In Senegalese winger Ousseynou Niang, Union St Gilloise have unearthed another hidden gem | OneFootball

There is something so pure about a winger that possess both pace and the ability to dribble past a man. 23-year-old winger Ousseynou Niang is one of those types of wingers. His low center of gravity, coupled with his lightning speed and great feet have been a joy to watchin this years Pro League and in the Europa League. Once again, Union St Gilloise have found themselves a talented player from an unlikely source.

For the past three seasons, Niang has been plying his trade in Latvia. He left Senegal to join up with Auda, where he spent one season. In 19 games for the side he scored four goals, but his performances were clearly enough to impress Riga FC. The side from the Latvian capital brought him to them for the 2023 season. In his first campaign for the club he played 13 times, scoring three goals and grabbing two assists. Yet his 2024 season was the one he really showcased his talents. In 25 games across Europe and domestically he scored seven goals and grabbed three assists.

While recent performances by Latvian sides have shown that the league is certainly worth taking note of, not many are doing their transfer shopping there. Union have a fantastic scouting department and clearly noticed Niang’s ability. Since joining, he has played 28 games, scoring twice and grabbing two assists. While these numbers don’t jump out, beyond the statistics the eye test tells all. Niang is incredibly exciting to watch. His lack of fear and willingness to run at his man is a breath of fresh air in an era where many players are preferring to play it safe and keep hold of the ball.

He suits the gung-ho attitude of Union that has been present since they returned to the top flight a few seasons ago. In addition, his willingness to just entertain is what football should really be about. Breaking down his game to the minute detail, many coaches would argue that he makes poor decisions and could play safer, but that would be to take away from the essence of his game. In many ways, players such as Niang should be allowed to flourish in any system, as they are the reason many of us want to go watch a game of football.

Over the past few weeks, Niang has been one of the highlights for me watching Pro League football. He is entertainment personified and playing for a Union team that may well push Genk and Club Brugge incredibly close for the title come the play-offs.

For me, football could do with more Ousseynou Niangs.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson