Harry Winks: Unveiling the Potential Impact of Mauricio Pochettino’s Insights

The Arrival of Harry Winks and the Potential Impact on Leicester City

Introduction

Leicester City has announced their first signing under new manager Enzo Maresca, securing the services of Harry Winks from Tottenham Hotspur. The midfielder, who spent the previous season on loan at Sampdoria, has agreed to a three-year deal with the Foxes. This article will examine what Winks brings to the table and how he might fit into Maresca’s plans.

Strengths: A Technically Gifted Playmaker

According to Rob Guest, Tottenham Hotspur reporter for football.london, Winks’ main strength lies in his technical abilities on the ball. Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino even compared him to the likes of Xavi and Andres Iniesta due to his passing skills and intelligence. Winks excels at turning and connecting the play when moving forward, making him a valuable asset in Leicester’s midfield, especially if the team intends to play a possession-based style under Maresca.

Furthermore, Winks’ experience in the Premier League, Champions League, and with the England national team will prove invaluable as Leicester aims to regain their place in the Premier League. His international exposure and know-how could see him emerge as a leader within the Leicester squad.

Winks’ time at Sampdoria on loan also helped his development, as he stood out as a shining light in the team’s efforts to avoid relegation from Serie A. This experience likely contributed to his growth as a player, and Leicester will benefit from a midfielder who has faced challenges and demonstrated resilience.

Weaknesses: Improvements Needed Off the Ball

Guest notes that one area Winks could work on is his play off the ball. While his technical prowess is undeniable, honing his positioning and movement without possession could benefit his overall game. Additionally, Winks has been plagued by a troublesome ankle injury in recent seasons, which has caused him to miss matches. However, Guest highlights that Winks underwent successful surgery during his loan spell at Sampdoria, resulting in 19 successive starts after his return. This indicates that the surgery has had a positive impact on his game and suggests that he has overcome those injury concerns.

Best Position: A Versatile Midfielder

Winks’ versatility and adaptability are among his strengths. Throughout his career, he has played in various midfield roles. While he has been deployed in a deeper position in the past, the player himself has expressed a preference for playing as a No. 8. This role allows him to utilize his ball control and passing abilities to influence proceedings further up the field. Leicester City will have plenty of options in midfield with Winks’ arrival, enabling Maresca to tailor his tactics to different situations.

Conclusion: A Valuable Addition to Leicester City

Overall, Harry Winks’ arrival at Leicester City presents an exciting prospect for both the player and the club. His technical ability, intelligence on the ball, and experience at the highest levels of the game make him a valuable asset in Leicester’s midfield. While there are areas for improvement, such as his off-the-ball play, Winks’ successful ankle surgery and demonstrable leadership potential bode well for his future with the Foxes. Maresca will have a versatile and talented midfielder at his disposal, capable of influencing the game and adapting to different roles. With the right guidance and support, Harry Winks has the potential to play a significant role in Leicester City’s pursuit of success.