Manchester United, Brentford, Luton Town and Sheffield United are among the top European clubs reportedly interested in signing 20-year-old Kenyan central midfielder Timothy Ouma.Jamie Rietiker-Wright, a former performance and data scout at Cardiff City Academy, has explained why Ouma is a player to watch as he rises in European football.Currently attached to Midas Sports, Jamie believes that Ouma’s physicality, high energy, and strong game intelligence make him an exciting prospect heading into the summer transfer window.##NAJAVA_MECA_8502392##Physicality and AthleticismDescribed as a “leggy, high-energy” midfielder, Ouma uses his athleticism and power to cover a lot of ground and dominate midfield duels.His robust approach to challenges allows him to power through and assert himself in defensive situations. This was on full display during IF Elfsborg’s Europa League clash with AZ Alkmaar. Ouma scored a stunning goal and provided an assist in the second half, outclassing Alkmaar’s midfield.Physical 🦾Ouma is a leggy, high energy midfielder who gets around the pitch well using his athleticism and power. He’s robust in his duels using the power in his legs to follow through and dominate these scenarios.— Jamie Rietiker-Wright (@jrietikerwright) November 13, 2024 Manchester United among clubs scouting Kenyan star midfielderPlaying Style and Technical AbilityAlthough not the most technically gifted player, Ouma is highly functional. He is at his best when he keeps his game simple, knitting together short passes to maintain possession and build attacks.While his passing range can be effective at times, Jamie notes that Ouma would benefit from refining his ball control, especially when receiving the ball with his back to play.Tactical Awareness and VersatilityTactically, Ouma is an all-rounder in midfield. He contributes to both the defensive and attacking phases of play, making late runs into the box and supporting his forwards with intelligent movement.In central areas, he reads the game well, breaking up opposition attacks and being quick to latch onto loose balls. His ability to cover large areas of the pitch and his all-around presence make him a versatile player for any midfield.Mentality 🧠Ouma came over from Kenyan academy, Nairobi City Stars, in 2022. He never really got going in his first two seasons but worked hard and in 2024 he’s been vital to Elfsborg’s league and European campaigns with 34 apps so far.— Jamie Rietiker-Wright (@jrietikerwright) November 13, 2024 ##NAJAVA_MECA_8507015##Rise at ElfsborgOuma joined IF Elfsborg from Nairobi City Stars in 2022 after starting his career at Hope Center Academy.Although his first two seasons in Sweden were slow to take off, the midfielder has blossomed in 2024, becoming a key figure in Elfsborg’s league and European campaigns.So far, Ouma has made 34 appearances, scoring three goals and providing three assists.TACTICAL ANALYSIS: How Engin Firat’s game plan cost Harambee Stars 2025 AFCON berthNext step in his careerDespite the growing interest from top clubs like Manchester United, Jamie Rietiker-Wright believes Ouma’s next move should be away from the Premier League for the time being.“Ouma is undoubtedly ready for the next step in his career,” Jamie says. “His athleticism and contribution to both defensive and attacking phases make him an all-rounder who could benefit many teams. However, a move to Belgium or the Netherlands seems like the most sensible next stage in his development.”
