Yuri Berchiche

Yuri Berchiche, now in his mid-thirties, continues to be a defensive stalwart for Athletic Club, showcasing a style of play that's both robust and reliable. His ability to recover the ball is commendable, often acting as the first line of defence against opposition threats. Berchiche excels in 1v1 duels, consistently frustrating attackers with his tenacity and tactical awareness. His capacity to retain possession is impressive, lending stability to the backline and offering a foundation for his team's build-up play. While his progressive passing remains a key strength, facilitating transitions from defence to attack, his progressive carrying has seen a slight dip, perhaps a nod to his advancing years. Nevertheless, his chance creation ability means he still poses a threat when surging forward. In the penalty area, Berchiche's positioning and timing are invaluable, often thwarting potential goalscoring opportunities. Despite his age, he's a vital cog in Athletic Club's defensive machinery, as noted in various scout reports and player stats.