Finally clicking, HSV gem out on loan wins high praise | OneFootball

At HSV, the long-awaited breakthrough just wouldn’t come. But in Mallorca, Aboubaka Soumahoro finally seems to be turning a corner.

The 21-year-old, who is on loan at Spanish second-division side RCD Mallorca until the end of the season, has increasingly played his way into the spotlight in recent weeks. After two brief substitute appearances, Soumahoro was named in the starting lineup for the 2–0 win over Sabadell. A week later, he completed the full 90 minutes in the 1–0 win away at Real Sociedad B for the first time in almost two years.

Mallorca coach Luis García is particularly impressed by the versatility of his defender. “He is young and has enormous potential,” the 45-year-old told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser. Although originally signed as a center-back, Soumahoro has shown “that he has the ability to adapt to the position on the left.” García especially praised his agility, pace, and mobility.

HSV talent to Mallorca for €5 million?

These qualities are also well known at HSV. Last season, Soumahoro was given one of his few chances in the starting lineup in the North derby against Werder Bremen (3–2). Back then, the left-footer played the first half as a left wing-back in a back five. His pace and technical ability are particularly useful to him in that role.

Photo: Getty Images

García also highlighted these traits. Soumahoro has “ability on the ball” and, thanks to his speed, can also defend large spaces behind him. The Mallorca coach described him as a “modern player” who can be used in several positions. He also praised his mentality.

Physically, however, the 1.84-meter-tall defender still needs to bulk up. At around 78 kilograms, Soumahoro is relatively light for a defensive player of his height. Nevertheless, the loan currently seems to be having exactly the desired effect: after injuries, dips in form, and an unsuccessful loan spell at Saint-Étienne, the talented player is finally getting regular match practice again.

According to Bild, HSV will also receive a six-figure loan fee. In addition, there is a purchase option worth five million euros. Whether that option is exercised, however, will depend heavily on how the coming months unfold.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.