Ludovic Ajorque Scout Report
Ludovic Ajorque, the French striker from Mainz 05, has been a competent addition to the Bundesliga side for the 2023-2024 season. His playing style is suggestive of an old-school target man, predominantly operating in the midfield third with a touch percentile rating of 93.75. The 30-year-old is impressive in aerial duels, winning 62.5% of the time but could improve when it comes to ground duels, winning only 27.08% of times.
Renowned for his hold-up play and ability to maintain possession, his ball retention percentile is average at 32%, but his run at 30 years of age could be hampering his pacey breaks and quick dribbling. The stats suggest that Ajorque often shields the ball using his physique, resulting in lower progressive carrying and passing percentile, 6.12% and 8.16% respectively. His pass accuracy, however, remains high at 85.42%, showcasing his ability to distribute the ball effectively.
His threat in front of goal can be looked upon for improvements, with xG and shots percentiles at 43.75% and 14.58% respectively. Befittingly for a striker, his activity within the attacking penalty area is above average at 56.25%. His defensive contribution is in the upper spectrum for a forward, indicated by a 62% percentile rating in penalty area defending. However, his low chance creation percentile (6%) indicates a lack of creativity in one-on-one situations.
In conclusion, Ajorque's strengths lie in his possession play, robustness, and defensive contribution. However, to elevate his game, enhancing his duelling, chance creation abilities and increasing his goal threat should be considered. With the right balance, he could yet offer more to Mainz 05 as a well-rounded Forward.