❗Assists, who should have done more? The top 5 (+1) of the season 📊
Assist Kings: Who Truly Created Chances This Season?
The dust has settled on the 24/25 season, and now it's time to analyze who truly shone when it mattered most: the assist providers. We delve into the data, examining Expected Assists (xAG) across Europe's top five leagues to reveal who excelled – or perhaps underperformed.
Salah Reigns Supreme with Clinical Creativity
Mohamed Salah takes the crown, topping both the xAG and actual assists charts with a commanding 14.2 xAG and an impressive 18 recorded assists. His Premier League dominance is undeniable: two assists in three separate matches, adding to his already formidable tally of 29 goals.
Yamal's Promise Showcased Despite Barcelona Squad Depth
Hot on Salah's heels, Lamine Yamal boasts a respectable 13.9 xAG and 13 actual assists. While his numbers might seem slightly below par, the competition for playing time within Barcelona's star-studded squad certainly played a role. His most impressive performance saw him deliver two assists in a single game against Valladolid on matchday four.
Raphinha: A Season of High Potential and Frustration
Barcelona's other talismanic winger, Raphinha, occupies the third spot with 12.7 xAG. However, his actual assists tally falls significantly short at 9, raising questions about decisive finishing from his teammates or perhaps a degree of imprecision in his own delivery. Regardless, this season marked a career-best for Raphinha.
Olise's Breakout Season Exceeds Expectations
Michael Olise, enjoying a stellar debut campaign in the Bundesliga, rounds out the podium with 12 xAG. He managed an impressive "double-double" of 12 goals and 15 assists – three more than his expected figures. Serving alongside stars like Harry Kane undoubtedly contributed to this feat.
Baena's Underperformance Amidst Villarreal's Attacking Prowess
Alex Baena, now plying his trade at Atletico Madrid, completes our top five with 11.7 xAG produced during his time at Villarreal. Despite contributing 9 actual assists and playing for the third-best attack in LaLiga, this figure represents a notable underperformance.
Murphy's Magic: Outperforming Expectations
Jacob Murphy stands out as a unique case study. Despite only creating 8.9 xAG, he managed an astonishing 12 actual assists – placing him fourth among all players in Europe's top five leagues. This remarkable feat highlights the unpredictable nature of football and Murphy's ability to consistently deliver when it matters most.