Fulham’s Summer Signings Continue with Villarreal Defender Added To The Addition | OneFootball

Fulham’s Defensive Boost: Jorge Cuenca Joins from Villarreal

Fulham’s recent acquisition of Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal marks a significant step in bolstering their defensive lineup. As reported by The Athletic, the centre-back has signed a four-year contract, securing his stay at Craven Cottage until 2028, with an option for an additional year. Cuenca expressed his excitement about joining Fulham, stating, “I’m really, really happy. I’m so proud to be here. I’m so happy to be here and to play for Fulham.” The club’s rich history and iconic stadium played a significant role in his decision, as he added, “The club is an historical club and Craven Cottage is an historical stadium. I prefer Fulham because of the city, the club, obviously the historical stadium, and I want to play in the Premier League.”

Jorge Cuenca’s Journey and Role at Fulham

Cuenca’s journey to Fulham began with his move from Barcelona to Villarreal in 2020. During his time in Spain, he had loan stints at Almeria and Getafe, gaining valuable experience. In the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, Cuenca established himself as a regular starter at Villarreal, making 28 starts in all competitions last season. Fulham’s interest in Cuenca aligns with their strategy to strengthen their defence following the departures of Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea and Tim Ream’s potential move to MLS side Charlotte FC.

The Athletic’s Insights and Cuenca’s Potential Impact

According to The Athletic, Fulham’s move for Cuenca was a calculated effort to address the defensive gaps left by recent departures. The 24-year-old’s versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to Marco Silva’s squad, currently preparing for the upcoming season in Portugal. Fulham’s transfer activity this summer has been proactive, with Cuenca being the third signing after Ryan Sessegnon and Emile Smith Rowe.

Fulham’s Ambitions and Future Moves

Fulham’s transfer window activity indicates their ambition to compete at a higher level in the Premier League. The club’s recent £20 million bid for Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay suggests that further reinforcements are on the horizon. Cuenca’s arrival, coupled with the potential addition of McTominay, could significantly enhance Fulham’s prospects for the upcoming season.

Our View – EPL Index

The acquisition of Jorge Cuenca brings not only a youthful presence but also a wealth of experience from Spain’s top leagues. His statement, “I’m so happy to be here and to play for Fulham,” resonates with supporters who are eager to see fresh talent at Craven Cottage.

Cuenca’s signing feels like a crucial piece in Fulham’s defensive puzzle, especially after losing key players like Tosin Adarabioyo. The excitement is palpable as fans anticipate a more solid and organized backline. The potential arrival of Scott McTominay further amplifies the optimism, suggesting that Fulham is building a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.

However, some supporters might be sceptical about Cuenca’s ability to adapt quickly to the English game, given his limited exposure outside of Spain. The challenge of the Premier League is unlike any other, and while his technical skills are evident, the physical and fast-paced nature of English football will be a true test.

In conclusion, while there is a palpable sense of excitement around Fulham’s transfer activity, a cautious optimism remains. The club’s intentions are clear: to strengthen the squad and secure a stable position in the Premier League. Fans will be watching closely as the new season unfolds, hopeful that these signings can lead Fulham to a successful campaign.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Jorge Cuenca’s Performance Data: A Comprehensive Breakdown

As Fulham’s latest defensive acquisition, Jorge Cuenca brings an intriguing profile, as evidenced by his performance data and stats over the last 365 days, provided by Fbref. Cuenca, who played 2,328 minutes, demonstrates a well-rounded skill set, particularly excelling in possession and defensive metrics.

Defensive Prowess and Aerial Ability

Cuenca’s defensive statistics are notable, with his blocks and clearances standing out. His percentile ranks at 91 for non-penalty goals and 89 for clearances, indicating a high level of effectiveness in these crucial areas. His tackling and interception rate, marked at 32, suggests room for improvement in breaking up opposition play. Nonetheless, his aerial dominance is evident, with a 56% success rate in aerial duels, positioning him as a reliable option in set-piece situations.

Possession Metrics: A Modern Centre-Back

One of Cuenca’s standout attributes is his proficiency in possession. His 93% completion rate for progressive passes and his percentile rank of 74 for progressive carries highlight his comfort and confidence with the ball. His ability to initiate attacks from the back is further evidenced by his 43% percentile in shot-creating actions, making him a valuable asset in transition play. Cuenca’s adaptability to modern football’s demands is clear, as he frequently contributes to build-up play, a trait increasingly sought after in centre-backs.

Attacking Contributions and Potential Growth

While primarily a defender, Cuenca also shows potential in attacking contributions. His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) rank at 70, with a non-penalty expected assisted goals (xAG) of 55, indicating that he can occasionally find himself in goal-scoring positions. Though not his primary role, these stats underscore his potential versatility on the pitch.

In conclusion, Jorge Cuenca’s stats reveal a player with strong possession skills and defensive reliability. His presence in Fulham’s backline is expected to provide stability and flexibility. Credit to Fbref for the detailed statistical analysis, which offers a deeper insight into Cuenca’s potential impact.