Quick lunch time thoughts about Nadia Nadim
Oh man. This job (well hobby really) is actually quite stressful sometimes. I have an actual job where I get paid and so my routine is to write the night before and post during the lunch break. Today I guess I will have to do both. I’m sure better analysis on what Nadia Nadim will bring to the team is forthcoming, but I wanted to chime in with some quick thoughts:
Nadia comes to Racing in absolutely fantastic form. She averaged a goal every 78 minutes for PSG this year. That is a bit crazy. I couldn't find the numbers quickly, but I assume with as top heavy as the French league is, that PSG had an overwhelming possession advantage in those games. I don't that that rate of return is fair to anticipate when she joins Racing, but I am hopeful that she will bring goals and soon.
Nadia will have an immediate impact all across the team when she joins, hopefully in 10 days to 2 weeks. Coach Holly said a few telling things in the quick presser today. First, Cece Kizer will now almost certainly play deeper on the pitch. Second, Nadia is a true pro and will have an immediate impact on the training ground as well as the games. Third, she is a true “striker”. A brief asside: strikers quite often seem to covet that number 10 jersey even though they are a true 9. I mean everyone wants the number 10, so I did find it a bit odd that Racing started the season with no 9 or 10 on the roster. I think we know why now. Fourth, I think I heard Coach Holly hint at a potential change in formation. Somehow this team has to get the ball to Nadia. Might he set up to counter more often with a natural number 9? Fifth, Nadia is available as soon as she arrives. She will do so fit and in form.
Nadia herself said some interesting things. She thinks the league suits her “direct” playeing style. With the possession issues, that should really help. She also noted how impressed she was with the clubs commitment and facilities. These things are important to players and I think can continue to be a real strength for Racing.
I could say more, but lunch is over so back to work.
