Portuguese giants Porto are one of the few clubs who have been able to achieve massive success by using the “Moneyball” model of profit-making. Along with a rich history of being one of the most successful sides in the world, the club has created talented footballers, who have left the world spellbound with their abilities and rich talent.
Several top footballers like Pepe, Falcao, Hulk and Deco have emerged from Porto over the years, which is an indication that the club is indeed amongst the best at creating superstars.
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Portuguese striker Andre Silva, who has impressed scouts with his poacher’s instinct and sublime performances for Porto this season, looks all set to join this illustrious list. The 21-year old has been extremely impressive for Porto in the Champions League this season having scored 4 goals and registered 2 assists in just 6 matches. The highly rated striker has kept progressing after becoming the youngest player ever to score a hat-trick in Portuguese footballing history.
Background
Born in Baguim do Monte, a parish in Gondomar, Portugal, Silva kicked off his footballing career with S.C Salgueiro, based in Porto. On 12 August 2013, Andre made his professional debut for the Porto B team in a 3-2 away win against S.C Beira-Mar.
After scoring 7 goals in just 34 games for the club in his second season, he earned his first-team debut at the age of 19 in a 3-1 home defeat.
Though the succeeding 2015-16 season was an unpleasant one for him initially as a result of intense competition over first team spots, the situation improved further on after Jose Peseiro replaced Julen Lopetegui as the manager.
The former Portuguese striker handed him a rare start in the last league game of the season which gave the youngster an opportunity to score his first league goal.
Style of Play
Versatile and street-smart are the characteristics that can be used to describe the centre forward. Silva has the ability to perform anywhere along the frontline. The striker can be described as a manager’s delight as he can adjust and adapt to any uncertainties caused by injuries and perform effectively even when deployed on the wings.
His ability to thrive under pressure and adapt to any situation makes his gameplay extremely attractive to the fans as well as the manager.
Strengths
The marksman is hailed as the “next Pauleta” by fans and experts alike because of his immense talent. His proficiency at sensing opportunities and immense self-confidence inspires hope that he can go on to emulate the legendary striker.
Silva’s strong build up play, courage and astute positioning helps him outsmart even the most experienced defenders out there.
Andre’s ability to score with either foot and his aerial prowess makes him a complete striker, and he draws comparisons with Real Madrid and Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo. His high work rate and shrewd footballing acumen enable him to pick passes even from deeper roles which enhance the team’s gameplay.
The 21-year-old is extremely humble, dedicated and focused.
Weaknesses
The lack of pace in his gameplay makes him an unsuitable option for a club like Real Madrid which thrives on counter-attacking football. A major chink in his armour is his tendency to stray offside at inopportune moments, something that needs to be worked on and corrected immediately.
The Portuguese has enjoyed a good start to the season but his lack of consistency is a key issue. Though the stats present him as a lethal striker who scores goals consistently, almost in every game, they are misleading in this case.
The forward is guilty of going missing in a few games which he compensates for with sublime performances in the next couple of games. His impact also decreases against well-organised sides who easily deal with the threat he offers.
The road ahead
Several top footballing outfits like Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid have been scouting the youngster. The striker has recently signed a new contract with the club which has increased his buyout clause to £60 million.
The marksman has enjoyed a good start to the season which is good news for Porto as well as his national team who have been crying out for a promising striker since Pauleta retired.
Nuno Espírito Santo has been extremely encouraging in his approach towards Andre which makes Porto the perfect club for him. He is enjoying regular game time and opportunities to exhibit his talent at the highest level which is exactly what a promising striker like Silva needs.
Although the 21-year-old is currently enjoying life at Porto, a move to one of the European giants cannot be ruled out.
