#2 Matias Nahuel – Real Betis (on loan from Villarreal)
The 19-year-old Spanish winger, Nahuel, had risen through the Villarreal ranks and is currently on a 2 season long loan at Real Betis with an option to buy for the club. The move is expected to afford him extended playing time in a bid to ensure that his growth as a footballer is not disrupted and the player is expected to become an integral part of the Betis’ attacking unit in the current season.
The diminutive player has been renowned for his attacking abilities and played a crucial part in Spain’s U-19 UEFA Championship victory in 2015 and continued the good work with Villarreal’s B Team as he proved critical to their attacking unit.
However, his transition to the top first team did not go as per the plan as he failed to live up to the expectations in his first season as part of the main squad.
Nahuel possesses great pace and acceleration that is well complemented by his ability on the ball, making him a threat to the opposition. A silky operator who can also function as a number 10 when required, he has showcased an ability to find teammates in critical areas on the pitch and has been likened to the legendary Argentine, Juan Roman Riquelme.
While his performances in the last season might not draw a lot of inspiration, the move to Betis would provide him with an opportunity to express himself as a footballer better and we expect him to shine in the upcoming season.