Milinković-Savić's Season Ratings at Al Hilal: A Comprehensive Evaluation
# Milinković-Savić's Season Ratings at Al Hilal: A Comprehensive Evaluation
Al Hilal’s 2022-23 season was one of the most competitive in the club’s recent history, and their performance in key competitions, including the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League, was nothing short of impressive. Among the many standout performers, Marko Milinković-Savić quickly became a fan favorite and a pivotal figure in the team’s success. This article evaluates his season ratings, highlighting his contributions, challenges, and overall impact at Al Hilal.
## Attacking Contributions
Milinković-Savić arrived at Al Hilal with a reputation as a versatile attacking midfielder, and this season, he proved his worth. His ability to operate as a false nine, advanced midfielder, or even as a winger in certain situations made him a thorn in the side of Al Hilal’s opponents. He scored an impressive 12 goals, showcasing his clinical finishing ability, and contributed 17 assists, often setting up his teammates with pinpoint crosses and through balls. His goal contribution (12 goals + 17 assists = 29) was among the highest in the league, cementing his status as a key playmaker.
## Defensive Impact
While primarily known for his attacking prowess, Milinković-Savić also played a crucial role in Al Hilal’s defense. His work rate,Football Classic Matches positional awareness, and ability to track back were essential in breaking up opposition plays. He averaged 2.5 tackles per game and made 24 interceptions, often helping Al Hilal regain possession in dangerous situations. His versatility allowed him to fill in as a center-back in emergencies, though he was primarily deployed as a midfielder this season.
## Consistency and Leadership
One of the standout aspects of Milinković-Savić’s season was his consistency. Despite the high demands of Al Hilal’s style of play, he rarely missed a beat and consistently delivered performances of the highest quality. His leadership on and off the pitch was also a big factor. He was seen as a calming influence in the dressing room and led by example, inspiring his teammates to push their limits.
## Areas for Improvement
While Milinković-Savić had an outstanding season, there were moments where he could have been more dominant. Defensively, he occasionally struggled to contain opponents who targeted him due to his attacking responsibilities. Additionally, by the latter stages of the season, fatigue may have affected his performance slightly, though he still delivered moments of brilliance.
## Conclusion
Marko Milinković-Savić’s 2022-23 season at Al Hilal was a masterclass in versatility and leadership. He scored, assisted, defended, and led with equal aplomb, becoming one of the standout performers in the league. His ability to adapt to different roles and his unwavering commitment to the team’s success make him a valuable asset moving forward. As Al Hilal aims for even greater achievements, having a player of Milinković-Savić’s quality in their squad will be crucial.