Top Young Left-Footed Centre Backs, 2019-20

Recently, there's been a lot of talk and interest around young left-footed centre backs. They seem to be precious, and top clubs like Manchester United have been strongly linked with them. 🔗🔁

So, I analysed all left-footed centre backs aged 27 or under, primarily using Wyscout, FBref/StatsBomb and watching a few videos. 🔢🎥

Gabriel (of Lille) and Benoit Badiashile (of AS Monaco), both who are unsurprisingly linked with United and Arsenal, stood out to me.

I've compared them using a radar chart, taking relevant metrics with data obtained from Wyscout and FBref/StatsBomb. 📊

All the metrics other than PAdj Interceptions, which is adjusted per 30 minutes of opposition possession, are per 90 minutes. Also, all numbers are of successful attempts.

For the minimum and max limits on the radar data visualisation, I took the numbers near the 5th and 95th percentile of the Big 5 European League Centre Backs.

Signing either Gabriel or Badiashile would make sense for Man United as it seems they would complement Harry Maguire well, and United fans should be happy if they sign either of them.

My personal preference is Badiashile as he is pacey, seems to have a higher ceiling & is already pretty good having played all his matches before even turning 19-years-old. ⭐⏫


Another player who seems to have caught the eye and sparked interest among fans is Pau Torres.
I analysed him too and believe, unfortunately for excited fans, he's not a good fit for the Premier League.
He would find it tough to perform well and impress as he isn't aerially dominant, strong at duels or press-friendly as indicated by his stats.


P. S. Check out my football apparel business at midfieldmerchandise.com

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