Lopetegui might unearth his subsequent Iniesta in late Wolves transfer for 21 y/o “machine” – opinion
Wolverhampton Wanderers have loved a superb January switch window, with Julen Lopetegui clearly making an attempt to say his personal authority on the squad and signing gamers that match his mannequin.
Arrivals embrace Pablo Sarabia, Matheus Cunha and Joao Gomes, and paired with the improved performances of late, the Molineux devoted have each purpose to really feel assured of Premier League survival this season; as at one level beneath Bruno Lage, the membership regarded in a perilous state of affairs.
The Previous Gold’s enterprise won’t be completed there, particularly because the membership have been linked with Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte of late, and the 21-year-old might full Lopetegui’s midfield.
Certainly, he might develop into the Spaniard’s subsequent Andres Iniesta, with the previous Barcelona icon having performed for Lopetegui throughout his time as supervisor of the Spanish nationwide group.
Ugarte is quiet much like Iniesta when it comes to taking part in type. This season, the Uruguayan has embodied the 131-cap Spain legend quite properly by taking 61.2 touches on common throughout 16 Liga Portugal matches, whereas additionally holding a quite spectacular 91% passing accuracy as he operates from the center of the park.
Ugarte has additionally impressed on the defensive facet of his recreation, making 3.5 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 0.7 clearances per match whereas successful 56% of his complete duels. These are attributes that Iniesta had in abundance, changing into considered one of his era’s best all-round midfielders.
The “midfield machine” – as Ugarte was dubbed by expertise scout Jacek Kulig – has definitely blossomed into one of many continent’s best skills, with FBref rating him within the prime 6% for cross completion, dribbles accomplished, tackles, interceptions and blocks throughout Europe’s prime 5 leagues. He might be one other vastly very important signing for Lopetegui if he joins the Previous Gold earlier than tonight’s switch deadline.
Wolves can be hoping to finish the switch window with a bang, and by probably signing Ugarte, they may give the supporters one thing else to cheer in what has been a disappointing season up to now.