# Mahrez as Al Ittihad's Playmaker: Passing Data Analysis
## Introduction
Riyad Mahrez, the versatile Algerian midfielder, has seamlessly transitioned into his new role as Al Ittihad's playmaker, showcasing his ability to adapt to a competitive league and lead the team to success. Known for his creativity and vision, Mahrez's influence on the team has been profound, both in attack and defense.
## Role as a Playmaker
In Al Ittihad, Mahrez has evolved into a pivotal playmaker, orchestrating attacks with precision and intelligence. His role involves controlling the tempo of the game, creating scoring opportunities, and distributing the ball effectively to teammates. His presence has injected life into the team's midfield, enabling Al Ittihad to dominate possession and maintain a high attacking rate.
## Passing Data Analysis
Mahrez's passing ability is a cornerstone of his playmaking prowess. His pass completion rate stands at an impressive 86%, indicating his reliability in delivering the ball to teammates. He averages 2.8 key passes per game,Bundesliga Tracking showcasing his ability to pick out dangerous attacking positions. Notably, his diagonal and long-range passes have been key, with 35% of his passes traveling over 20 yards, highlighting his ability to break defenses.
Comparing this season to last, Mahrez's passing accuracy has improved by 5%, reflecting his adjustment to the league's demands. His positional versatility allows him to operate in various midfield roles, enhancing his ability to read the game and exploit defensive gaps.
## Impact on Team Dynamics
Mahrez's influence extends beyond just passes. He has significantly increased the team's scoring rate, with Al Ittihad netting 4 goals per game on average since his arrival. His ability to draw defenders and create turnovers has also bolstered the team's defensive stability.
## Conclusion
Riyad Mahrez's role as Al Ittihad's playmaker has been transformative. His passing prowess, positional adaptability, and leadership have not only revitalized the team but also set a new standard for attacking performance. As the season progresses, Mahrez's continued excellence will be crucial for Al Ittihad's success, both in maintaining their position at the top and in challenging for honours.