Borja Sainz's Norwich City Role Under Johannes Hoff Thorup Tactics - Scouting Report

Jack Chippendale - Total Football Analyst

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After failing to make a lasting impression on Spanish football in his early career, another Basque prospect has begun to take the EFL Championship by storm.

Borja Sainz’s electric start to the 2024/25 season has captured the attention of fans worldwide.

The Spaniard spearheads the attacking benefits of a more progressive style at Norwich City.

Having shone as a transitional ball progressor in his first season at Carrow Road, Sainz’s attacking output has rapidly increased over the space of 12 months.

He sits atop the Championship scoring charts with 11 goals thus far.

For a player who appeared to struggle while operating within different team environments in La Liga, witnessing the rapid adjustment between two vastly different tactical systems during his time at Norwich has been seriously impressive.

Sainz quickly developed some of the more fundamental aspects of his game learning under David Wagner's mentorship, although the former manager preferred a much more conservative tactical approach.

Fast-forward to present-day Norwich, and new boss Johannes Hoff Thorup has entrusted Sainz with alternative attacking positioning.

This allows the Spaniard to threaten opposition defences differently with some refreshing tactics.

This tactical analysis and scout report will begin to highlight how Sainz has become so effective within each of these tactical systems as he continues to showcase his individual talents in the English second tier.

We will also begin to highlight how Sainz may fit into some of the top-tier sides that may knock on the door once the winter transfer window opens, with keen interest from Galatasaray and Athletic Club.

Borja Sainz Style Of Play

When defining Borja Sainz's style of play as a player, it is important to highlight how effective he has been when in possession of the ball this season.

Borja Sainz positionally operates on the left wing of Norwich’s attack and is supremely confident when carrying the ball intently into the attacking third.