Chelsea’s €50 Million Gamble: What Geovany Quenda Brings to Stamford Bridge
In a move that has sent ripples through the football world, Chelsea have reportedly agreed to a €50 million deal to sign Sporting CP’s teenage sensation, Geovany Quenda. This transfer saga has been particularly intriguing as Chelsea managed to swoop in and secure the deal right under the noses of Manchester United, who were also keen on the young star. So, what exactly can Chelsea fans expect from this promising 17-year-old talent?
Quenda has been making waves at the youth level for both club and country. His introduction to the first team at Sporting was nothing short of spectacular. Ruben Amorim, Sporting’s manager, handed him his debut in the Portuguese Super Cup final against Porto, where Quenda announced himself with a stunning goal. Despite the allure of reuniting with Amorim at Manchester United, Quenda has chosen to embark on a new journey with Chelsea. Let’s delve into what makes this young winger such an exciting prospect.
Position
Geovany Quenda is a pure winger, known for his attacking prowess. This season, he has been deployed in an unfamiliar wing-back role on the right, where he has managed to shine despite the defensive demands of the position. In the league, he has already notched up four assists and one goal. While his youthful energy and enthusiasm have helped cover some of his defensive shortcomings, Chelsea will likely utilize him in a more traditional winger role, allowing him to focus on his strengths.
By the Numbers
Let’s take a closer look at Quenda’s statistics from the Liga Portugal 2024-25 season:
- Pass accuracy: 82.5%
- Shots: 35 (8 on target)
- Expected Goals: 2.94
- Expected Assists: 3.90
- Successful tackles: 33.3%
- Successful ground duels: 51.8%
- Successful aerial duels: 42.3%
Strengths
Quenda’s game is characterized by relentless dribbling in wide areas, a willingness to take on opponents, and an eagerness to set up combination passes with his teammates. His change of pace is a significant asset in attacking areas, and his 2.40 chances created per 90 minutes place him in the top 5% of wingers/wide forwards in Portugal’s top flight.
His acceleration from a standing start makes him a nightmare for defenders, and while he has only scored once, his left foot packs plenty of power and precision when he cuts inside. Quenda’s ability to take on defenders, even when double-teamed, is a valuable trait, especially against teams that sit deep.
How He Can Improve
While Quenda’s defensive contributions may be less of a concern at Chelsea, given his likely position higher up the pitch, there are technical aspects he needs to refine. His pressing needs to be more coordinated with his teammates, and his timing in tackles must improve to avoid conceding unnecessary free-kicks. Despite his modest physique, his defensive game can benefit from experience and smartness rather than physicality. Additionally, he could make more interceptions given his intense playing style.
In attack, Quenda could enhance his end product. As a high-volume finisher, more of his shots should hit the target. His finishing technique from distance is not yet on par with players like Saka or Ethan Nwaneri, who have similar profiles.
In Quotes
Roberto Martinez, Portugal’s head coach, has high praise for Quenda: “More than a versatile player, he brings balance and technical ability, not just the position. He is a player with magic and who can make the difference in the final third. He is a player with a spectacular future and his experience of being in the national team, whether he plays on the pitch or not, is important.”
Fabio Roque, Quenda’s youth coach at Sporting, draws comparisons to a Premier League star: “He is so committed in defensive moments and defensive duels. He plays so well there because the space that he covers on the field is huge. Geo is so demanding with himself in the defensive moments. To close, to recover fast, to win the defensive duels for his team-mates. It reminds me of [Arsenal winger] Bukayo Saka in the beginning of his career when he played as a full-back.”
Who Else Was Linked?
Manchester United were the most heavily linked with Quenda, given his previous work with Amorim. However, every top club in Europe has had their eyes on him at some point.
How He Could Fit at Chelsea
Quenda’s long-term prospects as a wing-back are doubtful, especially outside Portugal. At Chelsea, he should find a system that matches his abilities. Playing higher up the pitch with defensive cover behind him will allow him to focus on his take-ons, bursts of acceleration, and quick turns in dangerous positions. His ability to control the ball under pressure and initiate movements quickly will serve him well.
While he relies heavily on his left foot, Quenda is capable of using his right foot effectively, even for finishing. This versatility means he can play on either wing, though his goal threat decreases when playing on the opposite side. In the Premier League, he may face rough marking and physical play, so he’ll need to adapt quickly to the league’s demands.
Originally Written by: Tor-Kristian Karlsen
