Over the years, Barcelona have always valued smart, tactical players over sheer physical power. However, as we head into the summer of 2024, it looks like the team from Catalonia might be changing its approach, especially in their search for a new defensive midfielder.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, while Barcelona still values football intelligence, they are also looking for someone who is physically strong, which is why Amadou Onana is high on their wishlist.
Even though Belgium were knocked out of the Euros, Onana showed exactly why Barcelona is interested in him. In the match against France, the Everton midfielder put on an impressive performance, effectively stopping Kylian Mbappe.
Why Onana could be perfect for Barcelona
The outlet mentions that Barcelona are not just looking for good footballers; they also need strength and power to compete in modern football, which demands a lot of physicality.
Onana showed he has both the physicality and the tactical intelligence needed at the highest level. He provided excellent defensive support to his teammate, Timothy Castagne, every time Mbappe got the ball or when Theo Hernandez made a run down the wing.
Onana’s presence was so commanding that it made life difficult for Mbappe. Every time Mbappe tried to get past his opponents, Onana was there to stop him.
Amadou Onana was cool and composed on the ball against France. (Photo by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images)
Furthermore, the midfielder also showed composure when in possession of the ball, opting for simple and safe passes with a 92% success rate. In duels, he was excellent, losing only one and never being dribbled past.
Barcelona are confused
Currently, Barcelona are deciding between Onana and Mikel Merino, who is also playing in the Euros with Spain, though in a less prominent role. Onana is more popular and likely preferred, but signing him might be difficult.
This is because Manchester United and Bayern Munich are also…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/reason-why-barcelona-are-chasing-man-united-target-for-the-pivot-position-report/
Author : Ash Reyna
Publish date : 2024-07-02 08:04:25
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