PROFILE | Reims’ discrete Azor Matusiwa continues to pass under-the-radar

Judging by the lack of concerted transfer interest, Azor Matusiwa is of one Ligue 1’s more underappreciated talents. Now 25 and in his third season with Reims since arriving in France from Dutch club Groningen in 2020, the former Netherlands under 21 international’s continued presence in Champagne surprises. Although arguably a sign of Reims’ rising stock under Will Still in 2023, teams used to being further up the division or more ambitious sides from across the continent would do well to pay more attention to Matusiwa.

Often an under-the-radar, unspectacular influence on games at the base of Reims’ midfield, Matusiwa’s low profile is perhaps understandable, as much of his good work goes unnoticed or is underappreciated. Reliable, consistent and precise, Matuiswa’s considered technical ability speaks to his Ajax upbringing. He progressed through the Amsterdamers’ youth teams to under 21 level before leaving for De Graafschap on loan in January 2019 and a permanent move to Groningen that summer.

Matusiwa has one mode, as an organized and astute, defensive sentinel, serenely protecting Reims’ backline week to week. His FBRef profile underlines what’s obvious from the eye test in that he performs especially well in interceptions, blocks, tackles and clearances. None of his teammates can beat his tackles plus interceptions tally this term while his icey discipline and calmness in deeper areas, including between the centre-backs, is also key for what is often otherwise a dynamic and positive Reims outfit under Still.

At the time of writing, no one at Reims has been more successful than Matusiwa in halting dribblers this season. The midfielder is often seen gliding across to break up an attack via a well-timed challenge