Gabriel Moscardo – The Future of Brazil's Midfield
After watching the integrality of Corinthians’ 2023 encounters against Atlético Mineiro (H), Internacional (H) and Vasco de Gama (A), I did a little deep dive on Gabriel Moscardo and wanted to share this article along with some of my thoughts.
Gabriel Moscardo possesses a profile that is severely lacking in Luis Enrique’s PSG. A midfielder that is both physically dominant and press resistant, capable of stabilizing the ball to facilitate build-up through his dribbling or pivot play.
Although Vitinha has experienced a sort of revival this season repositioned as a 6, this solution should remain situational and not permanent in the long-term. Moscardo’s ability to slot in as a 6 and 8 while providing better defensive cover can offer the Portuguese a much-needed complementarity.
With Ugarte falling down the pecking order, it would not be surprising to see Moscardo compete for a starting spot unless we see the arrival of a more experienced 6 this summer. Whereas the Uruguayan excels in pressing and harassing his opposition, Moscardo is a true sentinel, preferring to protect his defense all while possessing a technical ability so precious to Luis Enrique.
However, Moscardo does have his share of shortcomings. Although he possesses an excellent passing range, he is by no means a Leandro Paredes able to cut through a defensive block with one pass (to be noted that Corinthians share very little possession and that a new context at PSG could bring out more elements to his play). He can also be guilty of excess engagement in his duels due to his more imposing frame. But most importantly, his lack of speed is a serious hassle when it comes to stopping wingers on a fast break, a responsibility he would have to share with Zaïre-Emery.
All in all, this is a very promising profile but a reminder that this is a player who is only 18 years old (will turn 19 later in the year). Do not be surprised if Moscardo does not immediately impact on the face of our midfield. But a good pre-season with Luis Enrique can do wonders for a kid of his talent.
by sept_sept
2 comments
So could he finally be our Motta replacement or I’m completely out of line ?
[Linking the article again](https://footballtalentscout.net/2023/09/21/gabriel-moscardo-the-steering-wheel-by-vuyo-ndebele/) just in case. It’s rather long but worth the read for anyone who wants a more in-depth look at the player and can’t find the time for a re-watch.