To many, Luca Oyen very well may become the next big talent to emerge from Belgian football. Born in Nottingham to Belgian parents, Oyen came through the youth academy at Belgian side KRC Genk before making his debut for the senior side in 2020. Currently a Belgian U19 international, it won’t be long before Roberto Martinez may have a look Oyen’s way for potential senior call-ups.
This tactical analysis and scout report will look at some strengths emerging in Oyen’s game, as well as look forward to what the future may possibly hold for this bright young talent.
Positioning overview
In Luca Oyen’s early career so far, he has been utilised on the left side of a front three. Oyen however, has not yet become a starter under Bernd Storck this season, with the German favoring record signing Theo Bongonda from the start on the left side of his 4-3-3. One thing noticeable about Oyen so far is that he doesn’t often cut inside from the wing, rather, he prefers to dribble his way to the byline and send crosses into the box from wide areas. Storck’s tactics have suited Oyen well so far, and it will be interesting to see how his position in the side develops as he starts to gather more playing time.
Not afraid to take defenders on
One strength that is beginning to develop in Oyen’s game is his dribbling ability and tendency to take defenders on 1v1 or even 1v2. Through the mostly substitute appearances that he has had this season, Oyen has been able to show flashes of his close control and dribbling ability. So far this season, Oyen is attempting 7.33 dribbles per 90 with a success rate of 54.8%, showing that he is not afraid to try and get past defenders with a little bit of trickery.
