- Date of birth: 04/05/2006 (17 Years)
- Current club: AZ Alkmaar
- Preferred foot: Right
- Height: 173 cm
- Current market value: 300k
- Key strengths: Positioning, passing, tackles
- Improvements: Decision making, urgency
Is Enoch Mastoras destined to be the next shining star from AZ Alkmaar’s renowned youth academy in the coming years? He undeniably possesses the potential to make a breakthrough. At just 17 years old, Mastoras has already secured his place in the spotlight, showcasing his talents primarily as a defensive midfielder, with right-back as his secondary position, for AZ Alkmaar’s under-23 squad in the Dutch second tier (Jong AZ). He was also part of AZ’s winning UEFA Youth League squad, where he played in all matches. This season, he is once again in the lineup and has featured in matches such as the battle for the World Cup against Boca Juniors.
Having recently inked a contract extension with AZ Alkmaar until 2026, Mastoras is clearly a player of interest for the club’s future plans. His journey through AZ’s youth system underscores his rapid rise, transitioning from playing as a center-back and right-back to his current role in midfield. This adaptability speaks volumes about his versatility and value to the team. This is making him a valuable part of the under-23 squad of AZ throughout their season in the second tier of Dutch football.
Strengths
Mastoras boasts an impressive array of strengths that make him a standout prospect. His ball retention skills are notable, demonstrating remarkable composure and control even when faced with intense pressure from opponents. This ability to maintain possession under duress serves as a solid foundation for his team’s build-up play. Something that has allowed him to be a vital part of the quick buildup play that AZ like to play, also in their youth system.
Equally impressive is Mastoras’s precision passing, a skill that allows him to orchestrate play and keep the tempo flowing seamlessly. Whether it’s a short, crisp pass or a long, pinpoint delivery, he consistently finds his teammates with accuracy, driving his team forward. This consistency makes him an even more complete defensive minded midfielder.
Defensively, Mastoras exhibits astute positional awareness, enabling him to anticipate and intercept opposition passes effectively, thwarting their advances and initiating counterattacks.
Furthermore, Mastoras’s versatility shines through in his capacity to slot into various defensive positions, seamlessly adapting to the demands of each role. This adaptability not only underscores his tactical acumen but also enhances his overall utility to the squad.
Weaknesses
Despite his considerable strengths, Mastoras is not without areas for improvement. One aspect that warrants attention is his decision-making under pressure. There are instances where he struggles to gauge the appropriate pace of play, leaving him susceptible to turnovers and counterattacks.
Additionally, enhancing his situational awareness, particularly during defensive transitions, could further bolster his defensive contributions and minimize vulnerabilities in the backline. What is notable is that both of these areas of improvement are related to maturing as a player and gaining more experiences in the above mentioned situations.
Current ability and potential
Presently, Mastoras holds his own in the competitive environment of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, showcasing his capabilities on a consistent basis. However, his potential transcends the confines of the Dutch second tier. With continued development and opportunities at AZ Alkmaar, he stands poised to make a significant impact at higher levels, potentially securing a move to top-tier leagues in the future.
Conclusion
Enoch Mastoras is emerging as a young talent destined for greater prominence in the footballing landscape. His blend of technical prowess, tactical versatility, and potential for growth position him as a player to watch closely. As he continues to ply his trade with Jong AZ and beyond, expect Mastoras to leave an indelible mark on the footballing world, cementing his status as a rising star worth following.
This Scout Report is written by Jacques Bourgeois, video scout at 360 Scouting.
Target Scouting 