Manchester United legend Antonio Valencia has crowned a new king of Premier League physicality, identifying a Chelsea star who he believes is the strongest in world football right now.
Chelsea has undergone a physical transformation, evolving into a high-intensity unit under Liam Rosenior.
The Blues have registered 441 tackles in the Premier League so far, maintaining a solid 59.76% tackle success rate. This defensive bite is a cornerstone of their current fifth-place standing, as they’ve also recorded 261 interceptions and 623 clearances, showing a much more disciplined approach.
And the heartbeat of this physicality is Moises Caicedo, who is statistically the most dominant ground-duel winner in the division. Caicedo averages 5.6 ground duels won per 90 minutes with a league-high 60.44% success rate, outperforming other elite anchors like Declan Rice.
Stats via FotMob and Squawka.
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Antonio Valencia recorded 325 Premier League appearances across his time with Wigan and Manchester United. During a decorated decade at Old Trafford, he won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, and the UEFA Europa League while captaining the side at times.
Given they’re both Ecuadorian, it came as no surprise to hear that Moises Caicedo picked out Antonio Valencia as his footballing idol.
And the former defender has now repaid the favour. He claims that Caicedo is the strongest player in football when speaking to Benja Annun on Tiktok.
He was asked to pick the best player based on different qualities, ranging from speed to strength.
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Antonio Valencia hails Moises Caicedo once again
This isn’t the first time that Valencia has spoken highly of Caicedo. He previously stated that his fellow countryman is one of the best five players in world football.
“Caicedo is among the five best midfielders in the world. He did not enjoy a preseason with Chelsea, but his performances are getting better and better. He has been improving in the national team, which makes all Ecuadorians happy.
“We hope he continues to improve. He is a good boy, humble, hardworking. I watched most of his games and his level is growing. “I hope that at the end of the season he will be the best in the Premier League.”
If Caicedo can go on to have half the career that Valencia had at Manchester United then Chelsea and the midfielder are in for a treat.
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