Progressive Carries
The ability to carry the ball long distances from your own half into the opposition’s final third is an excellent trait for a central midfielder.
During his time at the club, Mateo Kovacic has been outstanding in this regard, but when we look at Kone and Lavia’s progressive carry stats, there is only one winner.
The Gladbach midfielder averages 1.63 per 90, which is more than double that of Lavia (0.72 per 90). Both are still quite a way off Kovacic (who has averaged 2.08 per 90 this season).
