Bavarian Wunderkind Watch: Alex Timossi Andersson

The signing of Alex Timossi Andersson from Swedish second-tier-side Helsingborgs IF is an indication of just how impressive and expansive Bayern Munich’s scouting network is. The young Swede has been tipped for a big future, but can he make the jump in the Bavarian capital?

Alex Timossi Andersson

Age: 17

Nationality: Swedish

Position: CF

Background

Bayern Munich captured the signature of Timossi Andersson in the Fall of 2017 for an estimated fee of €125,000, but kept him on loan at his hometown club. The youngster opted for the Rekordmeister following trials with the German champions and Manchester United. Despite the intention to keep the young forward on loan until the end of the 2018/19 campaign , Bayern Munich decided to cut this deal short and bring the Swede to Munich this summer due to a lack of first-team minutes. This lack of minutes cannot be chalked up to a lack of talent, at least in the eyes of the Bayern brass. Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihimidzic has insisted his quality is clear:

He’s a highly-talented player who we are convinced will make the grade at FC Bayern.

Die Roten’s eagerness to continue his development in the friendly confines of Saebener Strasse gives the young starlet the opportunity to test his mettle with the U19s and Bayern II after arriving in Munich. If he can realize his potential, he may be a part of what has the makings of an elite class of 2000/01.

Stats

Andersson earned a meteoric rise through both Helingborgs and Sweden’s youth ranks, putting up impressive numbers along the way. The 17-year-old netted eight goals in 11 appearances for Sweden’s U15 and U16s before being promoted to the U17 squad, where he has scored one goal in 10 caps. Although his production decreased slightly for the national team, the striker put in three goals in 12 matches for Helsingborgs IF’s first team last campaign, which was preceded by two goals in 20 appearances as a 16-year-old in Sweden’s second-division.

These numbers may be underwhelming to the naked eye, but it is important to consider context. At only age 16, Andersson was scoring goals in the professional ranks and in the youth ranks of a national team that is by no means dominant. When his numbers are considered alongside his age and development, he has demonstrated an ability to punch above his weight, which also helps to explain why Salihamadzic is so confident in his quality. This quality justified his inclusion in first-team training as Niko Kovac awaited the return of his World Cup stars. Andersson has only recorded two performances for Bayern’s U19s thus far, but look for him to continue his rise up the ranks in Munich as he integrates into the youth set up.

Scouting Report

Footage is limited on the young Swede, but his skill set jumps off of the screen. The quick center forward possesses a cultured game and he has undoubted technical ability, which may suit him better in a different position.

Physically, he prefers his right foot, but is capable with either. His quickness and agility is perhaps his best athletic gift as he has the ability to lose defenders both with and without the ball. Standing just shy of 5’6’’, he lacks the stereotypical size of a center forward and a slight build may make him more suited for a central attacking midfield role, or a role on the wing.

Technically, he really has a complete, mature game. He is a clinical finisher with both feet (hence his placement up top) and is able to create his own shot. He can also hit a free kick with both power and accuracy at an elite level. Other than his ability to finish chances, the crafty young star is able to dribble past defenders and put teammates through with weighted passes.

His movement off the ball allows him to find pockets of space in the box, which makes him a constant threat. This intelligent movement also enables him to effectively run the channels, creating space for his teammates.

The fact that Andersson already possesses a developed end product actually bodes well for a shift to the wing. His skill in front of goal and ability to create for teammates, alongside his pace and agility will suit him well in wider areas where most young talents lack quality in the final third. If the Swedish youth international can transition to a role in wider areas he has the physical gifts and technical ability to develop into a top talent.

Next Up: Maximilian Franzke