As the Premier League season approaches its eagerly anticipated finale, we have an incredibly intriguing battle at both ends of the table.
Whilst English giants fight for the title, former European champions Nottingham Forest are one of the sides desperate to maintain their top-flight status.
They are eerily close to the drop zone for their liking.
Now led by Nuno Espírito Santo, Forest has sought to build upon a pragmatic and resolute defensive structure while allowing its dynamic attacking quartet to flourish.
One of Nottingham Forest’s most influential players this season has been the unlikely figure of Murillo Santiago Costa dos Santos, the 21-year-old central defender acquired from Corinthians in the summer window.
Having invested around €12m in an absolute unknown quantity due to his lack of senior footballing experience, the Brazilian has been a prominent defensive force in an otherwise frustrating campaign.
In many ways, Murillo has transformed into a walking highlight reel, with his ambitious play and surprising progressive nature capturing the attention of fans around the world.
With an array of elite clubs reportedly incredibly impressed by his style of play and technical prowess, it would be fair to assume that his time in Nottingham may potentially draw to a close with a busy summer transfer window on the horizon.
This tactical analysis and Murillo scout report will begin to delve into some of Murillo’s games aspects that have garnered so much attention, highlighting his tactical deployment and impact in all three-thirds of the pitch.
Our analysis will examine how Murillo style of play has adapted so quickly to the Premier League, effectively harnessing his side’s tactics and rapidly emerging as an incredible leader when his team needs him the most.
Murillo Physical profile
Despite only recently embarking on his senior football career, Murillos style of play has brought with him all of the qualities that made him so beloved in Brazil.
Corinthians are ruing his departure, and Nottingham Forest is growing stronger with his presence.
Murillos overall footballing qualities make him a comfortable left-sided central defender, the most prevalent member of Forest’s defensive line in Espírito Santo’s 4-2-3-1 setup.
His defensive positioning has benefited from an incredibly supportive double pivot.
The likes of Ryan Yates and Danilo drop into the defensive line when out of possession, showing glimpses of their previous tactical setup in a back five under Steve Cooper.
Murillo also m
