The football world has been buzzing about the latest development in the Premier League, as Manchester City midfielder Riyad Mahrez has joined the Qatar-based club DAMAC. While this move is certainly exciting for fans of the two clubs involved, it also raises questions about Mahrez's workload and defensive responsibilities.
One of the key aspects of a player's role on the field is their tackling ability. In particular, defenders like Mahrez who excel at tracking back to win balls and intercept passes are highly valued by teams. So, what can we expect from the 26-year-old Moroccan international when he joins DAMAC?
Firstly, it's important to note that Mahrez's tackling style will likely be different from what we're used to seeing from him at Manchester City. As a creative midfielder, his primary role is often to dictate play and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, with DAMAC's defensive emphasis, Mahrez may have to adjust his game to focus more on winning aerial duels and intercepting crosses.
Secondly, Mahrez's defensive workloads will depend on his team's tactical setup and opponents' attacking styles. For example, if a team likes to rely heavily on set pieces or counter-attacks, Mahrez may need to focus more on winning aerial battles and blocking shots rather than simply defending his own area. Conversely, if a team tends to play out from the back and relies on their midfielders to create chances, Mahrez may have more freedom to roam and provide support to his teammates.
Finally, it's worth noting that Mahrez's defensive work will not be his only responsibility. As a winger, he will still be expected to make runs forward and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, with his new defensive duties, he may find himself in even more dangerous areas of the pitch and must be prepared to deal with the physicality and aggression of opposition defenders.
In conclusion, while there are many unknowns surrounding Mahrez's defensive responsibilities at DAMAC, it's clear that his tackling ability will be crucial to his success in the position. With his creativity and technical skills, he should be able to adapt to the team's defensive system and contribute to their overall performance.