When Robert Lewandowski left Bayern Munich for Barcelona in the summer transfer window, the Poland legend created something akin to his very own Bundesliga-themed Game of Thrones. Who would take his place as the ruler of the German game?
Would it be Marco Reus, perhaps the most likely challenger? Or would Christopher Nkunku seize the crown? Few would have imagined that Sheraldo Becker, a veritable unknown to those of you with only a passing knowledge of German football a few months ago, would be putting forwards his own claim for the throne.
But the title of ‘Bundesliga’s best’ belongs, as things stand, to him and him alone.
So far, no one has scored more times in 2022/23 than Becker (six). Only Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani has more assists (three). That perennial overachievers Union Berlin are still top of the tree heading into the September international break – two points clear of Dortmund, five ahead of Bayern – is the result of a terrific team effort.
But Becker, following up a stunning volley against Bayern with a goal and an assist in the 2-0 triumph over Wolfsburg last time out, is still head and shoulders above the rest. A game-changer. A match-winner. The most influential forward in Germany, and one of the best in Europe on current form.
Is Sheraldo Becker the best in the Bundesliga right now?
The former ADO Den Hag winger has certainly come a long way since a handful of Championship clubs were trying to sign him on a free transfer a couple of seasons ago.
Per The Mirror, Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough were all tracking Becker during the 2018/19 season; his breakthrough campaign as one of the Eredivisie’s finest frontmen.
How much would Becker be worth these days? With a contract until 2025, Union Berlin can rest easy. Safe in the knowledge that they, unlike ADO in 2019, hold all the cards. Becker is priceless to their increasingly realistic hopes of a maiden Champions League qualification. Any January offers would have to be in the colossal category to convince the capital city club to cash in.
If Union Berlin are the shining example of how far sensible recruitment and intelligent team-building can take you, then Sheraldo Becker sums up their success better than anyone.
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