# Cengiz Ünder's Defensive Performance Evaluated at Marseille
## Introduction
Cengiz Ünder, the Turkish winger, has been a key player for Marseille since joining the club on loan from Roma in 2020. While he is primarily known for his attacking prowess, his defensive contributions have also come under scrutiny, especially as Marseille competes in both Ligue 1 and European competitions. This article evaluates Ünder's defensive performance and assesses how he has adapted to the demands of OM's system.
## Defensive Work Rate and Tracking Back
One of the standout aspects of Ünder's game is his willingness to track back and support his full-back. In Marseille's high-pressing system, players are expected to contribute defensively, and Ünder has shown a strong work ethic in this regard. He often cuts short opposition counterattacks by intercepting passes and winning the ball back quickly. His agility and speed allow him to recover ground effectively, making him a valuable asset in transition moments.
## Positional Awareness and Anticipating Threats
Ünder's positional awareness has improved significantly during his time at Marseille. He is often seen anticipating opposition movements, which helps him cut off passing lanes and disrupt play. However, there have been moments where he has been caught out of position, particularly when Marseille's defensive line is breached. While his defensive instincts are developing,La Liga Stadium there is still room for improvement in reading the game and maintaining defensive discipline.
## Tackling and Dueling Ability
While Ünder is not known for his physicality, he has shown a willingness to engage in duels and win the ball back. His success rate in tackles has been decent, and he often uses his quick feet to dispossess opponents. However, he can sometimes be overly reliant on his agility, which can lead to missed tackles if he misjudges the situation.
## Conclusion
Cengiz Ünder's defensive performance at Marseille has been a mixed bag but ultimately positive. His work rate, positional awareness, and willingness to contribute defensively have been assets to the team. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining defensive discipline and consistency, Ünder has proven that he can adapt to the demands of a high-intensity system. As he continues to grow and refine his defensive skills, he has the potential to become an even more complete player for Marseille.