Two teenage talents, both predominantly defensive midfielders, both are at the beginning of their professional football journies. Seventeen year old, Eduardo plays in Ligue 1 with Rennes and has experience in the Europa League. Eighteen year old Rihito is playing in Japan’s J2 league.
The 182cm French-Angolan is valued at almost 40 million Euros while the 177cm Japanese player is valued at around 400 thousand Euros. Camavinga does a great job in the midfield for his side and his VPM is a great balance for his position. Yamamoto has had to be a bit more versatile, playing in the center of midfield, a full back on both sides of the pitch and even a center back.
Both players are left-footed. Eduardo’s Work Rate is 0.77 compared to Yamamoto’s 1.15. Given Rennes were 3rd in their league while Tokyo Verdy finished 13th last J2 season, it’s no surprise of the defensive players Yamamoto was the far busier one.
Both however handled all that came their way with passing accuracy a key element to their game. Yamamoto had an overall passing accuracy of 93.6% including 88.9% in the Final Third. Camavinga’s passing accuracy was 89.7% with 86.2% into the Final Third. Both players comfortable dribbling with over 60% success, both players won over 50% of their duels.
Similar players but two very different valuations. As their careers progress we will see if the vast difference was justified or more based on league and country perception. This is the challenge every club and their scouting teams face. Who’s skill set and ability is the most transferable? And is the risk worth it?
One thing we can see for sure is that at the current level they’re playing at, they’re both very comfortable.