Diaby’s 86.9 percentile rank in shots per 90 reflect his offensive ambition, indicating his eagerness to unleash strikes on goal and contribute to his team’s scoring efforts.
The expected goal contribution per 90 percentile rank stands at an impressive 85.15, highlighting Diaby’s calculated involvement in generating potential goals.
His 77.75 percentile rank in goal contributions per 90 further emphasises his ability to impact the scoreline directly, whether through goals or assists.
Tactically, Emery’s meticulous setup is designed to exploit the opposition’s vulnerabilities by compressing their defensive lines and creating openings both centrally and out wide.
By integrating Diaby, who has a super speed that makes him deadly in rapid transitions.
Moussa Diaby Winger Actions
His direct approach in the final third and his judicious timing to release the fullback for advanced positions while cutting inside to exploit spaces between opponents showcases his versatility.
Furthermore, his adeptness at maintaining a presence on the wing to initiate attacks or contribute goals through adept dribbling and finesse amplifies his value as a fundamental asset in Unai Emery’s strategy.
Moussa Diaby Heat Map
Arnaut Danjuma to Everton
“Second time lucky,” — Arnaut Danjuma after completing his loan to Everton.
Finally, Arnaut Danjuma joined Everton after he was close last summer before Tottenham hijacked the deal.
After a disappointing spell in London, Danjuma has found a new home with Sean Dyche.
Appraising Danjuma’s performance must consider the limited opportunities he received at Tottenham, where Son and Kane held prominent roles.
Forming a fair judgment based on his constrained playing time would be unjust.
Notably, Danjuma’s brilliance shone more vividly at Villarreal the preceding year.
With this context in mind, let’s delve into a detailed analysis of Danjuma’s final season at Villarreal below.
Arnaut Danjuma Radar
In the Attacking segment, Danjuma’s influence mirrors a chef adding exquisite flavours to a dish.
His 95.7 percentile rank in opponent penalty area touches per 90 signifies his presence in the most crucial zones, positioning himself for potential goal-scoring opportunities, especially during the transitions.
With a 96 percentile rank in dribbles per 90, Danjuma’s dribbling skills add a dash of flair, allowing him to navigate past defenders and create gaps.
Danjuma’s 93.9 percentile rank in shots per 90 reflects his attacking intent and willingness to unleash strikes.
The expected goal contribution per 90 percentile rank stands at an enticing 79.45, underscoring Danjuma’s calculated involvement in generating potential goals.
His 85.05 percentile rank in goal contributions per 90 further accentuates his impact, whether through finding the back of the net or providing crucial assists.
Danjuma’s prowess in possession resembles a skilled chef orchestrating the perfect dish.
His 78.7 percentile rank in passes received per 90 minutes highlights his active involvement in maintaining ball circulation and linking play.
With a 78.5 percentile rank in progressive passes per 90, Danjuma showcases his ability to drive the team forward with incisive distribution, making him a key player in building attacking movements.
His passing accuracy percentage percentile rank is a commendable 72.0, reflecting his technical finesse in sustaining possession for his team.
A percentile rank of 57.7 in passes per 90 demonstrates his commitment to the style.
Danjuma’s defensive contributions are suitable as a winger or a striker.
In terms of defending duels, Danjuma’s remarkable percentile rank of 97.8 wins per 90 minutes highlights his efficiency in one-on-one defensive situations, solidifying his role in regaining possession.
Tactically, Danjuma’s seamless integration into Sean Dyche’s 4-5-1 as a left winger or 4-4-2 alongside the target-man Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Danjuma’s role as the mobile striker complements the team’s offensive dynamics.
Calvert-Lewin’s adeptness at receiving long passes pairs effectively with Danjuma’s skill in breaching defensive lines.
Arnaut Danjuma Ball Progression
“I’ve played 4-3-3 as a left-winger.
I succeeded with Emery in a 4-4-2 system where we played with two strikers, and I was on the left side.
We played 4-3-3, where I was the striker myself as well.
So it’s not only beating players and running past them on one particular side of the pitch” Danjuma has the potential to shift the course of a match is undeniable.
Zeki Amdouni to Burnley
Burnley under Vincent Kompany after a surprising promotion bring in great talent from Switzerland.
Kompany was the critical factor in Zeki Amdouni’s decision to move to Burnley.
The 22-year-old striker, a standout with a notable feat of topping the scoring charts in the Europa Conference League last season with seven goals, has committed to a substantial five-year contract.
Amdouni’s impressive record boasts 22 destinations across 52 appearances in the previous season.
“Zeki is such a goal threat” — Vincent Kompany.
Zeki Amdouni Radar
Amdouni’s command over possession mirrors a skilled chef orchestrating a symphony of flavours.
With 98.8 passes received per 90 minutes, he demonstrates his commitment to maintaining ball circulation and offering his teammates multiple options.
The 91.5 progressive passes per 90 underline his ability to drive the team forward, instigating attacks and contributing to Burnley’s offensive movements.
Amdouni’s 80.57 percentile rank in dangerous passes per 90 highlights his willingness to take calculated risks, attempting passes that can break down resilient defences.
His impressive 89.2 percentile rank in accurate passes rate underscores his technical proficiency in maintaining possession for his team.
With a percentile rank of 90 for passes per 90, Amdouni’s presence ensures a steady rhythm in Burnley’s possession-oriented.
In the attacking third, Amdouni’s influence as an attacking midfielder or a striker is akin to an artisan adding intricate toppings to a culinary masterpiece.
His 55.4 percentile rank in opponent penalty area touches per 90 minutes signifies his strategic positioning in areas that matter most to score or create.
With a percentile rank of 90.6 dribbles per 90, Amdouni’s skilful dribbling adds flair, enabling him to manoeuvre through tight spaces in between lines.
Amdouni’s percentile rank of 72.2 shots per 90 reflect his attacking intent, highlighting his eagerness to contribute to Burnley’s goal-scoring attempts.
The Expected Goal Contribution per 90 stands at an enticing percentile rank of 81.95, Highlighting Amdouni’s strategic contribution to creating possible scoring opportunities.
His percentile rank of 71.5 goal contribution per 90 further emphasises his impact.
Amdouni’s defensive efforts, while not in possession of the ball, create a strong base for a well-executed game plan, offering both structure and support.
With a positioning percentile rank of 72.65, Amdouni demonstrates his tactical awareness, positioning himself adeptly to disrupt opposing attacks from a higher position.
His remarkable 75.8 percentile rank in aerial duels won as an attacking player shows his ability to challenge effectively in aerial battles.
Amdouni’s percentile rank of 81.7 in defending duels illustrates his efficiency in one-on-one defensive situations, solidifying his role as a crucial defensive asset and emphasising his willingness to engage and regain possession for Burnley actively.
Zeki Amdouni Pass map
Tactically, Amdouni’s astute intelligence, proficient pressing skills, and impactful contributions in attack, marked by both effectiveness and diversity, harmonise perfectly with Burnley under Vincent Kompany.
Summary
In summary, these lesser-discussed transfers possess the potential to significantly influence their teams’ tactics and contribute to their success in this Premier League season.
Indeed, while numerous other players and deals deserve attention, some of our spotlights are on these five individuals to gauge whether they fulfil the anticipated impact on their respective teams.
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