Reports over Aaron Ramsey’s contract talk emerged recently, suggesting that Arsenal have taken proposed contract off the table and the Welshman may leave for nothing in the Summer.
Piotr Zielinski has emerged as a front-runner to replace Aaron Ramsey at Arsenal, But What are his qualities? What does he bring to Arsenal?
Zielinski has been an influential performer for Napoli in the past couple of years. The Poland international made an impact in Naples, not nailing down a permanent starting place and sustaining his influence for a long time rather he had his albeit moments through out the campaigns.
Under Maurizio Sarri, Zielinski primarily had a bench role though he has enjoyed more of a starting role under Carlos Ancelloti – starting seven of first eight League games this campaign.
What is his on field position?
Zielinski is an attacking midfielder, who can also play as secondary striker as well as on the flanks. He can be also used in the central midfield rather deeper on the field.
What is his style of play?
Piotr Zielinski is fearless midfielder who likes to drive the ball forward with speed, strength and most importantly fearlessly. His dribbling qualities leads defenders in two minds more often than not it attracts inevitable challenges.
Zielinski has keen eye to play passes and his moment with the ball as well as without it helps create spaces for others. He can be the central figure and make the game revolve around him.
Many believe that Piotr Zielinski is one of the best players Poland has ever produced. He has the talent and capability to be one of the best midfielders around the globe – he just have to work hard and grab his opportunities.
What are his strengths?
Zielinski likes to dribble forward and attract defenders towards him, it not only frees up his teammates but also attract defensive errors more often than not. But mainly it helps the team drive forward.
Piotr is also tactically well versed to play through balls and long range passes. He can also build up the play with link up passes and hold on the ball with his physical strength when needed.
He is smart on and off the ball, but out of all he possess ability to get the ball shaving through the net from long range. Arsenal fans love Granit Xhaka for his #XHAKABOOM’s and would love to have someone competing with Granit for those long range screamers.
Piotr Zielinski is also comfortable playing with both the feet.
What are his weaknesses?
Zielinski despite all of his physical strength is not that of an asset in the defensive aspects of the game. He has been the reason Napoli defence has been exposed multiple times, often being beaten in aerial duels and half tackles.
To play in Unai Emery’s Arsenal – ‘Everyone have to defend’ and Zielinski has not been par in defensive duties and he will have to work on that.
Despite being effective with long range shooting – Zielinski is rather poor with finishing. He can create space as well as make runs behind defenders but couldn’t put the ball past the goalkeeper on regular basis. Though he may have improved his finishing skill set under Carlos Ancelotti, already recording couple of goals for Napoli this season.
Is there a Premier League player – past or present – that Zielinski’s style of play and qualities can be likened to?
Polish journalist Ryan Hubbard speaking to ‘thisisanfield‘ back in 2016 linked Zielinski’s style of play to Chelsea’s Eden Hazard. Here is what he said:
“Although not entirely alike, Zielinski’s attacking movement is similar to that of Eden Hazard at Chelsea. Maybe not as flash, but he likes to receive the ball deep and advance as far up the field as possible, whether it be on his own or with the help of team mates.
“If he does decide to pass forward, don’t expect him to stop either: he’ll continue to try to advance and get himself in a threatening position.
“However, Zielinski doesn’t quite possess all of the attributes of the Belgian: around the box he is less-prolific, while his lacking in strength means he can be pushed-of the ball more easily.”
How much will he cost?
It is expected that he will soon pen an extension with Napoli, increasing his buy-out clause to €100 million (£89m/$116m).
His current deal expires in 2021 with a clause worth €65m (£58m/$75m).
Arsenal will have to go in with a big money bid if they possess any chance to get Napoli talking.
