Part II
Analyzing the midfield, where the Timbers must show a lot of creativity!
If one club depends solely in its game is in its midfield, it’s the Timbers. Last season, we saw the development and growth of Colombian sensation Santiago Moreno and the surge of Dairon Aspirilla as the season looms.
Other men to speak aloud are Yimmi and Diego Chara, both with different roles in the team, but in the end both brothers deliver for the Timbers one offensively and the other defensively. As for elder Chara entering his thirteenth season, the man still keeps going strong and considered one of Portland foundations for its defensive game.
Eryk Williamson, if he stays healthy somehow, can shake the living foundations of any team offensive attack. Still, the Timbers have been a bit interested in getting him on the trading block, something I felt he should be sold to a European suitor and not a local side.
Last season in the early stages, Yimmi Chara started very out loud, but in the end his consistency became vocal for the team. He finished with four goals, but with an impressive 2,778 minutes played.
For Sebas or Sebastian Blanco, the man last season undermined his skills with a number of injuries as well as being not too consistent in some games. As father time is catching up in his game, the Argentinian playmaker can still incommode a number of opposing defenses.
The arrival of ten million dollar man Evander for sure will uplift this team’s offensive game. As the Carioca has shown a lot of poise and determination in his new team during its preseason, imagine if Evander and Blanco can connect and create an unstoppable one-two duo.
My worry will be when will Marvin Loria will make up his mind and deliver that amazing Tico game and once for all can become the Timbers’ stand out man in its midfield. Last season saw him log 787 minutes and two goals. He needs to step up his game.
Lastly, many place the Timbers’ 2023 SuperDraft first Round selection in Noel Caliskan to become the Timbers’ future stand out player in their midfield and the man comes with a lot of good references in his collegiate career.
In the end, the Portland Timbers midfield can become the engine of this team and with creativity and lots of efforts I can foresee a very dynamic game both offensively and defensively for this team. The question is how long will its players endure the rough game and competitiveness Major League Soccer is known for?
For newcomer Evander, it will be a tough test but not a difficult one. My conclusion is this will be the instrument that will bring this team a number of positive results in the remainder of this upcoming 2023 season.
