Football can be a game full of ups and downs. This doesn’t go only for the clubs and fans. The players also have to face a lot of challenges throughout their careers. One of the biggest challenges for any player is to establish his status in the team. One needs a lot of skills and talent to be a part of a top team. However, there can be other factors that can affect a player’s game time.
Several top clubs often recruit more players than required. They look to strengthen the bench squad and hope to win titles. Arsenal, one of the biggest clubs in England are looking to win titles. Their project has been a great success as the team is continuously winning matches. A stable team has helped Mikel Arteta & Co. to reach newer heights.
One player who came to Arsenal but couldn’t make it to Arteta’s plans was Nuno Tavares. The Portuguese left-back came from Benfica. After spending a season at the North London club, the youngster was sent on two different loan spells. This season, he is on loan at Lazio, who have an option to buy the player. Things have started well for the 24-year-old in Italy. Here is a look at why the Italian club could sign him on a permanent deal.
Assists machine
Nuno Tavares has played in seven league games for Lazio. He is a proper left-back and has some amazing skills. One of the reasons why Tavares has impressed many is because of his assists. The Portuguese averages an assist per game in the Serie A. All seven assists were provided from a similar position. A 45.7% cross success rate has helped his teammates score seven goals. The weight of the deliveries has made it easy for the forwards.
Against Empoli, Nuno found a lot of space on the flank. He took on the opposition player to deliver a lofted ball into the box. The ball was headed into the back of the net.
Another assist came from a bursting run made by the flying full-back. He managed to get past the defence and found a lot of empty areas on the left flank. This time the cross was low and was directed away from the goal. His teammate made full use of the delivery and got his goal.
These progressive runs on the left flank have caused trouble for the opposition. Most of these runs started in the defensive half and ended up penetrating the final third. Tavares’ deliveries and runs indicate that he is a typical left-back. Lazio will be happy with his display on the field.
Defensive strength
Nuno Tavares has performed his primary duties well. His only mistake was a penalty awarded to the opposition. Other than this, the Portuguese defender has made 16 interceptions, with a couple coming in the attacking half. Overall, Nuno has managed to win most of his defensive battles.
A few recoveries in the attacking half have also led to a goal-scoring chance. Nuno has the speed to beat the opposition players. This makes him a big threat in the Serie A.
Lazio will be happy with the progress of their on-loan signing. They might sign him in winter or next summer. Other clubs might also get into the mix and challenge them for the player.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine