Ecuador. Everyone is talking about Ecuador.
The Gran Colombian market (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela) is simply booming with talents, and after Moises Caicedo’s recent move to the English Premier League, the interest is growing. Today, Juan Gafas bring you the big defensive hope of Ecuador.
Piero Hincapié
Age: 19
Club: Talleres (Argentina)
Position: Centre Back, Full Back
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Market Value: 700.000 € (Transfermarkt)
Why follow him? Hincapié is another talented Ecuadorian youngster, coming from the distinguished academy of Independiente del Valle, who seems to have a bright future ahead of him. His excellent performance in youth levels, including IDV’s historic U-20 Copa Libertadores title alongside Moises Caicedo and Darlin Leiton, caught Talleres’ eye. The Argentinian club was ready to pay good money on the young lad, with hardly any 1st team performances.
Hincapié usually plays as a centre back but can operate as a left-back too. He was always notable for his physical attributes, well-built, and quality movement in long and short distances. It seems he was busy working out since arriving in Argentina. He is aggressive and brave, winning duels both on the ground and in the air (about 6’0.5 tall), although too often attacks the ball from the wrong side.
He is comfortable on the ball, can carry it forward past the opposition first line of defence, and can pick a pass over distance. In general, his adaptation to Talleres’ high line and building up from the back system is good.
He still lacks some of the “small” details in his passes, body positioning (in and off possession), attacking the ball from the wrong side or when not needed, etc. It was not an issue before, but in the level, he is playing at now, it is not enough to count on your athleticism to compensate.
His performance in some games was good but not consistent. His last match, facing Sarmiento, was his worst out of the ones I’ve watched. However, a lack of consistency is something you can expect from an 18-19 years old, making his first steps in professional football and a foreign country. His physical and technical qualities are exciting; his character does not show any flows, and his tactical understanding is good for his age and experience. Piero Hincapié is definitely a player worth watching.
Photo via Talleres official Twitter account.
