3 key qualities Julian Gressel will bring to Minnesota United | OneFootball

Julian Gressel's move to Minnesota United, reported first by GiveMeSport at last week's primary transfer window deadline, was finally made official early this week.

Here's what Loons fans can expect from their new versatile wide man, who will probably play as a wingback for Eric Ramsay's 5-3-2 after he fell out of favor with Miami boss Javier Mascherano.

Elite crossing

Gressel has always been an above-average assist man, based primarily on his elite crossing ability. He has a career MLS average of 0.31 primary assists per 90 minutes, and he has hit more than 100 crosses in every season since his second pro campaign in 2018.

That includes 290 with D.C. United in 2021, and 218 between D.C. and Vancouver in 2022. That kind of volume will be welcome for Ramsay, whose side is averaging about 15 crosses a match, with Joaquin Pereyra and Joseph Rosales as the top providers.

Big-Game Expericence

Gressel should immediately command respect inside the Loons dressing room just because of his history of winning big matches.

Gressel has won two MLS Cups -- one each with Atlanta United and the Columbus Crew -- a Supporters' Shield with Inter Miami and a Canadian Championship with Vancouver.

Even though the Loons already have veterans in Robin Lod, Michael Boxall and Wil Trapp, none have won a major domestic trophy with an MLS side, and only Trapp has been to a major final.

Balance and versatility

While he's not the same kind of player as Joaquin Pereyra, Gressel will bring balance to the Loons XI as a right-footed service provider, with Pereyra more comfortable playing on the left with his left foot.

And while Ramsay has been fairly loyal to the 5-3-2 so far, the fact both Pereyra and Gressel have also played in central midfield can give the Loons some other options if they want to be more ball-dominant at times. Currently, Minnesota has averaged the lowest possession figure in MLS at 37.9