Identifying a replacement for Andre-Pierre Gignac at Tigres – data analysis

Many clubs have a star player, the one who scores all the goals or who leads by example. However, Tigres’ reliance on Andre-Pierre Gignac has taken it to a new level. In 2015 Gignac took the leap and joined Mexican side Tigres. Many players spend their careers trying to get to Europe, however, Gignac was going the other way. Gignac had proved to be a very accomplished striker in Ligue 1 with Marseille and Toulouse. At 29 this was a very bold move.

However, since 2015 the Frenchman has become arguably one of the greatest ever Liga MX players. Gignac has scored at least 15 goals each season, netting 114 goals in 190 matches. And with this has achieved four league titles.

At 35, Gignac’s career is coming closer to an end. Whilst his goalscoring record suggests otherwise, there will be a time when Tigres need to replace him. With his contract set to end in 2021, this could be the Frenchman’s final year.

This data analysis will use data and statistics to find a possible replacement for Gignac when he does decide to move on. The analysis will look at how Tigres can find a suitable replacement to fit Gignac’s style.

The ideal replacement

When Gignac does decide to move on Tigres may look to go in a different direction to previous years. However, with the success and head coach in charge, Tigres will ideally look for someone to fill the gap Gignac leaves.

The data above shows a clear reason why Gignac will be so hard to replace. Last season he scored 20 goals, from an expected 15.95. Not only does he score a high number, but also finishes difficult chances.

Another interesting issue here is the lack of goals from other Tigres striker. Enner Valencia has recently left the club and we also see worrying signs from Eduardo Vargas. The Chilean had stints in the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga, but struggled for goals everywhere. The issue is the same here in Liga MX with only 4 goals. Yes, Vargas is not in the team to score goals every week his game is much more than that. However, it does highlight how important it will be to bring in someone who can score week in week out.