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Top five Under-23 players at the 2018 World Cup

By Benjamin Barkworth

PARIS, FRANCE - MARCH 23: Duvan Zapata of Colombia and Kylian Mbappe of France fight for the ball during the international friendly match between France and Colombia at Stade de France on March 23, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)
PARIS, FRANCE - MARCH 23: Duvan Zapata of Colombia and Kylian Mbappe of France fight for the ball during the international friendly match between France and Colombia at Stade de France on March 23, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images.
Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images. /

Gabriel Jesus

The young Brazilian terrorised Premier League defences in his second season in England. Manchester City dominated the league with 100 points as Pep Guardiola’s philosophy brought stunning results. They had a wealth of attacking talent, so the individual achievements could go unnoticed due to the excellence of the collective. However, Jesus provided strong competition for the experienced Sergio Aguero with Guardiola even altering the set-up at times in order to get them both in the starting XI.

His transition to the Premier League has been quick considering he is only 21-years-old. He scored 13 goals and turned creator for three in 1673 Premier League minutes. His time in the Champions League was also impressive because he scored four in 618 minutes. Most importantly for Jesus, he understands his role in Guardiola’s system. His interpretation of space is key as well as his role as the first line of defence through high pressing, counter-pressing and cutting off passing lanes depending on the in-game scenario.

Jesus’ role in Brazil’s system is a lot more simplistic and traditional due to the limited time coaches have with international teams. Tite has done an excellent job since coming in because he has mixed the traditional Brazilian flair with a balanced structured. Therefore, giving them the best of both worlds, which makes them one of the favourites going into the World Cup.

In 1170 minutes for Brazil, Jesus has scored nine goals and assisted five. The majority of them came in qualifying which is significant because South America is the toughest area to come through due to the strong competition. He has all the tools to impress in this tournament, but he will have strong competition for the role from Roberto Firmino.

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