Youcef Atal is one of the most promising youngsters in Europe. Atal is being closely monitored by Chelsea and Tottenham. He is ready for a big move and where else to better your skills than Manchester United.
Style of play
Youcef Atal is versatile, which allows him to slot seamlessly on both wings, whether it is as a full-back or as a winger. His style has an attacking approach meaning he always wants to get the ball and move it forward.
It makes him the ideal candidate from an offensive point of view, as he knows how to act higher up the pitch. He can carry the ball from deep and create space to either shoot or cross. He is helped by his adept dribbling techniques.
Atal is also very good at making overlapping runs and makes himself a wide option for his teammates to pass. Combine this with his extremely good crossing techniques and you will have a dangerous attacking player.
Strengths
His versatility allows him to play a multitude of positions. He is a very good dribbler of the ball and has the pace to burn. The Algerian international’s crossing is quite effective which keeps the opposition of the back-foot throughout the game.
Weaknesses
The defender can occasionally rush his passes, ergo surrender possession a little too easily. The defender plays most of the game on the offensive side of the pitch and is susceptible to counter-attacks. At times, he’s left vulnerable in defense too.
Where does he fit at Manchester United
Youcef Atal can fix the problem of an attacking option on the right wing for United. His versatility will allow him to fill in as a deputy in the right-back to Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Solskjaer experimented with a 3-5-2 earlier this year and it yielded sweet results. Atal’s ability to play on the left will give Ole a perfect opportunity to deploy a 3-5-2 more comfortably.
Solskjaer suggested that United will look for ‘quality’ signings, not marquee. Atal fits right into the criteria. Jadon Sancho’s deal is stalled and United should do everything to sign a cheaper alternative in Atal.
Like Mason Greenwood, Atal is comfortable on either foot. It means he will always keep opposition defenders on his toes.
Verdict
United have a tough season ahead. They are going to play two games per season. Given United’s injury track record, they severely lack depth. Atal’s versatility gives so many opportunities for experimentations to Solskjaer. If Diogo Dalot leaves Old Trafford, signing Atal should be a no brainer.
As per Transfermarkt, his market value is around the region of ?€20m. Atal was linked to Chelsea for a fee of around ?€35m.
Nice officials reiterated that he is not for sale. However, the charms of playing at the Theatre of Dreams can certainly lure Atal to join United.
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