The Player Analyst

Javi Guerra

A tall, intelligent midfielder who rose through the ranks at Valencia, Guerra is on many clubs’ books, including Newcastle United, Manchester United, and most of all, AC Milan. The 22 year old’s build allows him to bully opponents on the ball, whilst maintaining his archetypal Spanish midfield traits of footwork, elegance and ball-carrying.

What would usually be considered a less favourable fixture this weekend, can now be treated with a bit more confidence, as opponents Atlético Madrid have this game sandwiched between their semi-final tie against Arsenal in the Champions League. Atlético manager Diego Simeone has recognised his clubs inability to progress or falter in the league, as Barcelona have wrapped up the title race, and Real Betis are 10 points behind in 5th. Atléti will rotate massively, as their game on Tuesday decides their season. Valencia will look to take advantage of this, where I see Javi Guerra running the game against the youthful visitors, possibly gaining a point or 3 to take them further away from the incredible 9-team relegation fight in La Liga.

Fisnik Asllani

Hold up play? Check. Two-footed? Check. Perfect movement? Check. This forward tore up the league for Elversberg in the second division, before returning to Hoffenheim, where he has registered 10 goals and 6 assists in the Bundesliga. He has every attribute of a top-level striker, but what has caught the eye most, has to be his composure. Long-range, surrounded by 4 defenders, or 1-on-1 with the goalkeeper, Asllani rarely fails in these scenarios, making him a valuable asset to any team that needs goals.

It is no understatement to say that this fixture is pivotal. Hoffenheim host Stuttgart in a direct fight for Champions League qualification. Both teams on 57 points, with Leipzig ahead and Leverkusen behind (who also happen to be playing each other this weekend!), either team taking 3 points today would be huge. Whilst Stuttgart have been here before, the home side are looking to cap off an excellent season with UCL football secured. I imagine Asllani will look to drag his team over the line, before possibly moving on to one of the many clubs interested, including FC Barcelona.

Yankuba Minteh

One of the most skillful players in the English top flight, Yankuba Minteh has an outstanding ability to beat his man in any scenario. He can dominate the line on either side of the pitch, pressing his opposition winger with intent, then flying up the field to create an opportunity. Give this man the eye test, and he will pass it every time. A phenomenal footballer, playing the role of the winger how it’s meant to be played, showcased by his 169 touches in the opposition’s box this season, the 4th best in the entire league.

This weekend, Minteh will once again look to show his former club what they missed, after scoring against Newcastle in 2 of their last 3 meetings. Brighton are in excellent form, currently leading the form table (last 5 matchweeks) in the Premier League. They sit in 6th place, capitalising on the chaotic state of Chelsea and aiming to keep hold of top 6, giving them a chance of UCL football next season (if Aston Villa finish 5th and win the Europa League).