Mamadou Sarr, athletic and comfortable on both sides, Real Sociedad’s new centre-back | OneFootball

Real Sociedad have turned to Mamadou Sarr to reinforce centre-back. The France-born Senegal international is 1.94 metres and 77 kilos, a high-upside work in progress after 18 appearances last season.

Right-footed but often described as ambidextrous, he played both sides for Strasbourg, helping keep Jon Martín on the right. "It is amazing that at 19 he could show that level and such calm against strong opponents. If he stays humble, he will be a top player for sure," said Liam Rosenior to The Athletic.

Lean and quick, he recovers well and suits a high press. In France’s more open league he defended the box convincingly and clears without fuss, while aerial dominance is not his main strength.

Formerly a pivot in Lyon’s academy and for France youth sides, he now stands out among centre-backs for long passing off either foot and line-breaking carries. He turns 21 this Saturday, experience that should refine his choices.

The concern is continuity and fitness. Chelsea, under the same ownership as Strasbourg, recalled him in February and hired his coach Liam Rosenior, then he played only three times. His biggest outing was the Champions League last 16 against Paris Saint-Germain, subbed at half-time with the game 0-2 and the tie 2-7. He has 55 pre-season minutes, missed Chelsea and Johor friendlies, is listed with a knock, and on Monday was absent from Xabi Alonso’s squad to face Arbeloa’s Fulham.

Source: Diario Vasco

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