Image by Ben Sutherland. Source: Wikimedia commons
On our last post we analyzed Riyad Mahrez, N’Golo Kanté and Erling Haaland, however the show must go on and to bring you all the Ballon D’or contenders through Scoutpanel’s data optics, it’s time for our second analysis!
Today we bring you three Euro Cup finalists, will any of them be the Ballon D’or winner when the time comes?
Leonardo Bonucci – ITA / Juventus – 34 years old. In 2021: Won Euro Cup, Italian Cup, Italian Super Cup;
The Italian veteran had an excellent spell with Squadra Azzurra this year: won the Euro 2020 and scored one of the goals in the final game against England. In Italy, Juventus disappointingly couldn’t win the championship for the first time since 2010/11, but the Copa Italia and Super Cup trophies brought partial redemption for Juve and Bonucci.
The experienced centre-back’s off the ball ratings look a bit lower than what you’d expect from a player of his caliber, but still satisfactory. Decent Tackle Def/Off ratings mean he performed all right in his defensive duties on the ground. On the other hand, his on the ball game is above average. Good Delivery, Reception and Short Pass are not common for all defenders but for modern ball-playing centre backs. This highlights his involvement in the team’s attacking build-up. Bonucci’s Stability rating is just above average and not really good enough at the highest level, where dropping even a single match can be costly, but maybe this mirrors the whole season for Juve in Italy: not consistent enough. But the magnificent performance with the national team during Euro 2020 is what got the veteran his nomination and makes it well deserved.
Mason Mount – ENG / Chelsea – 22 years old. In 2021: Won Champions League and UEFA Super Cup. 9 goals, 7 assists
For the young midfielder, 2021 is probably one of the best years in his career so far. He played an important role in Chelsea’s Champions League winning campaign and later added the Super Cup trophy to his biography. Mount’s importance for Chelsea was revealed by their struggles in their last few matches after his injury. At international level Mount was part of Gareth Southgate’s team that reached the Euro Cup final. The Euro’s final might have been a bit disappointing for the starlet, but it’s a great achievement for an English team full of young players with plenty of potential.
Mason’s ratings illustrate his great spell this year. The young player has excellent Stability, proving how consistent he was over the year. On the ball he really shines: Very high Delivery and Reception, with slightly above average Short Pass, Take-on and Shots, and decent Finishing. All aspects of a world class midfielder who is pulling the strings on the pitch at the age of 22. Enormous potential there. Off the ball, Mount looks tidy. Good Tackle ratings and acceptable Blocked Pass show how hard the young midfielder works, always helping his team in the defensive phase of the game and not afraid to get into challenges. Overall a compelling performance by Mason Mount this year and even though he is not among the top favourites to step on the podium in Paris, his immense potential is indisputable.
Harry Kane – ENG / Tottenham – 28 years old. In 2021: 32 goals, 5 assists
It was a controversial year for the England captain. Kane had a great spell with the national team, as he scored 4 goals and reached the final in London. 23 goals in the EPL landed him his third Golden Boot, but Tottenham had yet another disappointing, trophyless season. After much speculation and a failed transfer to Man City during summer, Kane looked a bit unsettled at the beginning of the season, but it could be just a matter of time for the experienced player to revive his touch for goal. This is his third Ballon d`Or nomination and could very well lift his spirits at the end of the year.
Both off the ball and on the ball ratings show what a well-rounded player the prolific striker is. On the ball, his Finishing and Shots ratings are slightly above average, but not outstanding. His high Delivery and Pass Short ratings put his constructive importance on display. You can often see him come deep to get the ball and distribute it with great accuracy. Decent Tackle ratings and defensive headers show much he works to support the team in defense. Backed up by a good Stability rating, Harry Kane’s profile is that of a quite complete forward and brings a lot to the table. Even though not a favourite for the award according to the bookies, Kanes nomination is easy to understand.
Three players of the utmost importance for both their clubs and national team. Will any of them be the winner? Follow us in our social media and don’t miss our analysis for all the Ballon D’or contender!
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