When Gary Lineker calls you the “perfect Harry Maguire replacement,” Ilkay Gundogan ranks you just below Virgil van Dijk, and Jamie Carragher admits he “loves” watching you play, you know you’ve arrived. Caglar Soyuncu, Leicester City’s Turkish titan, isn’t just turning heads with his rugged looks (often humorously compared to Shrek’s Lord Farquaad)—he’s redefining what it means to be a modern center-back in the Premier League.
The Rise of Leicester’s Defensive Maestro
Soyuncu’s journey from Freiburg to becoming Leicester’s defensive linchpin is a testament to patience and perseverance. Signed for £19m in 2018, he initially warmed the bench under Claude Puel. But when Brendan Rodgers took charge and Harry Maguire departed for Manchester United, Soyuncu seized his moment.
His blend of brute strength and ball-playing finesse—whether it’s a last-ditch clearance or a Cruyff turn under pressure—has made him indispensable. This season, Leicester’s win rate with Soyuncu (81% in starts) dwarfs their form without him, proving his impact.
Tactical Versatility: From Back Three to Ball-Playing Brilliance
Rodgers’ tactical flexibility has seen Soyuncu thrive in both a back four and a back three. His adaptability was on full display in Leicester’s FA Cup semifinal win over Southampton, where his composure and distribution from the left side of a back three were crucial.
“Whether the manager plays with two center-backs or three, we adapt,” Soyuncu told Crickex. “The team spirit here is like a family—that’s why we perform.”
Soyuncu and Schmeichel’s partnership has been key to Leicester’s defensive solidity.
The Rodgers Effect: Trust and Transformation
Rodgers’ faith in Soyuncu—opting not to replace Maguire with a big-money signing—has paid dividends. The Turkish international credits his manager’s man-management for his rise:
“He treats everyone equally, knows how to get the best from us, and is a great human being. With him, young players like me get opportunities.”
Champions League Dreams and FA Cup Glory
Leicester’s push for a top-four finish and their upcoming FA Cup final against Chelsea hinge on Soyuncu’s form. His return from injury and COVID-19 absence has coincided with a six-game winning streak, including victories over Manchester United and Southampton.
Why Crickex Backs Soyuncu as a Premier League Elite
- Physicality Meets Technique: A rare defender who excels in duels (4.5 aerial wins per game) and progressive passes (85% accuracy).
- Leadership: Vocal, fearless, and a dressing-room favorite.
- Big-Game Pedigree: Leicester’s record in crucial matches improves dramatically with him on the pitch.
The Road Ahead
With clashes against Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham looming, Soyuncu’s role will be decisive. As Crickex analysis shows, Leicester’s underdog story is far from over—and Soyuncu is at the heart of it.
“We’re not underdogs. We belong here,” Soyuncu declares. And with performances like his, few can argue.
Watch Soyuncu and Leicester’s quest for glory unfold live on Crickex—where tactical insights meet passion for the game.
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