I will admit that until I wrote my article last month on Serge Aurier being a potential replacement for ex-Arsenal winger Bacary Sagna I’d never heard of him. How things can change in the space of mere weeks. It would seem, particularly in light of his recent performances for Côte d’Ivoire in the World Cup, that his name is never far from anyone’s lips; even more so when mentioned in transfer gossip linking him to Arsenal. Much to the bemusement of my family, who evidently thought I’d completely lost the plot, I stayed up to watch Côte d’Ivoire’s opening game against Japan. Even my protestations about being intrigued by all the hype surrounding Aurier and a desire to check the man out himself couldn’t dig me out of that one. However, I’m pleased to report I wasn’t disappointed by what I witnessed that Sunday morning.
Aurier’s currently in fifth place in Squawka’s World Cup rankings for overall performance – the highest ranked defender overall and standing at least a head above the next ranked defender for his attacking prowess. To put his attacking execution into perspective Aurier sits immediately below Daniel Sturridge; outdone by one measly point. Having played the full 90 minutes in both World Cup games to date his pass accuracy stands at 84%, this is surpassed by his tackle (6 –100%) and take-ons (6 – 86%) success in duels won. It would appear that only aerial duels (3 – 38%) are a potential weakness. His shot accuracy (3 – inside area) is 100%. Oh, and just in case you think I’ve forgotten, yes Aurier was the assist in both goals scored against Japan.
Aurier, from what I’ve seen so far, has both speed and stamina; he’s definitely a key player for his national team. Although billed as a full back for Côte d’Ivoire Aurier appears to have spent more time on the right wing, a role he’s managed to succeed in during his time with Toulouse. He also seems as happy playing in an attacking role as he does in defence. I don’t know about you but I’m rooting for Côte d’Ivoire to get through the Group stage. If only so I can see more of Aurier whom I believe is just the type of attacking defender Arsenal could use to their advantage. You can’t have failed to miss some of his magnificent crosses into the box for Côte d’Ivoire. Don’t forget to add to that his six goals and six assists for Toulouse in the 2013/14 season (as opposed to Sagna who scored one goal and managed two assists for Arsenal). Giroud scored 16 goals for Arsenal in the 2013/14 season – can you imagine how many more he could potentially score with Aurier in position to assist? I just hope that Arsenal is as keen on Aurier joining the 2014/15 squad, as Aurier would appear to be in playing for Arsenal. In my mind Aurier definitely has more attack than Sagna.