Badly with Juventus, the midfielder finds color. In the jersey of Wales, the next opponent of the Nazionale, he is very important and his duet with Gareth Bale is vital for the “Dragons”. After an excellent match against Turkey, can he take his selection further? This Euro seems very important for Ramsey’s career, as his future remains uncertain.
A good start to Euro
Arranged as a central midfielder in a 4-1-4-1, the Welshman is enjoying himself in this group stage. In the first match against Switzerland, he was very valuable in defense. But against Turkey he was second man of the match, behind Bale. Whether in defense or attack, he fulfilled all the tasks of a “box-to-box”, something he is not used to doing at Juventus. Faced with Günes’ men, Ramsey touched 9 balls in the opposing area and recovered 7 around the Welsh area. Its goal rewards generosity in the offensive effort. Before registering the first goal of the Dragons, he obtains several clear chances, which he does not materialize. He ends the match with 1.84 expected goals* (highest total at the Euro since Ronaldo in 2012). Which means he had chances near the goal, including several near the penalty spot.
* estimate of the number of goals a player must score.
Wales as an escape
His duet with Gareth Bale is the main threat to the Nazionale. According to Opta, this duo had 4 clear chances against Turkey, more than any pair in this Euro. At Euro 2016, it was already this duo that had created the most chances, against Russia. Moreover, it is Gareth Bale who assists Aaron Ramsey against the Turks.
Even if Turkey is disappointing during this Euro, the Juventus player seems to be reborn with his selection. The media across the Channel congratulated the performance of the community. Surrounded by experienced players (Moore, Allen), Ramsey does not feel the weight of the pressure he can feel in the club. In every international competition, it shows its value. At Juventus, many players are in poor shape and the collective is at half mast. But in selection, the fans push behind their team and the number 10 Welsh seems carried by this craze. Club form is temporary, Euro class is permanent at Ramsey, just like at Bale.
What next for him?
Ramsey is not confident with Juventus and it shows on the pitch. Recently, the 30-something told the Repubblica that he did not feel at home in Turin: “ The past two seasons have been frustrating, not just from a physical standpoint. There have been factors and changes. I was not used to it. In selection, on the other hand, I am happy because I feel that I live in a group that follows me and understands me. I will do everything to come back somewhere where I feel good and where I am trusted. If a return to Arsenal is not on the agenda, a rebirth in the Premier League cannot be ruled out.
If he continues to play well during this Euro, he will have suitors. But he will undoubtedly have to make an effort regarding his salary claims: he currently earns 7 million per season at Juventus. If the Bianconeri want to reshape their midfield, the Welshman could be sacrificed. The last two seasons have not been good, especially in this sector. The club will not oppose a departure.
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