The world is full of young football talents. Every now and then we hear about the ‘next Messi’ or the ‘new Ronaldo’.
Baba Scouted is committed to the more realistic side of football’s next generation. Each week, our scout, Juan Gafas, is sharing one talent that caught his eye.
Matías Esquivel
Age: 21
Club: Lanús (Argentina)
Position: Attacking Midfielder.
Nationality: Argentinian
Market Value: 250.000 € (Transfermarkt)
Why follow him? Matías Esquivel (1.65 m) probably won't make it to any 'Argentinian most promising talents' lists nowadays, but this boy is very skilful, and with patience, I believe he can make a name for himself.
Lanús is one of the best clubs for young talents to start their way, but Esquivel has less than a dozen games with the first team, having celebrated 21 only a few months ago. While watching him play for the reserve team, I was very impressed with his excellent skills on the ball, desire to make things happen for his team, determination and overall positive character.
He can take on opponents with ease; the ball stuck to his feet, and he can accelerate well but lacks the speed to complete dribbles past the opponent. That's why he is probably better suited in the middle than wide, breaking the opponent's pressure and driving forward. In Lanús' first-team, he has more defensive assignments, something he needs to improve to become a more versatile player with more chances to succeed.
When football is back in Argentina, it should be interesting to watch where will Luis Zubeldia, Lanús' coach, have him to play. I believe that the closest he can be to the opponent's box, the better, but he has the potential to play in a deeper role too.