AdminAston Villa midfielder endured a bruising battle during Switzerland’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Slovenia on Saturday evening.
The Swiss continued their perfect start to the group campaign thanks to an own goal from Erik Janza and a strike from Dan Ndoye in Luzern.
Signed from Freiburg during the summer, Johan Manzambi had to wait patiently for his Villa debut after missing the opening three Premier League matches while recovering from a knee injury. Thankfully, the 20-year-old escaped another setback despite the treatment he received against Slovenia.
According to blue News, Slovenia appeared to deliberately target Manzambi with their aggressive approach.
“The Slovenians’ strategy seemed clear: With a tight defensive block of five defenders and a tough – and at times overly aggressive – style of play,” they wrote.
“The team led by former center back Bostjan Cesar aimed to stop the Swiss attacks.
“Johan Manzambi, in particular, felt the brunt of the tackles time and again.”
Despite the physical attention, Manzambi delivered an impressive performance. According to FotMob, he led all players with three shots and three completed dribbles.
He also created one chance, completed five passes into the final third, won four fouls and nine of his 15 ground duels. He added three recoveries and two tackles.
Switzerland face North Macedonia on Tuesday before Manzambi returns to Aston Villa.
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