Juventus has strengthened its youth ranks with the arrival of Grady Makiobo, a promising talent born in 2007. Joining from Anderlecht, the Belgian youngster of Congolese descent arrives at Juventus to reinforce the Under 20 squad, with a clear path towards the Next Gen team.
Makiobo is known for his versatility: primarily a central midfielder, he has also frequently played as a central defender, showcasing impressive tactical flexibility. His imposing physicality combined with good individual technique makes him a compelling prospect. Initially compared to Paul Pogba, his style has also drawn parallels to players like Yaya Touré. He excels in positional sense, ball recovery, and initiating play from deep – qualities highly valued in the modern game.
Makiobo`s journey began in the Anderlecht youth academy, where he stood out for his consistent performances and adaptability across different roles. While detailed statistics on youth appearances or goals aren`t provided in the source, his transfer to Juventus, announced on June 2, 2025 (note: this date appears futuristic in the original source), highlights his significant potential. Under the guidance of figures like the new director Damien Comolli, Juventus is focusing on securing young Italian and international prospects, and Makiobo fits this strategy perfectly. The move is designed to integrate him into the U20 squad and prepare him for the Next Gen team, serving as a vital stepping stone towards the first team.
Expectations for Makiobo are high at Juventus. The club views him as a player capable of rapid development, thanks to his versatility and athleticism. His playing style, which effectively combines physical strength with tactical vision, seems well-suited to the demands of Italian football. Nevertheless, the path to the senior squad will require time, dedication, and consistent high-level performance in the competitive environment of the Next Gen.
- Name:
- Grady Makiobo
- Date of Birth:
- May 11, 2007
- Nationality:
- Belgian
- Role:
- Central Midfielder
- Team:
- Juventus
- Comparison:
- Yaya Touré