Who is Cher Ndour? Man Utd keen on the 'next Paul Pogba'

14 Dec 2022 14:50 GMT
11 min read

Cher Ndour, Benfica, 2022/23 — © ProShots

Manchester United’s quest for a central midfielder could take an unexpected turn, with Benfica’s Cher Ndour falling upon their radar.

But while Erik ten Hag is looking for players to come into his team and immediately excel, the 18-year-old Ndour is a young man who would arrive at Old Trafford as little more than a prospect.

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Nevertheless, the teenager has a big billing. He is already being touted as the natural heir to World Cup winner Paul Pogba, although that is not exactly a resounding reference given the France international’s difficulties at Man Utd over a disappointing five-year spell.

What exactly can Manchester United fans expect of the starlet?

What position does Cher Ndour play?

Ndour is a central midfielder but is very versatile in this role. He typically plays in a box-to-box manner but is a skilful ball player, whether deep or more advanced on the field. Furthermore, he is also capable defensively. This makes him flexible in the exact role he takes up in a team – more so even than Pogba.

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How good is Cher Ndour?

Just how good Ndour is has yet to be determined. At 18, he has only played in the Portuguese second flight and has turned out for Italy’s Under 18 team. Certainly, he is a player with potential.

Ndour rates very well up against midfield opponents in Portugal’s Segunda Division, as the below graphic from data analytics experts SciSports demonstrates. Indeed, a return of 13 goals and one assist this season shows that his raw numbers are promising for a player so young.

He excels particularly in terms of finishing, offensive positioning and dribbling. On the other hand, his passing can still let him down at this level while he also has work to do in order to tidy up the defensive aspects of his game.

Physically, he is quick but needs to build up his stamina levels, something that will come with training.

What clubs want to sign Cher Ndour?

Barcelona have been linked with Ndour but it is Manchester United who are believed to be leading the way to sign the 18-year-old. It is believed that having the same agent as Bruno Fernandes will give the Red Devils the edge.