Aydin Sumer '25 Recruiting Profile

Soccer, has a  diversity of playing styles, strategies, and positions. A critical position is that of the Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM). CDMs can be the conductors of the orchestra, dictating play and tempo, and balancing their positioning and play between defense and attack. Two legendary figures who have epitomized the role of a CDM and have had a tremendous influence on the game are Pep Guardiola and Sergio Busquets. Both renowned for their exceptional vision, passing ability, and astute game reading, and I strive to emulate their style. As a CDM, emulating these two legends means adopting a unique set of qualities that go beyond the conventional expectations for a midfielder.

In addition to having great ball-control and possession skills, Guardiola and Busquets' brilliance is their remarkable vision and passing ability. Like a seasoned quarterback in American football, they could pick out a pass that seemed almost impossible to anyone else on the field. As a CDM, emulating this quality involves an acute sense of awareness, scanning the field, and anticipating the movement of teammates and opponents and having a very rapid ability to see space both in the present and spaces that will be opening up due to the current movement of players on the pitch. The ability to switch play with pinpoint accuracy, execute long-range diagonal passes, and thread through balls into tight spaces are all hallmarks of their style. They accomplish this with having great positioning relative to their teammates opponents and the ball based on the phase of play.

Guardiola and Busquets were masters of reading the game, a skill that elevated their positions to an art form. Their ability to anticipate the opposition's moves, intercept passes, and break down attacks before they even materialized was awe-inspiring. This required an exceptional footballing IQ, cultivated through years of experience and a deep understanding of the game's nuances. As an aspiring CDM, emulating this quality means not only being physically present on the pitch but also staying mentally attuned to the game.

Both Guardiola and Busquets played the role of the "pivot" with unparalleled finesse. As the anchor in midfield, they were the link between defense and attack. Their role was multi-faceted: breaking up opposition attacks, distributing the ball to initiate attacks, providing an outlet during build-up and maintaining a compact defensive shape. Emulating this pivotal role demands versatility, the ability to seamlessly transition between offensive and defensive phases of play, and being the on-field director of your team's movements.

While both Guardiola and Busquets possessed sublime offensive attributes, they were equally adept defensively. Busquets, in particular, was renowned for his ability to intercept passes, perform well-timed tackles, and regain possession for his team. Emulating this aspect of their game means being a relentless ball-winner, providing a shield to your defense, and initiating quick counter-attacks.

Trying to copy Pep Guardiola and Sergio Busquets as a Central Defensive Midfielder is not easy. It requires a commitment to honing a unique set of skills that encompass vision, passing ability, game reading, and versatility. It is a journey marked by dedication, discipline, and a pursuit of perfection. As someone aspiring to be a CDM in the mold of Guardiola and Busquets I try to play the game not just beautifully but also with intelligence.