Friday, March 29, 2024

Report Card: Joel Campbell

Age: 22
Nationality: Costa Rican
Position: Left Wing / Striker
Squad no. 28
Height: 5ft 10
Interesting Fact:  Costa Rica coach, Ricardo La Volpe said in 2011 when announcing Campbell’s inclusion in the squad: “Who is Messi? Who is Neymar? Gentlemen of the press – I present to you: Campbell. I discovered him playing with cans on the streets of San José”

Joel Campbell has spent the last few seasons out on loan, and after an impressive World Cup, Arsene Wenger has decided to keep him around. At 22, Campbell must take his chance this season, or probably will not have a future at the Emirates. He’s got great pace and can play on the left wing or through the middle. He’s now amassed an incredible 38 caps for Costa Rica and managed 10 goals in those games, certainly a good record for someone of his age.

How much will he play?

It doesn’t look like Joel Campbell will be a regular for Arsenal this season. With Lukas Podolski staying at the Emirates, Arsene Wenger has many options to play on the left hand side. Consdiering Campbell hasn’t yet been played through the middle; it’s hard to believe he’ll get a chance later in the season, unless injuries begin to mount. I hope he gets chances, and he probably will in Cup games or off the bench occasionally.

How well will he do?

So far Campbell is yet to gain Arsene Wenger’s trust. The Costa Rican has barely played in the seasons opening games, but if he gets his chance, I’m sure he’ll do well. Whilst his technical game is not really built for Arsenal’s style, he certainly has plenty to offer. He’s quick and a very good finisher. If used well and given a run of games, Campbell could excel at Arsenal. At the moment I fear he might be neglected by Wenger and allowed to leave in January.

Read: Report cards for the whole Arsenal squad

Pace: 8/10
Finishing: 7/10
Dribbling: 8/10
Passing: 6/10
Heading: 5/10
Stamina: 6/10

Current value: £10million
Potential value: £30million
Overall Rating: 7/10

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