17-year-old Leny Yoro is establishing himself as an important player for Lille this season. The young defender is an extremely confident ball player with an extensive passing range.
Figure 1.1
Figure 1.2
Figures 1.1 and 1.2 taken from the recent game against Le Havre are a good example of how Yoro likes to play mid-long range passes out to the wide areas. This is typical when Lille are looking to build an attack from the back. Should Lille not be able to break through the opposition's defensive structure, they will recycle possession by playing it back to the defensive line where Yoro will look to play a pass to the wide areas once again.
Figure 1.3
The above graphic demonstrates how accurate Yoro is with his passing. According to Wyscout, the Lille defender averages 66.63 passes per 90 with an accuracy rating of 93.98%. This includes 21.1 forward passes per 90 with an accuracy rating of 90.08%, and 4.71 long passes with an accuracy rating of 59.26%.
Figure 1.4
Yoro is capable of playing some very useful progressive passes as the graphic above demonstrates. He averages 6.8 progressive passes per 90 with an accuracy rating of 74.36%. Whilst this is certainly not the highest number of progressive passes per 90 of centre-backs in Ligue 1, I expect Yoro’s progressive output to increase as the season progresses.
Lille averages 61.72% possession and Yoro’s passing abilities often help the team retain possession by circulating the ball well and making intelligent decisions under pressure. His composure on the ball and ability to switch the play when necessary can often frustrate opponents and help to ensure Lille retain possession.
Additionally, when faced with high-pressing opponents, Yoro’s abilities on the ball can be a valuable asset. By delivering precise mid-long passes or switches of play, he can bypass the opposition press. This gives Lille the potential to move the ball up the field quickly and effectively.
