A regular feature on our website is the Talent Radar Team of the Week with the best young players compiled into an XI from across Europe’s top seven leagues. You can read this for all details on Talent Radar, who is eligible under it and what else we publish within this feature.
[Max. Age Limit: 22 years old on match-day for outfield players, 23 years old for goalkeepers]
Returning to a Talent Radar XI for the first time this season is Ajax’s Andre Onana. In a match where the scoreline was a really inaccurate reflection of the play, Onana’s 7 saves made the difference for Ajax as they cruised to a comfortable 0-4 win at Vitesse. In front of him, Nordi Mukiele wins a place at right full back for this team. The latest beneficiary of RB Leipzig’s youth-centric policies, Mukiele put in an impressive performance on the right side of the field in an otherwise disappointing draw against Fortuna. On the left is Alex Grimaldo. The La Masia graduate was at his marauding best, and got on the scoresheet as well, taking Benfica to a 0-4 cruise. Nice have had a tough start to the season, losing 3 consecutive games under Patrick Viera. They bounced back in style this weekend with a 0-1 win away from home. 19 year old Malang Sarr put in a wonderful performance with 7 clearances, keeping the dangerous Lyon attack at bay. The theme of underdog wins at centre back continues with Joachim Andersen of Denmark playing his part as Sampdoria shocked Napoli to run out 3-0 winners.
In the middle of the park, the all action Manuel Locatelli picked up and assist during Sassuolo’s 5-3 win against Genoa. The young Italian dominated proceedings despite being entrusted with a big responsibility, something that will earn him his manager’s praise. Back in France, Guinamp must be very disappointed to come away with nothing after playing at home against 10 men for over an hour. Credit goes in no small part to Ibrahim Sangare. The defensive midfielder back up his decisive goal with 6 tackles and a fine shielding job to win his side 3 points this weekend. Huddersfield broke their rut with a positive result at Goodison Park. While last week’s draw will rightfully be seen as a disappointment, this one will carry some hope and positivity. Philip Billing got the important goal for the Terriers, putting another point on the board in what is sure to be a tough struggle this season.
The forward line has Steven Bergwijn of PSV on the left side. The attacked scored twice as Willem got routed by the reigning Eredivisie champs. Leading the line is Maxi Gomez of Celta Vigo. Goals from him and Liverpool fan favourite, Iago Aspas, gave Celta a deserved 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid. The Uruguayan even laid on an assist for his strike partner, auditioning well for a starting spot alongside the dynamic duo of Suarez and Cavani. Finally, we have Marco Asensio. The biggest beneficiary of Ronaldo’s move to Juventus, Asensio has been in the thick of things for Lopetegui this season. His pace, skill, and accuracy in the final third are proving to be irresistible as Real have made a strong start to life after Him.
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