Scout Report – Paulo Fonseca
Everton have been targeting Shakhtar Donetsk manager Paulo Fonseca as a replacement for Ronald Koeman. The current Toffees manager has come under criticism for his failure to bring the best out of the team despite indulging in a spending spree over the summer. The pressure has only increased after a 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Although Wayne Rooney came to the Dutchman’s rescue with a penalty, Koeman is understood to be teetering on the brink of getting sacked. If that happens, Fonseca si Everton’s prime choice to replace Koeman.
Let’s take a look at Paulo Fonseca’s profile.
History
Born in Portuguese Mozambique, Fonseca has amassed 14 years worth of experience playing as a central midfielder for clubs like Leca, Belenenses and Marítimo, but only as a backup with Vitoria and Estrela da Amadora. He retired in June 2005 after spending four seasons at Estrela, following which he began his foray into managing clubs.
Fonseca took charge of Estrela’s youth team. His big break came when he succeeded Vitor Pereira at Porto, and he started his spell on a high note but then was relieved of his duties after a string of poor performances. He moved abroad only last year for the first time in his career as he travelled to take charge of Shakhtar Donetsk, and has been with the club since.
Style Of Play
The 44-year-old is regarded as one of the best young coaches in Portugal having managed Braga, Porto and Pacos Ferreira. Fonseca guided Braga to the Europa League quarter Final and fourth in the domestic league this season. As far as tactics and style go, Fonseca’s Shakhtar are effective, lethal and are capable of playing attractive football.
Their formations are quite expansive, and are built to attack. Although Shakhtar take less shots than most teams, they take better shots on target. They are adept at taking their chances and are good at putting themselves in position to get quality chances.
Fonseca usually plays a 4-2-3-1, creating quite a number of passing options in the midfield which also allows them to dominate possession while frustrating their opponents. This system has worked very well with Shakhtar Donetsk and it will be interesting to see how the manager fields his players at Everton if he indeed takes over at the Merseyside.
Fonseca’s Future
Considering how poor Everton are right now, a move for a manager as edgy and creative as Fonseca will certainly be a good move. He has made a strong impact at Shakhtar, and if his previous spells are anything to go by, he knows how to make a team work. Right now, Everton have the necessary players but are seemingly lacking a tactical genius – thus, making Fonseca a strong candidate.