We take a look at Benfica winger Goncalo Guedes, who has been scouted by the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United.
Goncalo Guedes has been dubbed the ‘new Ronaldo
Arsenal are reportedly scouting Benfica winger Goncalo Guedes, but who is the 19-year-old Portuguese sensation taking the Primeira Liga by storm?
The Benfica academy graduate has started the season impressively in the Portuguese league, and Arsenal are reportedly keeping an eye on the 19-year-old, according to the Independent.
Dubbed the ‘new Cristiano Ronaldo’ Guedes has also attracted the attention of Manchester United, so here’s all you need to know about him ahead of a potential switch to Old Trafford…
PROFILE
Born in Bentavente, Portugal Guede has spent the entirety of his blossoming football career with Benfica. Rising through their academy Guedes made his professional debut for Benfica B in a Segunda Liga match on 19 April 2014.
After consistent performances, the winger then progressed further and was given his first taste of action with the Benfica senior squad less than six months after making his bow for the B-side. His confident displays earned the 19-year-old the Segunda Liga’s Breakthrough player of the year award for the 2014/2015 season.
The Portuguese international’s talent has long been recognised in his homeland and Guedes has represented Portugal in every age group from under-15 to under-23 before making his full international berth for the senior side in a 1-0 defeat to Russia.
With four goals in 27 matches last season, Guede has replicated his fine form this year. And according to Portuguese football expert Tom Kundert a number of Europe’s elite were in attendance to cast an eye over the precocious talent during Benfica’s Champions League fixture with Beskitas.
INFORMATION
Name – Goncalo Guedes
Birthplace – Bentavente, Portugal
Age – 19 (29 November 1996)
Club – Benfica
Position – Winger
Height – 5 ft 11
STYLE OF PLAY
At 5 ft 11, Guedes is unusually tall for a wide-man and his stature has drawn comparisons to a young Cristiano Ronaldo. Operating predominantly on the flanks, Guedes is a direct footballer who does not hesitate to take the game to the opposition. Always eager to keen to utilise his explosive pace, he is known for his runs from deep. The comparisons do not stop there as Guedes is also known as a free-kick specialist.
Guede has been compared to his compatriot Ronaldo
He is also far more than just a speed demon and jinking winger, his distribution of the ball is something to behold. Guedes has created 11 chances and played 10 key passes. That works out as a chance created or key pass played every 22 minutes.
And the Benfica academy graduate is also versatile and has the ability to play along the frontline and it is these attributes that will make him an asset to any club.
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