Why signing Julian Weigl could be a shrewd move for Manchester City
According to reports in Daily Star, Manchester City have sent their scouts to spy on German midfielder Julian Weigl from Borussia Dortmund. Manager Pep Guardiola seems to have shown interest in the player as Premier League champions still vie for a defensive midfielder in this transfer window (h/t Daily Star).
After the departure of Yaya Toure at the end of last season, City are now down to one first-team defensive midfielder in the squad. They need someone to back Fernandinho up as the Brazilian is getting no younger at the age of 33. Hence, spending on a young but talented prospect will be a good piece of business by the club.
Here’s why Weigl could be a great signing for Manchester City, both for short and long-term purposes:
Player Analysis – Julian Weigl
Age – 22
Main Position – Defensive Midfielder
Weigl is one of those prodigious young talents who burst onto the big stage in a flash. His impeccable blend of work-rate, passing ability and defensive awareness is something the senior players would be proud of. The German has taken his place in the Dortmund team and performed consistently in the defensive midfield position.
The 22-year-old’s passing from deeper areas is accurate at a rate of 86.2% with a key pass average of 0.3 per game. He likes to tackle and break up the opposition attacking build-up, doing them at an average of 2.8 per game, which is an incredible number.
Weigl doesn’t shy away from stepping in different areas of the pitch to make vital interceptions, doing so at an average of 1.4. His height (186cm) allows him to win aerial duels at the rate of 1.4 and act as a genuine threat from set-pieces.
Manchester City and Pep Guardiola require a midfielder of his calibre since he can do multiple tasks. However, most importantly, his ability to shield the back line from counter-attacking situations and defensive contribution should allow him to seamlessly fit Guardiola’s system.
Verdict
City’s defence of the Premier League and Guardiola’s playing system depends on how he can protect his possession. For that reason, a high-quality defensive midfielder is needed to deputize for Fernandinho during the season. Getting Weigl will fill that void upon requirement and the German is young enough to further develop at Etihad Stadium and become one of the best in the game.
Stats Courtesy – Who Scored.com