João Schmidt

João Schmidt, now 32 and a seasoned figure in Santos' midfield, continues to impress with his ability to retain possession and seamlessly dictate the tempo of play. His style of play is defined by an exceptional knack for retaining the ball, rarely losing possession under pressure, which is a testament to his composure and technical skill. He's not just about holding the ball, though; Schmidt's progressive passing and carrying are crucial in transitioning from defence to attack, making him a pivotal link in the middle of the park. Defensively, he's reliable in shielding the backline, particularly excelling in penalty area defending, which underlines his understanding of positioning and timing. However, his one-on-one defending could be tighter, suggesting room for improvement in direct duels. Creativity and chance creation aren't his primary assets, but his experience and tactical awareness more than compensate for these minor shortcomings. This scout report underscores Schmidt’s enduring influence at the heart of Santos' setup, a player whose stats reflect a blend of experience and tactical acumen.