A few years ago the name Alphonso Davies was relatively unknown especially on the international football scene but over the last few months, the youngster has been blazing a sensational trail for Bayern Munich and is one to keep a keen eye on.
Davies’ impact on Bayern has been much quicker than expected especially under Hansi Flick. Throughout this season he has been sensational to watch both on and off the pitch (seriously, take a look at his TikTok).
The 19-year old Canadian winger and left-back was signed by Bayern two years ago as long-standing players such as Philipp Lahm, Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben were retiring from the team.
At that point, the squad lacked depth both defensively as well as on the wings. Since Lahm’s retirement, Bayern had lacked leadership and strength, especially at the back. It was inevitable but still difficult to watch as the club made efforts and signings to try and improve the situation.
Davies’ addition to the squad in January 2019 was supposed to add support on the wings. Where he has truly shone however has been as a left-back adding defensive cover as well as going forward and helping create attacking chances.
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As Bayern was riddled with injuries that saw Niklas Sule and Lucas Hernandez sidelined, Davies was called up to David Alaba’s favoured left-back position. This allowed Alaba to take a central defensive role, and Davies to show his defensive potential. This is when things really seemed to click for him.
He has won 58% of challenges per football game. When compared to Alaba’s 55.7% this is staggering, especially for a young newcomer. It’s not just his defensive work and his 91% successful pass rate that’s so useful.
He pushes forward and gets involved with the attack as well as quickly dipping back when needed. In his 28 appearances so far this season, he has already scored once and provided 7 assists.
He’s an intelligent player who is super aware of what’s happening all over the pitch - all-rounders like him are what Bayern need right now. The Canadian wünderkid is speedy too - he has an approximate top speed of 34.7kmph which is particularly useful with his dynamic style of play.
With strength, speed, intelligence and numbers like these, it is no wonder he’s been tipped to be one of the best left-backs in the world. In the Bundesliga as well as the world over, it’s exciting to see what the football future holds for Alphonso Davies.
