From Fofana to Wieffer: What the data says as Milan’s midfield pursuit continues

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·30 de junho de 2024

From Fofana to Wieffer: What the data says as Milan’s midfield pursuit continues

AC Milan have been linked with several defensive midfielders in the last few weeks, as this position appears to be one of the priorities this summer. However, which should the Rossoneri choose? Below, we take a look at some stats.

The Rossoneri conceded a whopping 49 goals in Serie A this past season, lacking a lot of balance above all in the midfield. With Ismael Bennacer out for half of the season, and mainly with attacking-minded players on the pitch, the defenders were often left alone.

Vídeos OneFootball

In recent weeks, the likes of Youssouf Fofana, Mats Wieffer and even Adrien Rabiot have been linked with a move to Milan. The Monaco man appears to be the main target, with the Rossoneri eyeing an €18m move, but the alternatives are there for a reason.

On his X account, Rohit Rajeev has taken a look at these targets along with a few more, making some key observations. Y-Axis (Offensive Actions, all per 90 min): Shot Creating Action + Passes into Penalty Area + Goal Creation actions. X-Axis (Defensive Actions): Tackles Won + Interceptions.

Key observations

In terms of defensive actions, Florentino Luis (Benfica) is way ahead of the others.
Tijjani Reijnders, in terms of offensive actions, tops the list and this reinforces the idea that he needs to be played further up the pitch.
Mats Wieffer (Feyenoord) combines both defensive actions and offensive actions really well. He seems to be an ideal candidate, especially since he’s used to intense pressing.
Sofyan Amrabaat (Fiorentina) is extremely underwhelming given that La Viola are expected to request €30m for him.
Yacine Adli has huge potential.
Youssouf Fofana (Monaco) has more attacking actions than defensive ones, which perhaps suggests that he’s more of a No.8 than a No.6.
The former Bologna player Jerdy Schouten and Nottingham’s Ibrahim Sangare excel in defensive actions, which suggests they could be good options.

OBSERVATIONS · In terms of Defensive Actions Florentino Luis of Benfica is clear of the pack. · Reijnders in terms of offensive actions tops the list which reinforces my belief that he is not a DM and needs to be pushed forward more · Wieffer combines both defensive actions and… https://t.co/evnXifKXYH
– domingo, 30 de junho de 2024