The Bundesliga is host to some of the finest talents in world football and a number of players from Germany are expected to attract a lot of interest from clubs around Europe. Out of the many stars that could be on the move, one player who is definite to leave his current club is Schalke’s Sead Kolasinac. Out of a contract at the end of the season, Kolasinac has decided not to extend his contract and is wanted by the biggest clubs around the world. The likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton, Juventus, and Milan are all interested in his signature but Arsenal have reportedly completed signing the player on a free ahead of the summer. But who is this Schalke man? Here is a mini-scout report of the player:
Background:
Born and brought up in Karlsruhe, Germany, Kolasinac started his youth career at the academy at the place of his birth but jumped to Hoffenheim at a tender age. He only spent a season with Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena, before being snapped up by VFB Stuttgart just a year later. He showed great progress during his time at Stuttgart which saw him earn a place in one of the most exciting clubs in Germany- Schalke.
He spent three years in the domestic circuit at the club but Kolasinac was a constant presence in the senior squad as well and has cemented his place in the first team at the Veltins-Arena in the last couple of seasons. He has more than 80 appearances for the German side and has also earned more than 15 national caps for Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he is eligible to play because of his parents. Surely, he is one of the most exciting players in his position at the moment.
Style of Play/ Strengths and Weaknesses:
Known for his defensive abilities, Kolasinac is a versatile player who started his career as a centre back. He can also play as a CDM or on the left side of the midfield and is a player who can play genuinely in more than one position. But he is at his best at left-back, a position that allows him to sit back and defend but also gives him a chance to have an effect at the other end.
Strong in the air and with exceptional ability to think on his feet, Kolasinac never shies away from a challenge and he is sure to improve the defence of any squad that he walks into. His physical strength makes him a perfect fit for the Premier League while his pace on the flank, allows him to get the better of opponents.
He has to improve his shooting and his long range passing if he wants to be the best in Europe but at the moment, Kolasinac can solve the problems that are evident at the Emirates.
How will he fit in at Arsenal?
The Gunners have the likes of Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs in this position and neither player is expected to play regularly next season. Monreal is 31, and may not play for a long time while Gibbs has not been trusted in the first team this season by Wenger.
So, it does not come as a surprise that Arsenal have taken the initiative and have reportedly signed Kolasinac. His physical approach will add mettle to the back line for the Gunners, while his creativity can make them a better team in attack.
