From the EPL to the QNB Stars League, the 2020/21 summer transfer window was a tricky one. Clubs in Asia resorted to spending money on vital signings only, and Al-Khor SC sought out to do the same. Considering their attacking lapses that saw them finish 10th in QNB Stars League last season, theyve signed Yuki Kobayashi from the Belgian club Waasland-Beveren.
In this tactical analysis, well look at the general attributes of Kobayashi, his individual tactics, and an analysis of his play. In addition, the scout report will explore his compatibility in László Bölönis side.
Positioning where does he fit?
Kobayashi is a mobile attacking midfielder, who prefers to roam around and receive the ball from deep. As his heatmap suggests, he is quite comfortable starting out as a central midfielder, drifting either way. With Waasland-Beveren, he was used frequently as a central attacking midfielder, with occasional appearances as an advanced wide midfielder supporting the striker upfront.
Al-Khor have been a side that preferably opt for a 4-2-3-1. However, the beginning of this season has seen them change into 4-4-1-1, 3-4-2-1, or a 5-3-2, primarily against former-Barcelona man Xavis Al Sadd. Seeing Kobayashis previous club and how he was positioned, the 4-2-3-1 looks to suit the Japanese. He can either start off as a central midfielder, guarded off by two other wide midfielders or a left-attacking midfielder that drifts towards the centre.
If we look at Al-Khors general
