The name Ludwig Augustinsson wasn’t known amongst Aston Villa fans until recently, with the Swedish full-back now linked with a move to the West Midlands. The 28-year-old, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, has reached an agreement with Aston Villa for a loan move with an option to buy included. As Aston Villa aim towards a higher finish in the Premier League, it’s vital for an increased focus in the transfer market on squad depth. With the potential introduction of Augustinsson to support Lucas Digne, the club is continuing to portray itself as a highly intellectual, calculated entity on and off the field.
Playing central midfield till the age of 11, Augustinsson from a young age has been moulded into a player fit for the modern game with his composure in possession. Equally, not even focusing on his immediate skill as a footballer, Ludwig possesses immense intelligence and awareness tactically resulting in increased versatility in formations.
Especially when recruiting to ultimately increase assets for a certain position, the real emphasis always needs to be on experience. The Swede in question, Ludwig Augustinsson has experienced a variety of fixtures around Europe and internationally for his country Sweden. Competing in Denmark, Germany and Spain at club level whilst making 46 appearances internationally, there is no doubting that Ludwig possesses the skill of adapting quickly to new environments to generate maximum output during games.
Starting 9 games for Sevilla in La Liga last season, Augustinsson won 61% of his total duels including 65% of aerial duels. Additionally appearing 10 times as a substitute, the Swede’s status at the Spanish club was playing second fiddle at left-back behind Marcos Acuña for the majority of the time. Joining Aston Villa and reuniting with former Sevilla teammate Diego Carlos, Ludwig would also remain back up to Lucas Digne resulting in a continuation of expectations if he were to eventually move to the West Midlands.
Especially being an initial loan transfer, what is there to lose on this signing?
It’s an extremely sensible acquisition by Aston Villa, looking sensibly at the importance of building a squad that is tactically aware to play in Gerrard’s system that is also full of depth in multiple positions. For Ludwig, he would become the second current Swedish international alongside Robin Olsen at Aston Villa. Additionally, with the addition this season of the rule allowing 5 substitutions, Augustinsson can help increase Aston Villa’s chances of a higher finish in the Premier League from the bench. The role of a fullback in modern football is now more important than ever with responsibilities for defending as well as using pace to join attacks and create chances. This transfer will lessen the pressure placed on current left back Lucas Digne by acquiring another model international experienced in his position.
Liam Bryan
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