**Al Sadd's Akram Afif: A Season Rating Analysis**
**Season Rating Breakdown**
Akram Afif's 2023-2024 season for Al Sadd was a blend of brilliance and moments of inconsistency, earning him a solid overall rating of 7.8 out of 10. This places him comfortably among the top performers in the league, though slightly below the league leaders. His ability to influence games with his vision and creativity has made him a standout asset, but there's room for improvement, especially in maintaining consistency across the season.
**Key Contributions**
Afif played a pivotal role in Al Sadd's campaign, contributing 12 goals and 22 assists. His ability to create chances out of thin air and his precise passing have been instrumental in breaking down opposition defenses. A standout moment came in the thrilling 3-3 draw against Al Hilal, where Afif's composure under pressure and clever through balls were crucial. His leadership on the pitch, especially in the final third, has made him a key figure in Al Sadd's attacking play.
**Strengths**
Afif's primary strength lies in his exceptional technical ability. His close control, dribbling skills, and vision make him a nightmare for defenders. He excels at finding teammates in advanced positions, with an impressive 85% pass completion rate. His ability to read the game and execute precise through balls has been a game-changer for Al Sadd. Additionally, his work rate and defensive contributions, while not his strongest suit, have improved over the season, offering more depth to his game.
**Weaknesses**
Despite his many strengths, Afif has faced challenges this season. His finishing has been inconsistent,Saudi Pro League Hotspot with several missed opportunities that could have led to more goals. Additionally, he can be seen as a bit too deferential at times, allowing opponents to press him. Defensively, he can be drawn out of position, leaving gaps that opponents exploit. Addressing these areas will be crucial for him to take the next step in his career.
**Playing Style**
Afif's style mirrors Al Sadd's philosophy of possession-based football. He thrives in a high-pressing game, using his quick thinking to disorganize defenses and create transitions. His ability to link defense and attack seamlessly is a hallmark of his game. While he's primarily a playmaker, he can also contribute defensively, occasionally tracking back to help his team.
**Future Outlook**
Looking ahead, Afif's consistent performance this season could see him earn a place in Qatar's national team for upcoming tournaments. His adaptability and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset both on and off the pitch. With more experience and a focus on consistency, Akram Afif could become one of the league's top players, leading Al Sadd to further success.
In conclusion, Akram Afif's 2023-2024 season has been a successful one, highlighting his potential to become a top-tier player. While he has shown glimpses of excellence, there's still room for growth, particularly in maintaining consistency and contributing more defensively. Al Sadd will undoubtedly be looking to build on his performance in the coming seasons, with Akram Afif at the heart of their attacking ambitions.