Viktor Kovalenko's defensive midfield role at Empoli in Serie A is a study in contrast. His scout report reveals an intriguing mix of strengths and concerns. Adept at posing a goal threat, Kovalenko's performances in the 2023-2024 season reflect an impressive capacity for goal efficiency and chance creation. His ability to find the net is superior, as indicated by his high metrics for goal and shot accuracy. However, of concern are his exceedingly low statistics in areas typically paramount to his position. His ball recovery and ball retention skills are shockingly limited, landing in the lower 1% and 4% respectively, alarming figures for a defensive midfielder.
Similarly, his progressive carrying and pass accuracy leave much to be desired. Alarmingly, his performance in terms of duels won is also quite poor, slipping into the 5th percentile, thus showing a significant weakness in one-on-one confrontations. His player activity and possession area proportions suggest his influence largely resides in the midfield third and the attacking third indicating a proclivity for moving the ball upfield. However, given his less-than-stellar ball retention and recovery, the opposing teams often gain advantage in these areas.
Despite his remarkable goal prowess, Kovalenko's player stats suggest he could greatly benefit from a more focused approach to his defensive responsibilities, honing those essential midfield skills. This contradiction in Kovalenko's style of play, balancing commendable attacking numbers with worrying defensive stats, presents a fascinating snapshot of a unique player needing to strike a more consistent balance in his game.
Viktor Kovalenko Key stats
Viktor Kovalenko Career Trend
Viktor Kovalenko Shot Maps
Viktor Kovalenko Shot Summary
In the 2023-2024 season, Viktor Kovalenko took 11 shots, scoring 1 goals. This output came from an Expected Goals (xG) of 0.93, averaging 0.08 xG per shot.
Right Foot: 1 goals from 8 shots. A 12.5% conversion rate. 0.09 xG per shot.
Left Foot: 0 goals from 3 shots. A 0.0% conversion rate. 0.07 xG per shot.
Headers: 0 goals from 0 headed attempts. A 0% conversion rate. 0 xG per shot.
