Cengiz Ünder's Defensive Impact Assessment: Marseille's Midfielder's Defensive Contributions

# Cengiz Ünder's Defensive Impact Assessment: Marseille's Midfielder's Defensive Contributions

Cengiz Ünder, the Turkish international who joined Olympique Marseille in the summer of 2021, has quickly established himself as a pivotal player for the French club. Known for his attacking prowess, Ünder has also made significant contributions on the defensive end of the pitch. This article delves into the defensive impact of the midfielder, analyzing his contributions to Marseille's backline.

## Positional Awareness and Marking

One of Ünder's most notable defensive attributes is his exceptional positional awareness. The 25-year-old often tracks back to support Marseille's defense, ensuring that he is always within striking distance of his teammates. His ability to mark opposition wingers effectively has been crucial in preventing them from finding space in the final third.

## Clearances and Interceptions

Ünder has shown a remarkable capacity for making crucial clearances and interceptions. His anticipation and timing are second to none, allowing him to disrupt opponents' play and win back possession for his team. In the 2021-2022 season, he has made an average of 2.3 clearances and 1.5 interceptions per game, which highlights his defensive influence.

## Tackles and Dribbles Disrupted

The Turkish midfielder has also been effective in disrupting opponents' dribbles. With a total of 2.2 tackles per game, Ünder has been instrumental in breaking down the attacking momentum of his opponents. His physicality and determination make him a formidable opponent for any forward.

## Conclusion

Cengiz Ünder's defensive contributions have been a vital component of Marseille's success in the 2021-2022 season. His ability to track back, make crucial clearances, and disrupt opponents' play has been instrumental in solidifying Marseille's backline. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Ünder continues to evolve as a defensive midfielder and further enhance his already impressive résumé.