Chris Lokesa Scout Report
Chris Lokesa is a promising young talent plying his trade in the Eredivisie with RKC Waalwijk. At just 19, the Belgian is showing impressive versatility, with the ability to play across both wings as well as central midfield, but it's his time spent as a left winger that has caught the eye. An assertive ball retriever, his ball recovery statistics place him in the top 20% among his peers, a slightly surprising but nonetheless commendable trait for a winger. His ball retention stats also impress, earning him a place in the top third of his competitors.
However, the rising star needs to improve in creating chances and his assist ratio, both of which are below average. Astonishingly, despite his low goal efficiency and limited goal-scoring ratio per 90 minutes—being in the bottom 10%—he poses quite the goal threat. His potential is evident in his Shots per 90 and expected Goals (xG) per 90, which are in the top third and top quartile, respectively. So, if he can sharpen his finishing skills, the goals will undoubtedly follow.
On the downside, Lokesa's successful dribbles ratio and the accuracy of his crosses need significant improvement, with both metrics being noticeably below average. His proficiency in progressive carrying of the ball is also mediocre at best. Although his pass accuracy per 90 isn't that promising, his progressive passing attribute is commendable, implying a knack for contributing to his team's forward momentum.
Clearly, Lokesa is a young player with a compelling mix of skills and a huge upside, but there's room for growth and refinement. Work on his weak areas, and he could evolve into a dominant force in European football.