Carlos Soler Barragán is a name that resonates with football fans worldwide. Born on January 2, 1997, in Valencia, Spain, Soler has carved out an impressive career as a versatile midfielder. From his early days kicking a ball at Bonrepòs to his current stint with West Ham United, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, Soler's journey is nothing short of inspiring. He has not only shone at the club level but also made significant contributions to the Spain national team. Whether it's his knack for scoring goals, his leadership on the pitch, or his dedication to community projects, Soler embodies the spirit of modern football.
Early Life and Introduction to Football
Carlos Soler’s journey into football began at a very young age. His early experiences shaped his future in the sport.
- Carlos Soler was introduced to football at the age of four, taking shots at half-time during his brother's games for Bonrepòs.
- Initially too shy to join the team, he was persuaded by his grandfather, who promised him a Game Boy for attending.
Youth Career
Soler’s youth career laid the foundation for his professional success. His versatility and skills were honed during these formative years.
- Soler joined Valencia's youth setup in 2005, starting as a prolific striker.
- He transitioned from striker to attacking midfielder and then to central midfielder, showcasing his adaptability.
Senior Debut
Carlos Soler’s senior debut marked the beginning of his professional journey, highlighting his potential early on.
- Soler made his senior debut with Valencia's reserves on May 3, 2015, in a 1–0 loss against Cornellà.
- He scored his first senior goal on December 13, 2015, in a 2–2 draw at Badalona.
Professional Career
Soler’s professional career has been marked by significant achievements and contributions to his teams.
- Soler made 226 appearances and scored 36 goals for Valencia, becoming a key player.
- He helped Valencia win the Copa del Rey in 2019, a major highlight of his career.
- In 2022, Soler joined Paris Saint-Germain for an €18 million fee, winning two Ligue 1 titles.
- He also won the Trophée des Champions with PSG in 2022.
International Career
Carlos Soler has represented Spain at various levels, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
- Soler was part of the Spanish Olympic team that won a silver medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan.
- He made his senior debut for Spain on September 2, 2021, in a 2–1 loss against Sweden.
- Soler scored his first goal for the national team three days later in a 4–0 win over Georgia.
- He was called up for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring in Spain's 7–0 victory over Costa Rica.
Personal Life
Beyond football, Carlos Soler has interests and experiences that shape his personality and life.
- Soler started a degree in sports journalism but did not complete it.
- He regularly watched the Premier League on Canal+ as a child, learning English in the process.
Playing Style
Soler’s playing style is characterized by his versatility and technical skills, making him a valuable player.
- Known for his ability to play in various midfield positions, Soler excels at creating scoring opportunities.
- He often completes over 85% of his passes, showcasing his strong passing game.
Scouting Report
Carlos Soler’s performance metrics highlight his strengths and contributions on the field.
- Non-Penalty Goals: 0.16 per 90 minutes (85th percentile).
- Assists: 0.16 per 90 minutes (80th percentile).
- Shot-Creating Actions: 3.03 per 90 minutes (72nd percentile).
- Passes Attempted: 64.20 per 90 minutes (82nd percentile).
- Pass Completion %: 85.7% (67th percentile).
Similar Players
Soler is often compared to other top midfielders due to his exceptional skills and vision.
- Players like Luka Modrić and Kevin De Bruyne are often cited as similar to Soler.
Career Statistics
Carlos Soler’s career statistics reflect his consistent performance and contributions to his teams.
- Valencia (2015-2022): 226 appearances, 36 goals.
- Paris Saint-Germain (2022-2024): 2 Ligue 1 titles, 1 Trophée des Champions.
- International Caps: 14 senior caps for Spain.
Personal Achievements
Soler’s personal achievements highlight his dedication and success both on and off the field.
- He won the UEFA U21 European Championship with Spain in 2017.
- Soler reached his 100th appearance for Valencia in 2020.
- He achieved his 50th cap for Spain in 2023.
Carlos Soler's Impact on Football
Carlos Soler has made a significant mark in football. From his early days at Valencia to his current role at Paris Saint-Germain, his journey showcases talent, versatility, and dedication. Winning the Copa del Rey with Valencia and two Ligue 1 titles with PSG highlights his contributions to club success. His international career, including a silver medal at the Olympics and participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, underscores his importance to Spain's national team.
Soler's playing style, marked by strong passing and game control, sets him apart. His leadership on the field and commitment to community projects off it make him a role model. As he continues to excel, his legacy as one of football's promising midfielders grows. Carlos Soler is not just a player; he's an inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide.
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