AEK’s Strategic Choice: Marko Grujić as the Ideal Defensive Midfielder
AEK is on the verge of finalizing two crucial signings ahead of the UEFA registration deadline, with the Serbian midfielder Marko Grujić emerging as the prime candidate for the pivotal defensive midfield role. At 29 years old, Grujić perfectly aligns with the profile sought by coach Marko Nikolić, who envisions a player capable of anchoring the midfield with both defensive solidity and technical finesse. The Serbian international is eager to rejuvenate his career through this new chapter with AEK, aiming to return to top-tier football.
Why Grujić Fits Nikolić’s Midfield Blueprint
Grujić embodies the qualities that Nikolić prioritized for the “number six” position: a midfielder with robust physical attributes who excels defensively, yet also possesses refined ball-handling skills. His ability to shield the defense while orchestrating play and controlling tempo makes him a dual-threat in midfield. Nikolić, sharing Serbian roots with Grujić, has long monitored his progress, initially considering him during the summer transfer window. Although earlier negotiations were hindered by circumstances at Porto, the player’s diminished role there has paved the way for this transfer.
Career Highlights and the Quest for Renewal at AEK
Marko Grujić’s career trajectory is notable. He was Jurgen Klopp’s inaugural signing at Liverpool in 2016, acquired for €7 million from Red Star Belgrade, reflecting the club’s faith in his potential. Despite limited impact in the Premier League, Grujić gained valuable experience on loan at Hertha Berlin before securing a permanent move to Porto in 2020 for €9 million. At Porto, he contributed to multiple domestic triumphs, including league titles and cup victories, amassing over 140 appearances.
However, recent seasons have been challenging. Grujić lost his starting spot two years ago and suffered an Achilles injury last season, restricting his playing time. Under coach Francesco Farioli, he found himself out of favor, prompting a search for a fresh start. AEK represents an opportunity for Grujić to reset his career trajectory and reestablish himself at a high competitive level, a sentiment echoed by Nikolić in recent statements without explicitly naming the player.
Statistical Profile: Grujić’s Impact Through the Lens of Wyscout
Analyzing Grujić’s performance data on Wyscout reveals a midfielder with impressive technical and defensive metrics. His career passing accuracy stands at 86.8%, underscoring his reliability in possession. He averages four long passes per game with a 63.5% success rate, and completes over eight passes into the final third at 76% accuracy. Additionally, he attempts more than 13 progressive passes per match, maintaining a 76.8% success rate, and delivers approximately 1.3 passes into the opponent’s penalty area with 58.2% precision.
Grujić’s dribbling ability is also significant, with three attempts per game and a 62.1% success rate, highlighting his comfort on the ball. Offensively, he averages 1.5 shots per match and engages in nearly seven attacking duels, winning half of them. Defensively, he excels with an average of 10 ball recoveries per game, 42.8% of which occur in the opponent’s half, demonstrating his proactive pressing. He also records 4.43 interceptions per game, wins 44.5% of second-ball challenges, and boasts a 63.3% success rate in aerial duels, aided by his 1.91-meter stature and physical prowess.
Looking Ahead: Grujić’s Role in AEK’s Ambitions
With his blend of defensive grit and technical skill, Marko Grujić is poised to become a cornerstone of AEK’s midfield. His arrival signals the club’s intent to strengthen the spine of the team and compete effectively on both domestic and European fronts. As Grujić prepares to undergo medical examinations in Athens, fans and analysts alike anticipate how his experience and attributes will translate into AEK’s tactical framework.