Analytics United have released a brand new column in which they have analysed and used data in order to break down what new signing Aaron Wan Bissaka can offer the Hammers.
Wan Bissaka has joined West Ham from Manchester United signing a long term contract in East London. The 26 year old spent five years at United where he won both the FA Cup as well as the EFL Cup.
The Croydon born fullback came through the ranks at fellow London club Crystal Palace. Wan Bissaka would make his first team debut for the Eagles in the 2017/18 Premier League season. In his time at Palace, the 26 year old certainly made a mark and established a reputation as a phenomenal one versus one defender and one of the toughest tackling fullbacks in the league.
In the Premier League, his tackle success rate last season of 73.1% was only bettered by Ben Davies of Tottenham and Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa, highlighting just how impressive as well as consistent his tackling ability is.
With new Hammers boss Lopetegui expected at times to play a back three whilst in possession, this could see the fullback tuck slightly inwards from his natural position next to Jean Clair Todibo and Max Kilman in order to combine as a strong back three all equally as strong in duels and all with excellent tackling statistics.
On the ball, his 27.24 short passes per 90 minutes over the past year sees the 26 year old rank amongst the top 17% in Europe, he also ranks amongst the same percentile for his overall pass completion percentage. In regards to his dribbling, although he may not progress the ball forward as often as others, when he does drive with the ball and gets past his man he keeps possession more than most. His statistics see Wan Bissaka rank amongst the top 11% in the top five leagues for keeping the ball whilst attempting take ons.
All in all, Wan Bissaka is an excellent signing for West Ham. His first class defensive abilities will provide balance in a Hammers squad that is blessed with a number of exciting attacking talents. Additionally, the fullback’s reliability on the ball has great potential to work well as a part of Julen Lopetegui’s system.
