The world is full of young football talents.
They grow up in the streets of São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Abuja or Belgrade, and the world is literally to their feet, so to speak. In our work and research in BabaGol, we discover many players that don’t get the focus or the chance to showcase what they can produce.
Juan Gafas, our ‘shadow’ scout, with this weekly talent.
Simen Nordli
Age: 20
Club: Aalesunds (Norway)
Position: Winger, Forward and Attacking Midfielder
Nationality: Norway
Market Value: €400,000 (Transfermarkt)
Why follow him? Simen is a versatile player, who can play virtually all over the attacking line and even deeper. He can run play from the centre of the pitch and score or assist when in more advanced zones.
Simen completed two seasons with HamKam in the Norwegian 2nd tier, with good numbers and consistent development in his games. His skills on the ball were always there, but gradually his decision making and physiques improved and in recent months he was lethal. These qualities made him a regular member in the U17-U19 national squads,
Although he is more of an attacking player, he works hard without the ball and I think a change of position might benefit him transform from a good prospect to a very good one. His vision and technical skills will be useful in a deeper position, where he would still be able to drive the ball forward and attempt on goal.
Regardless to the position, he is a talented player worth following. Recently he signed with newly promoted 1st tier side Aalesunds, a side he enjoyed scoring against last season (twice), and a place where I hope he will do well under Lars Bohinen's guidance.