With the transfer window coming to an end in few weeks, Arsenal and Manchester United has been busy in the transfer market, with both clubs signing amazing defenders from Bologna. The transfer has sparked a debate between fans about Leny Yoro and Riccardo Calafiori who is better?
Manchester United signed Yoro under the watch of Real Madrid and Liverpool for a deal worth £52million which will also rise with addon. While Arsenal signed Calafirio for a fee worth £38million.
The English premier league will expect more from both players with Arteta falling out on the league trophy severally while Man Utd looks set to strengthen their defense despite managing to pull out a trophy from last season.
Because of these expectations’ fans are comparing both players, let us talk about which player might succeed in the English premier league.
The Advantage Arsenal fans got over United fans is, Riccardo Calafiori has proven to be an excellent defender. His performance at the just conclude Euro 2024 was brilliant. Though we have also seen 18 years Yoro’s performance on a big stage like the UEFA Champions league last season.
Is Calafirio better than Leny Yoro
Yoro and Calafirio Defensively Stats
Using their denfesive performance, Arsenal’s latest signing clearly outperforms Yoro in most key metrics. The new Arsenal defender has shown excellent in different areas, including aerial duels, ground duels, interceptions, and ball recoveries, making him a standout choice in the backline.
| Statistics | Riccardo Calafiori | Leny Yoro |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial Duels Won | 2.4 | 1.6 |
| Aerial Duel Success Rate | 71.43 | 64.79 |
| Ground Duels Won | 3.4 | 2 |
| Ground Duel Success Rate | 58.39 | 61.05 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 1.3 |
| Ball Recoveries | 7.5 | 4.5 |
Despite these impressive stats, Yoro still shows potential with generally solid defensive abilities, though he lags behind in aerial duels. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, his performance in aerial challenges—averaging just 1.6 wins per game and a 64.79% success rate—indicates a need for improvement.
This could be a concern for Manchester United, especially with the prospect of him partnering with the shorter Lisandro Martinez, which might create vulnerabilities during set-pieces next season.
Calafirio and Yoro Passing Stats
Over time Leny Yoro has shown accuracy in his pass and Riccardo Calafirio has not been that accurate with his passes.
Following Manchester United last season’s defensive struggles, where Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire had difficulties with their passing while mounting pressure on Andre Onana, conceding 58 goals just in the English premier league alone.
| Statistics | Riccardo Calafiori | Leny Yoro |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Accuracy | 91.50% | 92.16% |
| Forward Passes per 90 | 21 | 17.5 |
| Long Passes per 90 | 2.8 | 3 |
| Through Balls per 90 | 0.1 | 0 |
| Through balls 90 | 2 | 1 |
Manchester United looks to strengthen their defense with a defender skilled in ball control. Leny Yoro, who delivered impressive passing stats with an accuracy of 92.16% last season, seems perfect and might succeed at Old Trafford.
While Yoro’s precision in passing surpasses many Premier League defenders, his approach is more conservative compared to others like Riccardo Calafiori. Yoro’s numbers for forward passes, long passes, and through balls are notably lower, indicating a preference for safer, shorter passes.
Leny Yoro’s style of play might actually benefit United, especially after their recent defensive woes. If Paired with the dynamic Lisandro Martinez, Yoro could provide a steady, reliable presence. On the other hand, Arsenal fans will be pleased with Calafiori’s passing abilities, as he seems to be a perfect match for the ball-playing style alongside teammates like William Saliba and Ben White.
The combination of William Saliba and Riccardo Calafirio as well as the combo of Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro might be something the English fans might want to watch in the coming season.
With both teams playing against each other in their USA pre-season tour on Sunday 28th July. It clear to say both players will be in competition against each other.
Verdict
With Riccardo Calafiori’s experience and recent brilliant performances at the European Championship, it’s no surprise that he outshines his Manchester United counterpart in various defensive metrics. Calafiori’s impressive statistics in eight out of eleven categories will likely boost Arsenal fans, especially with the return of Jurrien Timber adding further strength to their solid defense.
On the other hand, Leny Yoro’s potential is yet to be fully tested in a Manchester United defense that faced challenges last season.
Yoro performance was just for one single season, Yoro’s ability to make a significant impact is still uncertain. While he shows promise, it’s a tall order for an 18-year-old to elevate United’s performance from an eighth-place finish to the top echelons of the league. Nonetheless, Yoro’s comparability with more seasoned players is a positive sign for his future development.
Football debates believe Calafirio might succeed in the English Premier league more compared to 18 years Yoro. But of course, we know the odds might change when both teams meet against each other.
What do you think about this debate, do you think Leny Yoro and Riccardo Calafirio who is better.
Is Arsenal’s Calafirio better than Leny Yoro?
Yes Riccardo Calafirio is better than Leny Yoro
Of the seven categories listed below, Arsenal’s new man outshines Yoro in all but two statistics – albeit, including the all-important ground duel success rate
