Cardiff City FC Manager, Omer Riza, has shared his strategic approach for utilizing Leicester City loanee Will Alves after his recent move to Cardiff City. Alves, a highly regarded talent in Leicester’s academy at just 19 years old, has been sent on loan to gain valuable experience. Although some may see this move as a risk due to Alves’ limited senior experience and Cardiff’s position in the relegation fight, Riza is confident in his abilities. The young forward is praised for his pace, which Riza believes will pose a threat to defenders. Riza concurs with Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy’s view that Alves is best suited as a winger, and he plans to deploy him in that role for Cardiff.
Despite Alves typically playing as a No. 10, Riza believes his strength lies in the wide areas. The manager acknowledges the need to ease Alves into the team gradually due to his lack of senior-level exposure. Riza emphasises the importance of players with pace, highlighting Alves, alongside other speedsters like Cian Ashford and Isaak Davies, as assets that can unsettle opponents. The prospect of fielding a lineup with such pace is described as “scary” for opposition defenders. Riza expresses his delight in having options like Alves that fulfil the desired profile for the team.
Riza’s vision for the team’s attack emphasises the importance of players who possess qualities like pace, which can give Cardiff a competitive edge. The manager’s decision to acquire Alves is based on the team’s need for such attributes. Alves’ debut for Cardiff could be on the horizon as the team prepares to face Stoke City in the FA Cup. Riza’s insight into Alves’ playing style and the role he envisages for the young talent provides a glimpse into Cardiff’s strategic approach going forward. The infusion of pace and energy that Alves brings to the team is poised to make Cardiff a formidable force in upcoming matches.
The inclusion of Alves in Cardiff’s squad signals a shift towards a more dynamic and fast-paced style of play. Riza’s assessment of Alves’ capabilities as a winger aligns with the team’s strategy to inject urgency and unpredictability into their attacking plays. With players like Alves, Ashford, and Davies in the mix, Cardiff aims to create a formidable attacking force that can trouble opponents. As Cardiff City navigates through the challenges of the Championship season, the addition of Alves represents a strategic move to enhance the team’s attacking prowess and bolster their chances of success in upcoming fixtures. Riza’s faith in Alves’ potential to make a significant impact on the team reflects Cardiff’s commitment to strengthening their squad and pushing for positive results in the league.