Erik Schouten

In this scout report on Erik Schouten, the veteran Willem II centre-back displays a fascinating blend of experience and nuanced defensive prowess. At 33, he's mastered the art of reading the game, boasting a particularly impressive ability to carry the ball forward, which adds a surprising layer to his style of play. His knack for progressive carrying makes him an invaluable asset in transitioning defence into attack, even if his passing is less adventurous. Schouten excels in 1v1 situations, consistently coming out on top in duels, which is no small feat in the physically demanding Eredivisie. His penalty area defending is steady, ensuring he's a reliable presence when it matters most. While his ball retention is commendable, suggesting a cool head under pressure, the attacking metrics are understandably modest for his role. Nevertheless, his defensive stats paint a picture of a player who, despite the natural decline that comes with age, remains a key figure in his team’s backline.