Scouting: Álex Baena Rodríguez, perfect replacement for Nkunku and Felix
Personal Information:
Full Name: Alejandro "Álex" Baena Rodríguez
Date of Birth: July 20, 2001
Age: 23 years
Nationality: Spanish
Height: 175 cm (5 ft 9")
Preferred Foot: Right
Current Club: Villarreal CF
Contract Duration: Until June 2028
Weekly Wage: Approximately €38,462
Position and Playing Style:
Álex Baena is a versatile midfielder adept at playing both centrally and on the left flank. His technical proficiency allows him to operate effectively in tight spaces, facilitating quick, vertical, and direct passes. Baena's vision and passing range enable him to pick out teammates between defensive lines, making him a creative force in the attacking third.
Statistical Overview (2024/2025 Season):
Appearances: 18
Minutes Played: 1,461
Goals: 5
Assists: 5
Expected Goals (xG): 4.9
Expected Assists (xAG): 5.8
Shot-Creating Actions: 97
Goal-Creating Actions: 10
Pass Completion Rate: 67.2%
Progressive Passes per 90: 6.09
Progressive Carries per 90: 2.74
Touches in Opponent's Penalty Area per 90: 3.35
Successful Take-Ons per 90: 0.86
Shots per 90: 2.28
Progressive Passes Received per 90: 6.06
Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Expected Assists per 90: 0.61
Strengths:
Creativity and Vision: Baena excels in generating scoring opportunities, averaging 5.98 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes. His assist metrics and expected assisted goals also indicate a keen eye for creating scoring opportunities for teammates.
Ball Progression: With 6.09 progressive passes and 2.74 progressive carries per 90 minutes, he effectively advances play into attacking areas and quick transition.
Attacking Threat: Averaging 2.28 shots per 90 minutes and recording 5 goals this season, Baena consistently poses a goal-scoring threat.
Positional Versatility: His ability to function as both a central midfielder and winger provides tactical flexibility.
Areas for Improvement:
Pass Completion: A pass completion rate of 67.2% suggests room for improvement in retaining possession, particularly under pressure.
Defensive Contribution: While primarily attack-focused, enhancing his defensive skills could make him a more well-rounded midfielder.
Market Considerations:
Baena's market value has seen a significant rise, increasing from €13.17 million in 2023 to €43.54 million currently. This surge reflects his growing influence and performance levels.
Álex Baena's combination of creativity, ball progression, and attacking prowess positions him as a promising candidate for clubs seeking a dynamic midfielder. His versatility to operate both centrally and on the wing adds tactical depth. While his pass completion rate indicates a need for refinement, his overall contributions make him a valuable asset worth considering for acquisition.
Written by:
X: BlueCo Xtra
IG: BlueCo Xtra