Who is Oscar Zambrano? The 19-year-old wonderkid wanted by Barcelona
Tom Weber
- 27 Jul 2023 13:23 CDT
- 3 min read
Oscar Zambrano could soon become the latest Ecuadorian gem to get a big-money move.
The 19-year-old was ever-present in his country's squad at the U20 World Cup and subsequently caught the attention of FC Barcelona. The Blaugrana are just one of many sides interested in the midfielder, but who is he and how good is he really?
What position does Zambrano play?
Oscar Zambrano is a tenacious defensive midfielder.
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How good is Zambrano?
A regular with LDU Quito in his native Ecuador, the 19-year-old already has plenty of first-team experience under his belt, having made his debut for the 11-time champions in 2021.
At the U20 World Cup in Argentina, he played the full 90 in all four of Ecuador's games and showed off his solid skillset. More impressive than that, however, was his physicality and athleticism. Despite boasting an average frame, the 176 cm (5 ft 9 in) midfielder knows how to throw his weight around and assert himself.
Quick off the mark and capable of getting the ball up the pitch, it's not hard to see why Zambrano is a sought-after commodity. Indeed, already in 2022, the teenager had a trial at Ajax.
🇪🇨Óscar Steven Zambrano Preciado
🏟LDU Quito
👤Defensive Midfielder
Ecuador may have scored 12 goals at U20 World Cup (Highest) but Zambrano is one to have caught my eye.
His discipline and awareness combined with terrific passing ability is fantastic.
The Unsung Hero 🦸♂️ pic.twitter.com/WboaeuEJYb— António Mango (@AntonioMango4) May 27, 2023
What clubs are interested in Zambrano?
Most prominently linked in recent times have been Barcelona - the Catalan one, not their Ecuadorian namesake. Spanish media report that the Blaugrana are very keen indeed on the youngster and that he could slot straight into the first team now that Sergio Busquets is gone and given the sizeable fee he would command.
Zambrano is, however, also being pursued in other countries. An unnamed Portuguese club - believed to be Porto - is said to be 'bidding hard' for the Quito starlet. MLS sides are also keen, with the Colorado Rapids previously credited with an interest in the player, as are West Ham and Crystal Palace.
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How old is Zambrano?
Zambrano was born on April 20, 2004, making him 19 years old.
What is Zambrano's Instagram?
His Instagram is oscar_zambrano5 and has 11.4k followers as of July 2023.
