At 29, M'Baye Niang is delivering classic striker performances like a fine-tuned machine for Empoli in Süper Lig during the 2023-2024 season. A standout strength instantly evident from the report is his distinct prowess in ball retention - an attribute that places him in the top echelons among his league peers. With diligent clockwork, Niang is able to hold onto the ball, demonstrating an almost zen-like composure in the middle of the pandemonium. This quality sets the stage for his commendable goal threat and goal count - he is part of a dangerous elite with these metrics, scoring with frequency and efficiency seen only in the highest percentile of strikers. His attacking presence is further amplified by a solid track record in getting shots on target - you don't get to score if you don't take your shots, after all.
However, no scout report is complete without discussing areas of improvement. Niang's pass accuracy is notably lacking, residing agonizingly low in comparison to his cohort. This limits his contribution to general play and potentially robs his team off important advantages in the final third. He also performs below average in ball recovery, progressive passing, and completing successful dribbles. These are areas where Niang could put in some work to become an all-round offensive threat.
Mostly used to spearhead the attack, his goal per 90 stats and xG per 90 point to a player who thrives in the final third, capturing opportunities to add to the scoresheet. But as his successful dribbles and accuracy in passing languish, these present slight gaps in his otherwise impressive playmaking armor. Nevertheless, Niang's goal-laden style of play is something, no doubt, that Empoli and Senegal fans appreciate; deriving value from his significant strengths while accepting, with hope, the presence of some weaknesses.
M'Baye Niang Key stats
M'Baye Niang Career Trend
M'Baye Niang Shot Maps
M'Baye Niang Shot Summary
In the 2023-2024 season, M'Baye Niang took 24 shots, scoring 6 goals. This output came from an Expected Goals (xG) of 5.33, averaging 0.22 xG per shot.
Right Foot: 6 goals from 16 shots. A 37.5% conversion rate. 0.26 xG per shot.
Left Foot: 0 goals from 5 shots. A 0.0% conversion rate. 0.13 xG per shot.
Headers: 0 goals from 3 headed attempts. A 0.0% conversion rate. 0.16 xG per shot.
