Advanced metrics, scout report, and player stats for Ilia Gruev
Player Bio
Position
Defensive Midfielder
Next League Match
Leeds United
vs
QPR
(H)
09 November 2024
Ilia Gruev Scout Report
Scout report on Ilia Gruev, a Bulgarian international playing a crucial role in Leeds United's midfield, suggests his natural habitat is the heart of the game - the central portion of the pitch. Gallivanting around the midfield third 65.41% of the time, he stands as a fulcrum for Leeds United, fulfilling his defensive duties proficiently while also providing a supporting hand in attack.
Looking at his player stats, Gruev has distinguished himself in the Championship with his exceptional ability to retain possession, ranking in the top percentile, a hallmark of every top-tier defensive midfielder. This skill is supplemented by his knack for aerial duels and duels in general, lending credence to his physical prowess on the field. The 24-year-old further strengthens his defense with a commanding interception presence, marking his territory in the 79th percentile of his peers.
However, every player has their strengths and weaknesses, and Gruev is no exception. Scoring low in chance creation, goal threat, and shots per 90 signals a lack of attacking prowess. His style of play leans more towards ball circulation and protection rather than direct involvement in attack.
Another concern is his disciplinary record. Gruev's percentile rankings signal a tendency to invite the referee's attention with a high number of fouls committed, landing him in the upper quartile for yellow cards. It's a double-edged sword — this aggression helps Gruev stand firm in duels but risks reducing Leeds to ten men.
Concluding the analysis, Ilia Gruev's style of play reflects a solid, ball-retaining defensive midfielder, excellent at neutralizing threats but lacking a bit in the creative elements of the game. His disciplined aggression could be both a saving grace and a potential hazard, which makes watching his future development particularly intriguing.
Ilia Gruev Career Trend
Ilia Gruev Shot Maps
In the 2024-2025 season, Ilia Gruev took 11 shots, scoring 0 goals. This output came from an Expected Goals (xG) of 0.47, averaging 0.04 xG per shot.
Right Foot: 0 goals from 0 shots. A 0% conversion rate. 0 xG per shot.
Left Foot: 0 goals from 11 shots. A 0.0% conversion rate. 0.04 xG per shot.
Headers: 0 goals from 0 headed attempts. A 0% conversion rate. 0 xG per shot.