Sunday, November 20, 2022

World Cup player profile: Ecuador's Pervis Estupinan

Ecuador left-back Pervis Estupinan moved during the summer transfer window from Villarreal to Brighton, and has proven that he has the ability to shine in the Premier League. Estupinan constantly bombs forward from the left flank, sprays dangerous balls into the box, and presses the opposition high up the pitch.

For La Tri, he is responsible for being one of the main creators, a role that suits him well. He ranks in the top ten percent of Premier League full backs in expected assists, chances created, passes into the penalty area, and shot-creating actions. A constant outlet in possession out wide, he ranks in the top ten percent of the league in progressive passes received, which reflects well on the positions he finds himself in. This bodes well for Ecuador as he will be playing on the left alongside Piero Hincapie, their primary ball-playing defender.

Estupinan is well-rounded, also displaying his abilities defensively. As he pushes up the pitch, he is extremely effective in the high counter-press. He is among the top five percent of Premier League full backs in both tackles won in the final third and total interceptions. He is a capable aerial defender as well, ranking in the top 20 percent in aerial duels won among full backs.

Overall, Estupinan is arguably Ecuador's most talented player. He contributes in almost every facet of the game, and is sometimes tasked with the responsibility of taking set pieces as well. If Ecuador is to escape their group, there is a good chance that he is one of the key reasons behind it.

2022 FIFA World Cup predictions