Scouting Report: Justin Kluivert
Justin Kluivert is at the tender age of 18 years old and already has a lot of billing to live up to in his short career as a footballer. There is no doubt that his career won’t be the same as any other normal football player’s career. Not only was he born with a silver spoon, he has one of the biggest names to carry in Dutch football. Justin is the son of the much acclaimed Dutch footballer Patrick Kluivert, who himself went on to have a glittering footballing career only few people have managed to achieve, most notably
playing for Ajax, Barcelona, and the national team where he is currently the 3 rd top goal scorer. One can imagine the pressures of having such an accomplished father because of the constant comparisons Justin has to face possibly throughout his career. But the greatness lies with him if he can over take his father and his achievements and establishes a brand for himself instead living in his predecessors shadow.
Style of Play: Justin Kluivert came through the much famed Ajax academy which has always been a hub for producing great young talents in Europe such as Johan Cruyff , Marco Van Basten , Denis Bergkamp, and yes, Patrick Kluivert himself.
He is primarily a left winger whose preferred foot is right and occasionally plays RW. When you see him play, the first thing that catches your eye is his ability to run with the ball and not be afraid to take on defenders. He is a very direct player who is excellent on 1v1 situations where he can beat you with pace and skill off the ball. Justin has fantastic control over the ball at his feet with excellent technique like all the other great talents that have come out of the Ajax academy.
In an interview, when Justin was asked about who is his favourite player is, his response was Cristiano Ronaldo. The youngster certainly models his game with the Portuguese style of play, especially the Ronaldo of Manchester United who took the ball on the left wing, ran straight at defenders, does step overs, fakes them, and cuts inside to score the goal. More often than not he can hit the target and his long range shooting ability is special for someone of his age. He is also a good set piece taker which is an
added advantage in this day and age.
Strengths:
1.Dribbling with both feet (Stronger foot is right)
2. Shooting range (Good long shot taker)
3. Technique and Team work
4. Pace and Flair
Weaknesses:
1. Strength
2. Aerial Duels
3. Vision (Which will develop as he matures over a period of time)
Rumoured Clubs to be interested: Barcelona, Manchester United and Arsenal
Final Take: No doubt that whomever has watched Justin play knows that he is one of the more exceptionally talented young players in European football right now and certainly has the qualities to make it at a top level. Will he reach his potential or surpass his father in terms of football and makes a name for himself? Only time can tell if he will fulfil his talent or become just a son of another footballing legend. But for now he has all the qualities to become a star.
Written by,
Amar
Edited by: @DSanchez_8
Photo: Getty