Tag: Player Analysis

How I analyze fullbacks for pro clubs with Role Continuity

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Data Analysis, Fullback, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Wing-Back

In 2022, I established my 'Role Continuity Evaluation System', on the basis that players should be assessed by the metrics and traits important to their specific role on the pitch. Through this understanding, players are then classified into what is now 20 different roles, and assessed accordingly to see how they stack up to other players fulfilling the same player type. Here is an explanation of my scouting & analysis system, why I've coined it 'Role Continuity', and how I use the system to analyze fullbacks.

How I analyze goalkeepers for pro clubs with Role Continuity

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Data Analysis, Goalkeeper, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting

In 2022, I established my 'Role Continuity Evaluation System', on the basis that players should be assessed by the metrics and traits important to their specific role on the pitch. Through this understanding, players are then classified into what is now 20 different roles, and assessed accordingly to see how they stack up to other players fulfilling the same player type. Here is an explanation of my scouting & analysis system, why I've coined it 'Role Continuity', and how I use it to analyze goalkeepers.

Game of Numbers #25 – Barca’s midfield diamond & Frenkie de Jong in defense

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Centre Backs, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Match Analysis, Player Analysis

Barcelona have started the season off unbeaten, but it hasn't been the two most convincing performances from Xavi Hernandez's team, as they continue to adjust to the array of midfield talent they have at their disposal. Here is Game of Numbers #25, starting with Barcelona's use of Frenkie de Jong as a centre-back.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Aidan Daniels

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Canadian Premier League, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Winger

Despite his versatility to play across the pitch, the former TFC academy product started just 16 matches in 2022. But flashes of brilliance were there for all to see, constantly taking the game to the opposition through his dynamic dribbling and tactical intelligence. This season, Patrice Gheisar has fully trusted Daniels to be the star player in his attack, ensuring that he can give the ball-playing wizard a free role off the right of his 4-2-3-1. This has allowed Daniels to flourish, where he's been one of the undeniable stars of the season in 2023. Here is what makes the 24-year-old one of the top prospects coming out of the Canadian Premier League this season.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Ollie Bassett

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Central Midfield, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting

Following a move from Pacific to Atletico Ottawa ahead of the 2022 season, Ollie Bassett has been regarded by many to be one of the Canadian Premier League's most prized assets. His stunning 2022 campaign ended with 11 goal contributions to his name in 30 appearances from central midfield; not to mention a league title, and the division's MVP award. This season, Bassett's been just as influential, already matching his 8 goal, 3 assist tally from 2022 in fewer appearances.

UEFA Super Cup Final – Manchester City *1-1 Sevilla – Match Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Masterclasses, Match Analysis, UEFA Champions League

Manchester City might have won the UEFA Super Cup, but it was not the most convincing of victories from the Citizens. The match against Sevilla served as one of the first examples I've seen of Guardiola going against his typical brilliance in adapting to the moment and his players available, and sticking to a system instead. Here's an analysis of why Manchester City set up in a way that was less than optimal against Sevilla.

Game of Numbers #24 – Bellingham at the top of the diamond

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Match Analysis, Player Analysis, Team Analysis

Much has been made this summer about Real Madrid's lack of a natural Karim Benzema replacement up front, and the downgrade of Joselu entering that position for Los Blancos instead. But sometimes, you don't need to replace a player in the transfer market with a like-for-like switch. Sometimes, all you need to do is tweak the shape of the team. This is what Real Madrid have done in finding a solution for their Benzema dilemma. In the process, they've also presented a solution to the conundrum regarding how to fit all their fantastic pieces in midfield together.