A little on Manquillo for those interested - have followed him since he was 16 and watched many times for Atleti, Atleti B, youth teams and at youth level for Spain.



First of all, I've seen a lot of people for whatever reason comparing him to Arbeloa/Azpilicueta which is pretty wide of the mark. For me, Manqui is more of an attacking full-back than a defensive one although is more than comfortable doing both.



His best attribute in my opinion is his athleticism, has great strength, pace and power and uses all to good affect. I'd recommend watching games from the U20 World Cup last year where he and Deulofeu played on the right for Spain, Manquillo was bombing forward at every opportunity and was one of the most impressive defenders at the tournament. Always available for one-twos, offering the overlap, running at players and even getting in to the box.



He reads the game well and is strong in the tackle, and having been involved with Atleti's first team since 2011 I've really noticed how far he's benefited and progressed from being coached alongside the best defence in Spain. He stepped in seamlessly in most games he played last season, although got a bad neck injury against Real Madrid in February and hasn't played since (now fully fit).



Weaknesses, as with many young players would include decision making. He's a good crosser in terms of technique but doesn't always make the right choice, although will put in some fantastic balls from time to time. In defence you do get the odd rash challenge as well, I think he gave away two penalties in first team matches last year which is perhaps why Simeone didn't trust him more, but it all comes with experience and I don't see any of this hindering him.



The other thing I've noticed is he often seems keen to release the ball quickly when in possession, not 100% sure if this is due to a lack of confidence in possession or his direct style of play though.



Definitely not the finished article but for me that is what makes him such an exciting prospect, he has the highest ceiling of any young right-back and I can think of and all the ingredients to become a massive player, sooner rather than later. Really see his style suiting the Premier League and he has the hunger to force his way into the team and make an impression. If the buy-out clause of €6m is true then it's an absolute steal, I'd pay that for him now.

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