Lars Ritzka

Lars Ritzka, St. Pauli's reliable left-back, is carving out a niche for himself in the Bundesliga with his robust defensive displays. At 27, he's matured into a steady presence on the left flank, renowned for his uncanny ability to recover possession and break up opposition attacks. His skill in ball recovery is exceptional, making him a thorn in the side of many attacking wingers. While his penalty area defending could use some sharpening, his 1v1 defending is commendable, often neutralising threats before they escalate. Ritzka's progressive play is more about securing the backline than creating chances, which aligns well with his defensive mandate. Though not a significant attacking force, his goal efficiency reveals a knack for making the most of rare opportunities in the opponent's box. This scout report highlights a player whose style of play is anchored in defensive solidity, making him a key asset for a team prioritising a staunch rearguard.