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de Bruyne? Pogba? Kovacic? Kante? While the debate for best midfielder in the Premier League rages on non-stop, let's take a look at the numbers behind the league's midfield and see what separates the best from the rest. (THREAD)
For any elite team, it is important that midfielders are comfortable receiving the ball and are able to pass it under pressure. In this aspect Rodri, Gundogan and Jorginho are the best in the league. They receive the ball in difficult situations and show bravery. #MCFC #CFC
Once the ball is received, it is important to progress it to attackers as efficiently as possible. This is done in two ways - by passing it or by carrying it. Kovacic is phenomenal at carrying the ball while de Bruyne is a supreme passer. #CFC #MCFC
The efficiency of midfielders in getting the ball into the final third also gives us a clue about their progressive passing. Jorginho and Rodri once again profile well. Special mention to de Bruyne whose through balls have been impossible to deal with for defences! #CFC #MCFC
Another crucial attribute for midfielders is the ability to pass it accurately over long distances. Norwood is an expert at booming passes across the field while Rodri is way ahead in terms of volume. Both Kovacic and Neves show all-round excellence in this regard. #MCFC #Blades
While explosive dribbling ability is not a pre-requisite for a midfielder, it is nevertheless a very useful tool to have. Kovacic once again ranks among the best midfielders in the league and is not only flamboyant, but also highly efficient. #CFC #THFC
Coming to the defensive side of the game, nobody is as successful as Kante and Ndidi at winning the ball back. The duo tackle and intercept at remarkably high frequencies while also not losing their efficiency. #CFC #LCFC
When it comes to recovering loose balls and applying pressure, Ndidi and Kante are once again top of the pile. While questions have been asked of their technical prowess, there is no denying the benefits they bring to their teams without the ball. #CFC #LCFC
It is now time to focus on one particular player. Considered to be losing his way last season, Mateo Kovacic has been exploded on to the scene this year. His numbers across the board are phenomenal and in a tricky year for #CFC, he has always kept them moving.
Considered in some circles as perhaps the most pointless player in the league last season, his effectiveness and purpose was questioned by many. To suggest he has bounced back would be an understatement. He has shattered expectations and cemented himself among the best.
Kovacic is now among the best in the league in a whole variety of categories, highlighting his ability on the ball and his mentality to take criticism.
To quote Klopp, Mateo is a real Ferrari of a footballer. #CFC
To quote Klopp, Mateo is a real Ferrari of a footballer. #CFC
