As USMNT fans we have to come to the conclusion that we can’t depend on Tyler Adams to be available. The sooner we realize that the less it will hurt when he’s not with us. In the last year, one player has developed to be the clear favorite to play the 6 when Adams is injured. This is a full scouting report of Johnny Cardoso, and to understand the full scope of his skillset, we need to start with understanding Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis.
Under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini for the 2023/24 season, Real Betis has continued to evolve tactically, maintaining a competitive edge in LaLiga with a robust and adaptable tactical framework. Let’s study the strategic nuances that have characterized Betis' play under Pellegrini's stewardship, accentuating their tactical identity and the key roles of their players.
Strategic Foundation and Formation
Pellegrini has anchored Betis in a versatile 4-2-3-1 formation, a structure that facilitates both stability and flexibility. This system is designed to maximize the strengths of key players and adapt to various game scenarios effectively. At its core, the formation allows Betis to control the midfield through a double pivot, which not only shields the backline but also supports the attacking unit.
Defensive Organization and High Press
Real Betis under Pellegrini is characterized by a disciplined and structured defensive setup. They employ a high-press strategy, particularly evident in their forward and midfield lines attempting to regain possession in the opposition's half swiftly. This high press is calibrated to disrupt opponents' build-up play early, with the team transitioning into a compact shape if the initial press is bypassed. The defensive solidity is further enhanced by the strategic use of full-backs who, while supportive of offensive forays, maintain a balance to mitigate counter-attacks.
Midfield Dynamics and Ball Progression
Central to Pellegrini’s tactics is the pivotal role of the midfield unit. The double pivot, often consisting of technically proficient players, is crucial in transitioning play from defense to attack. These players are tasked with dictating the tempo and circulating the ball, ensuring that it moves efficiently across the pitch. The midfield setup is designed to create numerical advantages in central areas, facilitating controlled ball progression and fostering an environment where creative midfielders can thrive. Here is where Johnny will play the largest role, and for the fans of the USMNT we can take confidence in the fact that Johnny has been trusted early on to play the most important role in Pellegrini’s tactics.
Attacking Fluidity and Width
Offensively, Betis demonstrates considerable fluidity, driven by the dynamic movements of their wingers and the central attacking midfielder. The wide players are integral, stretching defenses and providing crosses, while also capable of cutting inside to create overloads and combine with the central striker. The attacking midfielder, a key figure in this setup, often drops deeper to link play or pushes forward to penetrate defensive lines, offering versatility and unpredictability in attack.
Utilization of Set Pieces and Direct Play
An often underappreciated aspect of Pellegrini's Betis is their efficiency in set pieces. Utilizing the aerial prowess of their players, Betis have developed a reputation for being dangerous from free-kicks and corners, adding an essential dimension to their goal-scoring avenues. Moreover, the team does not shy away from employing direct play strategies when situations favor such an approach, demonstrating Pellegrini’s pragmatic adaptation to the flow of the game.
Real Betis under Manuel Pellegrini in the 2023/24 season showcases a well-rounded tactical approach that blends defensive rigor with creative attacking play. The team's ability to adapt to different tactical challenges without losing their core identity is a testament to Pellegrini’s experienced tactical management. As they strive for consistency in domestic and European competitions, the tactical foundations laid by Pellegrini will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their pursuit of success.
Now that we understand the manager’s wants and needs in order to play with his style, let’s see what has made Johnny the most exciting prospect of the young USMNT core.
Johnny Cardoso, serving as one of the anchor midfielders for Real Betis under Manuel Pellegrini, exhibits characteristics that blend seamlessly with the tactical ethos prescribed by the experienced Chilean coach. His statistical output for the 2023/24 season provides a comprehensive view of his role and effectiveness within the team’s framework.
Just to set the scene, and with the caveat that FotMob ratings are not conclusive… Johnny’s average match rating of 7.56 is currently good for sixth best player in the La Liga behind only Jude Bellingham (8.12), Ilkay Gundogan (7.69), Isco (7.66), Federico Valverde (7.59), and Vinicius (7.58).
Defensive Contributions
Cardoso's defensive metrics are a cornerstone of his contributions to the team. With an average of 2.00 tackles won per game at a success rate of 67.7%, and 2.19 interceptions, he plays a critical role in Betis’ midfield. His ability to win duels, with an 8.17 average and a 63.2% success rate, along with 2.85 aerial duels won per game at a 68.2% rate, emphasizes his strength in physical contests and aerial challenges. These attributes are crucial for maintaining the integrity of Betis' double pivot, allowing them to effectively break up opposition plays and regain possession, which is vital for transitioning into their counter-attacking setup.
Passing and Ball Distribution
Cardoso's role in ball distribution is pivotal, with 34.97 successful passes per game at an 84.2% accuracy rate, including 1.33 accurate long balls per match. His ability to maintain possession and distribute effectively underlines his suitability in a system that values controlled progression of the ball. His role in Pellegrini’s setup likely focuses on transitioning the ball from defense to the more creative players, acting as a foundational piece in the build-up play, particularly through his long ball capabilities which align with Betis’ occasional direct approach.
Attacking and Creative Output
While not primarily an attacking threat, Cardoso’s metrics show modest involvement in Betis’ offensive efforts. With an xG of 0.08 and 0.10 goals scored on average, coupled with 0.86 shots per game, he provides an occasional shooting option from midfield. More importantly, his 0.19 assists and 0.09 expected assists per game, along with creating 0.57 chances per game, highlight his capability to contribute to Betis’ attacking phases, albeit in a supporting role. His ability to link up play and his presence in the opposition box (0.86 touches) add an additional layer to his offensive contributions.
Possession and Playmaking
In terms of possession, Cardoso averages 58.54 touches per game, indicating his active involvement in circulating the ball and being a key part of the team’s midfield engine. His successful dribble rate of 66.7% from 0.95 attempts per game shows he can maintain possession under pressure and navigate tight spaces when necessary.
Defensive Positioning and Discipline
Cardoso's disciplinary record is relatively clean with 0.29 yellow cards per game and no red cards, essential for a player in a pivotal defensive role. His ability to make recoveries (6.84 per game) and win possession in the final third (0.76 per game) further emphasizes his tactical awareness and the defensive responsibility required in Pellegrini's system.
Now that was a lot of numbers and statistics. Now I want to show you the qualitative approach to scouting Johnny instead of the quantitative approach.
Johnny Cardoso's success on the field can be attributed to several key aspects of his gameplay, such as his proactive involvement in various phases of play and his technical abilities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specific actions and traits that contribute to his effectiveness:
Proactive Involvement
Johnny consistently demonstrates excellent spatial awareness. He actively seeks to open space for himself and his teammates by smart positioning, which helps in both defensive cover and in facilitating fluid attacking movements.
He frequently checks to the ball, providing an option for the backline and his fellow midfielders. This movement is crucial in maintaining possession and progressing the play, as it helps Betis bypass pressing opponents and keeps the midfield dynamics fluid.
His readiness to cover for teammates or track back quickly is a testament to his understanding of the game and commitment to the team’s defensive solidity. This ability ensures that the midfield does not become a liability, even when transitioning from attack to defense.
Technical Proficiency
Johnny excels in tight spaces, showing calmness and composure to retain possession even under heavy pressure. His ability to shield the ball and make intelligent lay-offs allows Betis to avoid turnovers in critical areas.
He possesses a refined dribbling skill that enables him to navigate through tight midfield areas. This not only helps in evading pressure but also in breaking the lines of the opposing midfield, creating opportunities for forward progression and attacking plays.
His vision and passing accuracy are key in transitioning the ball from defense to attack. By accurately delivering long balls or intricately threading passes through the midfield, he plays a pivotal role in Betis' ability to switch play or quickly counter-attack.
Tactical Intelligence
Johnny’s ability to read the game allows him to anticipate the opponent's moves, which is crucial for intercepting passes and initiating counter-attacks. His positional sense during different phases of play enhances his effectiveness in both offensive and defensive roles.
Depending on the game situation, Johnny adapts his role effectively—whether it requires pressing high up the pitch, dropping deeper to assist in build-up, or pushing forward to add numbers in attack. This flexibility is a significant asset in Pellegrini's tactical setup.
Impact in Transition
His skills are particularly evident during transitions, where his quick decision-making and ability to move the ball rapidly are invaluable. Whether it's launching a counter-attack or recovering defensively, Johnny’s actions in these phases often dictate the tempo and effectiveness of the team's play.
USMNT Fit
Johnny Cardoso's skill set would likely adapt well to Gregg Berhalter's USMNT, which emphasizes controlled possession and strong midfield play. His ability to maintain possession, coupled with his robust defensive capabilities, would fit into Berhalter's system that often employs midfielders both for their ball-handling and for stabilizing the team defensively.
The main differences compared to his role at Real Betis under Pellegrini would involve adapting to Berhalter's potentially more rigid positional play and the strategic nuances of international soccer, which often demands quicker adaptations and a broader understanding of varying playing styles. At the USMNT, Johnny might also be tasked with a more disciplined role in maintaining team structure and less freedom in roaming or advancing forward, compared to the more dynamic role he might play at Betis.
Hello! Did you enjoy that scouting report? If you did I have two asks of you. The first is that you share this with any soccer-curious or USMNT-curious friends. I would really appreciate your help in growing this content.
The other is checking out my new clothing shop made just for US soccer fans. I have a new shirt in dedication to Johnny Soccer - get it before Copa America to support our boys!
What a write up, Johnny has really improved,I can't wait to see what he can do when he gets an extended look with the USMNT.