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Examining how Corentin Tolisso will fit in at Bayern Munich

By Benjamin Scott

TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 02: Corentin Tolisso (R) of Olympique Lyonnais in action against Sami Khedira of Juventus during the UEFA Champions League Group H match between Juventus and Olympique Lyonnais at Juventus Stadium on November 2, 2016 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 02: Corentin Tolisso (R) of Olympique Lyonnais in action against Sami Khedira of Juventus during the UEFA Champions League Group H match between Juventus and Olympique Lyonnais at Juventus Stadium on November 2, 2016 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) /
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LYON, FRANCE – JULY 18: Corentin Tolisso of Olympique Lyonnais in action during the preseason friendly match between Olympique Lyonnais and AC MIlan at Gerland Stadium on July 18, 2015 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
LYON, FRANCE – JULY 18: Corentin Tolisso of Olympique Lyonnais in action during the preseason friendly match between Olympique Lyonnais and AC MIlan at Gerland Stadium on July 18, 2015 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) /

What Tolisso has to offer

Although comparisons can be made between Corentin Tolisso and other players, its best to simply examine the player on his own rather than labeling him “like” another player.

As previously mentioned, the French youngster is capable of playing anywhere in the midfield. Whether deployed in an attacking, box-to-box, or holding (defensive) midfield role, Tolisso brings much to the table.

Perhaps his least effective position is attacking midfield. His passing is good, but his passing style is not particularly suited for the number 10 role. Furthermore, while his shooting is rather exceptional for a midfielder, this too is better suited in a deeper midfield role. Many of his goals come from either long-range strikes or rather easy finishes after late runs into the box.

This is okay though, because its unlikely Tolisso will ever feature as a pure playmaker. When Ancelotti does opt to use a number 10, surely it will be either Thomas Muller or Thiago Alcantara who gets the nod in the position.

Tolisso’s talents are far better suited deeper on the pitch. His excellent passing and hold-up play make him a great midfield anchor. However, to get the absolute best out of the talented Frenchman, Ancelotti must give him the freedom to roam in a box-to-box role.

The midfielder’s fitness and energy are up there with the best in Europe. He can easily play a full 90 minutes going all out, both up and down the pitch.

This allows him to work the ball up the field as he likes, burst into the opposition’s box for a quick shot, and track back to use his physique and positioning to win the ball back and do it again.

Corentin Tolisso truly has the makings of a “perfect” modern midfielder. It’s no wonder why he was labeled as “Carlo Ancelotti’s wish” by Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Next: Joshua Kimmich wants to create a legacy of his own at Bayern Munich

Unfortunately for Bayern Munich fans, we will have to wait until the club kicks off its Summer tour to see Tolisso in action. Until then, feel free to enjoy the endless highlight reels on YouTube for the new signing. And be sure to stay tuned to us here at Bayern Strikes for all your Bayern Munich news, analysis, opinions, and more.