Former Atletico Madrid defender Alvaro Dominguez has backed his old club’s decision to sign Mario Mandzukic.
Dominguez, now at Borussia Monchengladbach, has seen Mandzukic up close during his time at Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich, and has told Mundo Deportivo that the Croatia international is a fine all-round player.
“For me Mandzukic is a natural striker and a little old-fashioned. He’s very dangerous in the penalty area,” Dominguez said.
“From what I saw in Germany I found him very complete. I couldn’t emphasise one aspect over another. He’s big but has good speed, holds the ball well, plays for second balls and has great anticipation in the area.
“You can’t expect a player like Diego Costa because they aren’t the same. Costa ate goals. In this sense Mandzukic reminds me more of Radamel Falcao, more of a predator in the area.
“I think Atletico has a hit with this signing, especially if they surround him with players who will create, something I don’t think will be a problem with Arda Turan, Koke, Raul Garcia…”
Dominguez added he has played against Mandzukic only once but the striker made an impression.
“I remember him as one of those forwards who don’t need to participate too much in the team’s passing game,” Dominguez recalled.
“He was always well placed to do harm. He didn’t have to come from too far to score – he’s very dangerous, really.”
Asked if he expects Mandzukic to succeed in La Liga, Dominguez struck a cautious note despite signing his praises.
“It’s hard. I haven’t seen him play outside Germany. I think every player has to go through an adjustment period but it points to something good,” he continued.
“If he has quality people with him, he’ll score lots of goals.”
