The Next Brazil Number '10'

Our 'Guest Blogger' Nathan Davis, 

from www.journeymanandco.blogspot.co.uk 

Posted by Nathan Davis on August 11, 2012 

The next Brazil number ‘10’

Much of the hype surrounding Brazil’s Olympics squad has centred on their new number ‘10’ who goes by the name of Oscar dos Santos Emboada Junior, commonly known as “Oscar”. Born on the 9^th September 1991 in Americana, this young attacking midfielder dubbed the ‘new Kaka’ is aiming to lead Brazil to Olympic gold at London 2012. He’s only been in London just over a week and already European Champions, Chelsea, have splashed out a whopping £25 million to secure his signature. So, in Brazil’s 3-1 victory over a spirited Belarus side at Old Trafford, the spotlight was on Oscar to see what Chelsea’s millions have acquired.   

(Oscar, wearing his former club Internacional colours for the last time) picture obtained from www.freshfootball.co.uk

Analysis:

Brazil’s tried and trusted 4-2-3-1 formation is perfectly suited to Oscar’s style of play. He operates in the middle of the attacking three midfielders which provides him with the freedom to roam and collect possession in various areas of the pitch. In the knowledge that the two holding midfielders will provide the defensive cover and maintain team shape. This freedom also allows him to showcase his spatial awareness as he regularly drifts in between the opponent’s midfield and defensive lines. On receiving the ball, his first instinct is always to turn quickly and look to penetrate the defence with either a precise pass or a quick dribble and shot combination. 

Oscar’s slight physique means he is very nimble and a fast change of direction that often sees him evade challenges and close marking. He is very adept at receiving the ball when under pressure from defenders in tight areas of the pitch due to his excellent first touch and quick footwork. But most importantly, he has that bit of Brazilian flair and trickery that can beat a defender in an instinct. 

Individual Ability Grade:

Shooting: 8 out of 10

Passing: 8.5 out of 10

Tackling: 7.5 out of 10

Heading: 6.5 out of 10

Dribbling: 9 out of 10

Pace: 8 out of 10

Vision: 8 out of 10

Oscar and Brazil teammate, Neymar, have established a real cohesion and appreciation of ether others game that has created many goals. 

(Oscar and Neymar celebrate a goal for Brazil) picture obtained via

www.dailymail.co.uk  

The verdict: 

On first inspection many football supports may feel Chelsea spending a vast amount of money on a player largely unknown is somewhat of a gamble. But, Oscar’s many talents will suit the Premier League and ensure that he soon becomes a familiar name. One of which we all will be embedding in our fantasy football teams come August!

By, Nathan Davies

(Thiago Silva congratulates both Neymar, and Oscar for sealing victory at Old Trafford) picture obtained via www.dailymail.co.uk  

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