Russia star Golovin could earn a summer transfer to one of Europe’s biggest teams by impressing for the host nation
Aleksandr Golovin has thrust himself into the limelight thanks to two assists and a fantastic free-kick in Russia’s 5-0 win against Saudi Arabia in the World Cup’s opening game.
The 22-year-old midfielder is reportedly a wanted man, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Juventus among the clubs rumoured to be targeting him.
And after his starring role, it’s easy to see why.
Golovin caught the eye for Russia against Saudi Arabia
Who is Aleksandr Golovin?
Born on May 30, 1996 in the town of Kaltan, south central Russia, Golovin played futsal in his early years before joining FC Novokuznetsk as a 13-year-old.
Who does he play for?
Three years after joining FC Novokuznetsk, Golovin moved on to CSKA Moscow and broke through in the UEFA Youth League. He made his debut for the first team in 2014, aged just 18, and has since gone on to establish himself as a key player in the side. For Russia, he made his debut as a 19-year-old and now has 19 caps, with two goals. Golovin appeared at Euro 2016 and the 2017 Confederations Cup, making three appearances in both tournaments.
What position does he play?
Golovin is an attacking midfielder who can also play on the either wing or in a deeper, central midfield position. For Russia, he has recently been alternated between the attacking midfield and left-wing positions. The home nation don’t possess much creative talent and so will be looking to the 22-year-old for inspiration in attack.
What is his playing style?
The Russian has attracted attention as a pacy attacking midfielder, unafraid to take on opposition defenders. Golovin’s dribbling ability is one of the main assets he will undoubtedly look to use in order to trouble Saudi Arabia.
Golovin attempts to dribble out of troubleHow was his 2017/18 season?
In 2017/18, Aleksandr Golovin developed into one of his team’s star men. The Russian midfielder played 43 times for CSKA, scoring seven goals, recording six assists and picking up an impressive 13 yellow cards. His side finished second in the Russian Premier League, were knocked out in the group stage of the Champions League, quarter-finals of the Europa League and round-of-32 of the Russian Cup.
Which clubs are interested in signing him?
Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with a move for Golovin, but it appears Juventus are leading the race for the midfielder, who is also being monitored by Monaco. This could all change after some impressive appearances at the World Cup.
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