Leicester City Opinion: Why the Foxes should go for Baghdad Bounedjah?
Back in December 2018, Qatari publication Stad El Doha claimed Leicester City were interested in Al Sadd star, Baghdad Bounedjah. But the Algerian striker put the rumours to bed then by signing a new contract until 2024.
Baghdad Bounedjah, 27, had a sensational 2019/19 campaign where he netted a staggering 41 goals and assisted nine times in 28 games across all competitions. He may not be a household name to many fans in England, but he has become an absolute sensation over in Qatar for some years.
Leicester City improved leaps and bounds following the arrival of Brendan Rodgers in midst of the last campaign and finished eighth in the table. Rodgers has been a positive influence around the King Power Stadium, with the players quickly adapting to his style of football.
Given what was on show in the second half of the 2018/19 campaign, the Leicester fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic for the future.
A few quality additions would be required if the Foxes are to challenge the ‘Big Six’ next season. Rodgers would be aiming to qualify for Europe and must strengthen his strike department to achieve his goals and objectives.
Jamie Vardy has been the Foxes’ chief source of goals for the last few years and enjoyed an upturn in fortunes when Rodgers replaced Claude Puel. Prior to that, he looked sluggish at times and never really enjoyed a harmonious relationship with Puel.
But the former England international has thrived under Rodgers, documenting he’s still at the absolute peak of his powers in his thirties.
Even if Vardy has shrugged off all the effects of ageing, he needs competition and back-up which Kelechi Iheanacho has failed to provide since joining from Manchester City in 2017.
Shinji Okazaki has left the club and while Iheanacho is expected to be given another season to prove his worth, Leicester need a new striker and they must reignite their interest in Baghdad Bounedjah.
Bounedjah has scored goals for fun with Al Sadd in the last two years and while the league in Qatar isn’t considered to be as competitive as the European leagues, he could be a brilliant addition for Leicester.
The 27-year-old is deadly in front of the goal, capable of finishing off chances with both feet. He has a good turn of pace and is equally strong in the air which makes him a handful in the box for the defenders.
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Not only will the Algerian bolster the Foxes’ attacking department but also add competition for Vardy and Iheanacho.
Verdict
Despite not being a household name in European football, Bounedjah’s incredible scoring record must not be overlooked. Thus, Rodgers and co. should not hesitate while taking a punt on him.