Willian Machado

At 28, Willian Machado is entering his prime years as a centre back for Ceará, and his performances certainly reflect a matured understanding of the game. A scout report on Machado reveals a player whose defensive prowess is underscored by an impressive knack for penalty area defending, making him a reliable last line of defence. His style of play is characterised by a robust ability to win duels, while his 1v1 defending skills make him a formidable opponent for any attacker trying to break through. More than just a traditional stopper, Machado offers a modern twist with his progressive passing, which suggests a willingness to initiate attacking plays from the back. This dual ability to defend resolutely and contribute to forward moves without compromising defensive duties paints him as a well-rounded centre back. However, while his ball retention could be polished, his solid goal threat offers an unexpected edge, indicating that he's not just content with keeping balls out of his net but also eager to make a mark at the other end of the pitch.