Rodri and Tanguy Ndombele are the latest in the long list of young midfielders added to the Premier League mix.
Both players were purchased to play in different systems and fit into different roles in their respective teams.
Rodri was signed to play the position of defensive midfielder to be a long term replacement for Fernandinho. That means he embodies all of Fernandinho’s traits plus a bit more.
Since his arrival, he has fit in seamlessly to the club with the Brazillian barely getting a look in so far this season.
Ndombele was signed to bring a physical presence to the Spurs midfield as well as his ability on the ball. Traits that have been lacking since prime Moussa Dembele.
For Guardiola’s team, the defensive midfielder is very important for his style of football. He is vital during buildup when in possession and pressing when out of it.
Ndombele is a more mobile player. Whether he plays beside Harry winks in a midfield two or as part of a midfield three, he is all about the movement and the hustle with him both offensively and defensively.
Due to this, he has a better chance of having more goal involvements.
He was also missed in their loss to Newcastle at the weekend.
Stats
The stats given are according to Whoscored and the Premier League stats index.
Rodri has certainly played very well in his new position. His 241 touches which are the fourth-most in the City team shows his importance to the team.
He also has a pass success rate of 93.4%, the second-highest in the City team and the third highest in the League. He passes on average 55 times each game.
His team has a lot of the ball and most times he does not need to tackle but he has won 2 of his 6 tackles so far this season. He has also won 8 headers this season with 7 of those coming in the first two League games of this season.
He is yet to score or assist this season and that is expected due to his position.
Ndombele has been more of a robust figure for his team though with 8 tackles in two games for his new team and 5 of those coming against Rodri’s City Side.
Ndombele, in his two games played, has touched the ball a total of 138 times an has completed 87 passes with a success rate of 86.4%.
The Frenchman has scored once and also assisted once already this season.
Probably the biggest difference in their roles the difference in the amount of touches in the opposition penalty area.
Rodri has managed only 1 of those this year while N’dombele has 5 total touches in the opposition box.
Both players have amassed impressive stats thus far and these averages will continue to get better as the season progresses for these two talented imports.
