When football fans discuss Europe and all the young talent it has on offer, they only tend to mention a couple of names as they are players that are already in the media spotlight. What these fans forget, is that their is life beyond what the media reports and there are some truly gifted players just waiting for a shot on the big stage. Schalke’s prodigy is Julian Draxler is an example of someone in the media spotlight already, however, they have more names lurking in the shadows that are waiting for an opportunity to make an assault on European football.
One of these players is Max Meyer. A great name for a great footballer. Chelsea’s interest in the young Schalke star is new to me, but they are apparently losing the chase to sign him as The Express have reported. They have suggested that it’s Liverpool that are the closest to signing him with Arsenal also credited with an interest. Seemingly a three-horse race for one future star.
Meyer is a player that Chelsea should seriously consider signing. Not just because he’s one of my favourite young players in Europe, but the fact that he is an extraordinary talent. At just 18 years of age, he’s already made a big impression in the Bundesliga. However, his reputation hasn’t yet exceeded the boundaries of Germany.
Max is an attacking midfielder and, while the Blues are well stocked in that particular position, the 18-year-old has the potential to be better than them all. He’s small in stature, but he makes up for that with hard work and intelligence. He knows he won’t be able to compete with most in a physical battle, so he engages in psychological warfare which results in him getting the better of his opponent.
He can do this in a variety of ways. He can drop away, let the opponent have the ball, but stick tight to him and force him into an error. Another trick he tries is to pretend like he will attack the ball, but at the last second he’ll make a move thus confusing the opposition which could open up chances. It’s cheeky, but it has worked. Despite this, the on-ball aspects of his game are even better.
He has fantastic vision for someone of his age and is incredibly comfortable in possession which is a rare trait these days. He will try the spectacular from time-to-time, but generally, he makes sensible decisions. But, that’s not to say that these sensible decisions don’t include a defence splitting pass or a long range shot that catches everyone out.
He’s a brilliant player and he’ll develop into one of the best midfielders of his generation. He just needs guidance and an opportunity.
I saw him a couple of times this last season and I agree he is exceptional! Very intelligent player, with great vision and timing. I dont know if he'd survive a full EPL season because of his lack of physicality, but sort that out and he'd be amazing. Would be good if Chelsea could land him!