Greek football’s biggest defensive contingent, the leader of the Wolfsburg pack that drowned into relegation now has a new role to function under custodian Gasperini at AS Roma
PLAYER PROFILE BREAKDOWN
Positioned as a LCB in a back 3/4, he’s comfortable as a wide CB screening the job as an aggressive + onrushing defender. The positioning seeks out the license to step forward to play punchy vertical passes and also regain possession – setting the tempo off the game.
Possesses a wiry, strong and upright stance that absorbs contact without losing agility or balance, instantly promoting his effectiveness in his passing and duels. Rotates possession well with his ability to switch play through grounded/lofted diagonals.
Albeit refining his weaker right foot would see him bring in variety and composure in his reaching and distribution from vast angles. Additionally, he takes the role in progressive build up very highly – being calculative and not overly ambitious occasionally would help him.
The box defending metrics of aerially sweeping out challenges, forcing clearances and putting his body on line is refined. Ratio of jumping his line and sitting his line showcases his defensive anticipation. Furthermore, he’s a set piece demon (4 goals from headers).
No nonsense approach OOP, always on the shoulders. What’s impressive about his defensive profile is the reading of the game; doesn’t hesitate stepping his line, cover ground, putting his body on the line to intercept play through sliding tackles.
Now to put it into Gasperini’s foundation at Roma, he’d have to slot into a high line that’s bound to be hit on the counter and over the top. This sees the Greek demonstrate his aerial prowess alongside his rapid recovery pace to track back and keep things tight in the defensive third.
All in all, this could turn out to be one of the best deals of the summer, additionally ending up becoming an absolute bargain. Expecting him to break straight into the starting lineup