Players like Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar aren’t for sure, because defending should also be in the conversation. The Camavinga memes had me thinking, is there a player who was/is actually really good at everything, or at least most things inside the pitch?
Gullit, Yaya Toure, Matthaus and in general box2box players could do anything from defending to scoring. Pogba when he was world class is a good example. Defenders who scored regurarly like Ramos, Hierro or Koeman, even fullbacks like Marcelo or Dani Alves are exceptional on many things.
Another fun pick would be Jorge Campos, the goalkeeper who also played as an attacker sometimes.
I think CMs, usually “box 2 box” or whether they be “attacking or defensive”, are the type of players that qualify, or have this ability, not all, but some.
Some, have that ability to defend, play-make & dribble confidentiality, or carry the ball well, and can also find the back of the net & score a banger or two every once in a while, as for goalkeeping, the only outfield player who I’ve seen footage of, in goal is Camavinga & I’ve got to say, he looked pretty decent & his outfield playability & versatility, also allows him to be utilised in several positions.
Caicedo can do this too, he can play centrally & on either flank in a defensive capacity or as a Wingback.
As an Arsenal “fanboy😂” I believe Declan Rice “although more centrally” could play as a No6,8, and get ready for it, and I know I’ll probably get a lot of flack for saying it but, I think he could deputise if needed as a No10 😳 yes, thats right No10… Let it sink in & provoke some thought 🤔
Not saying that he should play that role but I think his versatility is clear to see… Not only that, but in all his interviews he’s confidentiality stated “he’ll play anywhere the gaffer wants him to.” He did the same at “West Ham” too… Declan Rice is the consummate professional & even though I was one of the many that gasped at his price tag, I believe we’re reaping the dividends on it already & long may it continue…
And as a person that really wanted Caicedo, and Mudryk at the club, I’m all the more happier with the returns we’re getting from “Rice & Trossard” as compared to the former names mentioned at Chelsea, although Chelsea do appear to slowly getting g their act together, although not necessarily those two players, and certain not Mudryk 🤣