Rodney Redes is a 20-year-old winger from Paraguay who recently signed for MLS newcomers, Austin FC, who will take part in the 2021 MLS season. Redes has the honour of becoming Josh Wolff’s first-ever signing. The talented winger in young, hungry and capable of scoring goals. His ample experience despite being so young will serve him well as the Paraguayan makes the jump to MLS. His move follows his talented countrymen such as Miguel Almirón, who signed for Atlanta United but now plays for Newcastle United in the EPL.
One of the main draws of Redes’ background is his experience in 81 matches despite being only 20 years old. The young Paraguayan took part in the 2020 Copa Libertadores, making eight appearances. This tournament is recognized as the highest level of football in South America, similar to the UEFA Champions League for Europe. These big-match experiences are invaluable at such a tender age and Redes constantly shows versatility and desire while playing football.
This scout report will look at his individual qualities and an in-depth tactical analysis will examine how Redes contributed to Guaranís tactics while playing in the Paraguayan Primera Division. Austin FC will be hoping there is more to come from this exciting young player.
Chance creation
One of Redes’ most promising areas of his game is his ability to create chances and get shots on goal. Every forward becomes more valuable as they begin to create or convert goalscoring opportunities, and that is exactly what Redes has done thus far in 2020. His xG in the seven matches played in the league was a reputable 1.65. The Paraguayan scored two goals in seven league matches, and three goals in the eight appearances in the Copa Libertadores. This goalscoring record caught the attention of Austin FC as they look to add attacking firepower which matches the culture of the club. February marked the start of Redes’ explosive goalscoring form where he scored a goal in four consecutive matches.
The reason Redes can get into goalscoring positions is his high energy, dynamic nature, and ability to beat players in 1v1 dribbles. What is most impressive is his activity around the box. Redes is classified as a winger, but he has capabilities to play anywhere in the forward area. This attribute creates danger for the opposition as he is comfortable cutting inside, dribbling down the line or making runs through the middle of the pitch. His high energy, combined with his strong stature, creates a versatile player.
Austin FC can expect Redes to get the ball and take lots of shots on goal, which will yield results. His willingness to get into the box means results will come as he takes chances that are more likely to score considering his position on the pitch. The shot map below illustrates where Redes shots come from. These statistics are based on 2019 performance. Of the 51 total shots taken, 22 were on target with a goal conversion rate of 15.7%. What is promising about Redes is he gets in the box. 39 out of 51 shots taken were from inside the penalty area which resulted in six goals (out of eight last season).
This analysis shows how Redes can be most effective. By using his energy to encourage runs into the box and taking on the outside backs, Redes can be valuable to the team.
An example of Redes doing what he does best is shown in the analysis below. The young Paraguayan isolates his defender and is in a great situation to create a chance on goal. He is around the box and intends to get into a goal-scoring position. In this situation, Redes cleverly flicks the ball over the defenders head to beat his man. His choice in this situation was difficult to execute, but the Paraguayans creativity proved decisive. Redes successfully beats his player and is in on goal.
