Midseason Review: How Has Andre Gomes Done So Far with Everton?

With the January Transfer Window officially closed, we thought it would be a great time to see how Everton’s summer signings have faired thus far.

First up on our list is Barcelona loanee, Andre Gomes. Back in November, we took a look at Andre Gomes and see how he faired through 3 matches. We now have a bigger sample size of 19 matches to use and to see how Andre Gomes has done with Everton.

When Gomes first arrived at Everton in the summer, there was much hype surrounding the Barcelona player. Of course, any Barcelona player coming to Everton will cause quite a stir.

But Gomes was different. Only a few years back, he was projected to be the next big thing. The player to be the heir to Iniesta. Unfortunately for Gomes, he failed to make such an impacted while at Camp Nou.

Psychological issues and injuries derailed his career at Barcelona and the beginning for his Everton career as well. But since overcoming his early-season injury, Gomes has been a much-needed addition to Everton’s midfield.

What Does Andre Gomes Bring to Everton?

Andre Gomes has had a handle full of moments so far as a Toffee. He offers a bit of finesse to the Everton midfield that it sorely lacks.

Usually lined up next to Idrissa Gana Gueye, Gomes tends to drift on to the left side of the pitch. He is in position as part of the pivot in the 4-2-3-1 formation favored by manager Marco Silva this season.

Gomes’ task is to drive Everton up the pitch from connecting the defense to the attackers. He does particularly well in this position. Let’s take a look at an example.

Liverpool vs Everton

Now having 5 matches behind him, Gomes put on a display off his class early and often in this match. He dominated the midfielder with sleek, skillful moves that kept Everton with possession of the ball and moved into attacking areas. The pressing from Liverpool rarely fazed the Portuguese youngster resulting in an 82.2% passer rating.

Andre Gomes Passing Stats vs Liverpool

Below is a small clip from the match where Gomes regained possession and helped Everton keep it as well. This was a constant sighting during the Liverpool match.

People base a player on how good their stats can be like goals and assists. With Gomes, you will not receive high tallies. More likely, Evertonians should expect around 5 goals and 5 assists per campaign. But that is because of the type of player he is.

Gomes can escape pressure, keep possession and spray a pass forward to the attackers every now and then. Take a look at the example below against Watford.

Like we said before, his main task is to connect the defense to the attackers. He does this very well and will only continue to get better with confidence. If Everton move to a 4-3-3, Gomes can fit will into that formation in the midfield. But we do wish to see more of this ….

What Doesn’t Andre Gomes Bring to Everton?

Depending on what Evertonian you ask this question too, you will receive mixed reviews. Inconsistency is one thing said about Andre Gomes.

Gomes is a player that needs quality players around him to bring out his best. When Everton was on top of their game, so was Gomes. But when things started to go south and the squad had a dip in form, so did Gomes.

Gomes has confidence issues dating back to Barcelona. So do not expect Gomes to be a vocal leader of men type of player.

Andre Gomes doesn’t defend or shield the Everton defense fairly well either. Granted, it’s not something we should be expecting him to do, but he does try his best.

So How Has He Fared and Should Everton Resign Him?

Everton should be negotiating with Barcelona right now to sign Andre Gomes on a permanent deal. With transfer market prices inflated, spending £25 million for the Portuguese midfielder would be good business.

Sure there are cheaper, unknown options out there. But the potential and skills that Gomes processes, you might not get that anywhere else.

Gomes has been a welcomed addition to Everton and it’s hard to imagine where Everton would be if they didn’t sign him on loan.

7.5/10 Midseason Rating

What would you rate Andre Gomes’ after seeing half a seasons worth of football? Let us know in the comments.

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