Ignasi Miquel – hit or miss?

Ignasi Miquel is a Spanish centre-back who is currently plying his trade at Arsenal. He is a tall defender who captains the Arsenal reserves and was rewarded with 2 starts in the FA Cup last season.

What kind of player is Miquel?

Miquel is a cultured defender in the Gerard Pique mould, both are tall defenders who are good in the air, yet also comfortable playing the ball out from defence. The young Spanish defender is also noticeably tall, standing at an imposing 6’4”. The official website praises Miquel’s reading of the play, and this is a part of the game in which Miquel excels. Arsenal’s drawing of League One outfit Leyton Orient in the FA Cup last season presented Miquel with an opportunity, which he took, to show what he is made of. Making your first-team debut in a vociferous away game is daunting enough, but having to do it whilst partnered with Squillaci in defence and Almunia in goal is the stuff of nightmares.

What’s his history?

Arsenal fans look away now – Ignasi Miquel is a product of the Barcelona Academy. After the last few seasons and the acrimonious transfer of club captain Cesc Fabregas to the Spanish club, I’m sure most Gunners would rather not have another Barcelona product in the first team any time soon. Yet, Miquel was released by the Catalans and forged his way to Arsenal via Cornella. He captained the reserves soon after arriving despite the language barrier, a clear sign he was rated by the club. Not only was last season a big season domestically for Miquel, but it was also a glorious one internationally with the Spaniard playing every minute of Spain’s U19 European triumph in the summer.

What was his ‘break out match’?

I would attest that his breakout game was the FA Cup replay against Leyton Orient at The Emirates, where Arsenal won 5-0. He was shaky in the away game, but looked a lot more assured in front of the home fans.

What is his likely valuation?

Still very raw, it is likely that around £1 million could gain the services of the young Spanish defender.

How much could he be worth?

Defenders tend to garner diminished transfer fees in comparison to attackers, and as such around £10 million would be a likely estimate if Miquel matures into the player Wenger hopes.

Hit or miss?

Miss – Despite his international success and Wenger’s trust Miquel still looks incredibly error-prone, and can be turned worryingly easily. His lack of pace also hinders his progression as pacey forwards would fancy their chances against him.

Click HERE to see the original article. This article was first published on ThisIsFutbol

Written by George McNeil