Deep Dive on Barcelona Target Kaoru Mitoma | OneFootball

A Glittering Star on the South Coast

Emerging as a dazzling talent on the south coast of England, Kaoru Mitoma, the 26-year-old Brighton winger, has successfully entwined his destiny with an unassailable performance in the Premier League. With a staggering ability to destabilise defences, especially from his natural habitat on the left wing, Mitoma’s attributes have not only radiated through England but have subtly permeated through the strategic discussions in Barcelona’s war room. His precocious talent was particularly illuminated last season, and he has seamlessly perpetuated that into the current campaign, maintaining a consistently high level of performance.

Barcelona’s Left-Wing Quandary

Although the FC Barcelona team is peppered with talent, a gaping hole resides where Ansu Fati once prominently featured – the left wing. Since his departure, a paucity of forwards who possess the aptitude to dismantle defences from that particular flank has been evident. While Alejandro Balde has adopted that role, gallantly driving forward with audacious power, he is essentially a patch over a role that Mitoma, with his specific skill set, could comprehensively embroider. This Japanese winger offers an orthodox extremity; his expeditions down the left wing, wielding his dominant right foot, allow him to slice through, positioning himself with a pronounced goal threat.

Photo: IMAGO

Mitoma: A Multifaceted Gem

Mitoma is not merely a winger; he is a multifaceted attacking jewel. With his breakneck speed and mesmeric control, he can glide inside or outside of his marker, ensuring that his subsequent crosses or shots are equally unpredictable and hazardous. One of the key aspects that undoubtedly enchants the Barça technical staff is his completeness as a forward: deftly skillful, technically proficient, rapid, an accurate finisher, and surprisingly adept in aerial duels. His predilection to assault the opponent’s goal, particularly when a ball is cascading from the right, only embellishes his appeal further.

A Favourable Contractual Scenario

The skilful Japanese player was secured by Brighton for a mere four million euros from Kawasaki Frontale in 2021, following which he enjoyed a productive loan spell with Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise. His eventual transition to the English team in 2022 saw him explode onto the scene, netting 10 goals and providing 8 assists across 41 official matches, subsequently cementing his status as one of the luminaries of the team. Mitoma’s contract, which unwinds in 2025, proffers a tantalising opportunity: should he not renew, next summer he may metamorphose into a player Brighton could be amenable to dispatching.

Barcelona and Brighton: An Emerging Nexus

Barcelona’s historical and present links with Brighton are underscored by the loan of Ansu Fati. As waves of speculation undulate through the footballing world, one can’t help but muse over the prospect of Mitoma tracing Fati’s footsteps but in the opposite direction, exchanging the coastal breeze of Brighton for the Catalan sun. In an era where prudent financial decisions are paramount, Barcelona’s intrinsic need for a left-winger and Mitoma’s potential availability next summer intertwine in an intriguingly serendipitous manner.

Kaoru Mitoma’s Performance Metrics: A Deep Dive into Data

This analysis is based on the insightful data visualization provided by Fbref, with data sourced from Opta.

Mitoma’s data chart showcases his percentile rank against Attacking Midfielders and Wingers over a span of 3050 minutes in the last 365 days. This is a comprehensive insight into the player’s performance, segregated into three main aspects: Attacking, Possession, and Defending.

Attacking Metrics:

The standout metric for Mitoma in the attacking realm is his non-penalty goals, which are ranked at an impressive 72nd percentile. This is further complemented by his shot total and assists, indicating a player who is not just proficient at finding the back of the net but also creating opportunities for his teammates.

Possession Metrics:

In terms of possession, Mitoma shines brightly in progressive carries, ranking at the 93rd percentile. This suggests a player comfortable with the ball at his feet, making progressive movements up the field. Another noteworthy metric is his touches in the attacking penalty area, scoring a commendable 95th percentile, affirming his influence in the final third.

Defending Metrics:

While Mitoma is primarily recognised for his attacking prowess, his defending metrics shouldn’t be overlooked. He showcases a remarkable 80th percentile in interceptions, suggesting a keen sense of positioning and reading the game. His 82nd percentile in tackles further accentuates his contribution to the defensive aspects.

The Verdict

Kaoru Mitoma, based on these data metrics, emerges as a versatile player, adept both in attacking and defensive roles. With such stats, it’s evident why he is considered one of the best talents in football today.

Data metrics provide an objective lens to view a player’s performance, and in Mitoma’s case, the numbers certainly do justice to his on-field brilliance.