View: Examples of Diego Carlos composure in Aston Villa v Manchester United
Aston Villa defender Diego Carlos’ composure in their 2-2 draw against Manchester United on 23 July is a good sign for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
The 29-year-old Brazilian is certainly a physical presence for Villa at the back, but in their preseason match against United, he displayed good awareness and composure when defending and distributing the ball.
After his big money move from Sevilla, there is certainly plenty of expectation on the defender to deliver in the Premier League and the early indications are good for Villa.
Below (images from Wyscout), Carlos, has Bruno Fernandes (white shirt) running at the Villa goal unchallenged but instead of diving in and Fernandes taking the ball around him, the Villa defender stands off and ensures that the Manchester United playmaker is caught in two minds about what to do.
As the image below shows Carlos steers Fernandes into a congested area that is mainly occupied by Villa players, meaning that any shot is likely going to be blocked, with his body position also ready to block any left-footed attempt from Fernandes.
Finally, the Villa man sees the Manchester United midfielder is caught in two minds about what to do and calmy disposes him before running the ball out to the flank.
It is clear that Fernandes didn’t believe he could get past the Brazilian due to his physical presence, but in fact, the 29-year-old defender didn’t even need to use his pace and power to win the ball back due to the indecision he had caused the United man.
Furthermore, Carlos demonstrated his ability to bring the ball out of defence for Villa and find a progressive pass.
Below the Villa man picks up a short pass off of Emiliano Martínez in the Villa net
He turns out and within two touches has delivered a pinpoint 60-yard pass to the left-wing.
Carlos was completely aware of the options he had before he even received the ball, which is an excellent sign for Steven Gerrard if he wants to play progressive football using his two central defenders.
Time will tell whether the Brazilian will be a success in the Premier League, but if his early performances are anything to go by, then there should be plenty of excitement around Villa Park.
In other Aston Villa news, Carney Chukwuemeka has left the club to join Chelsea.