Becir Omeragic - Switzerland's Top Young Defender
Becir Omeragic: A profile of one of Europe’s best young defenders
Becir Omeragic is one of Europe’s most highly-touted young defenders. Standing at 6 ft 2” and already a full Switzerland international, it’s easy to see why the pursuit of his signature is hotting up around the continent. As part of our 21 Under 21 Series, we look at some of the best young players in world football that already have senior caps for their country. Today, Becir Omeragic.
Where was Becir Omeragic born?
Omeragic was born in Geneva to Bosniak parents on the 20th January 2002. He spent a year in Servette’s academy before joining FC Zurich’s ranks in the summer of 2018. It is here where Omeragic was given his chance in the first team.
What position does Becir Omeragic play?
The 19-year-old plays as the right-sided centre-back for his club in a back 4, occasionally filling in at right-back when required.
His 3 appearances for Switzerland have all come at centre-back. With national team coach Vladimir Petkovic preferring to field a back 3, his chances of nailing down a regular spot for his country for years to come look increasingly likely.
What are Becir Omeragic’s attributes?
Omeragic is a perfect example of a modern-day centre-back. Calmness on the ball, unlimited passing range and a deceiving turn of pace, he has all attributes required to make a real success of himself. His versatility allows him to play in a back 4, a back 3 or as a right-back, a trait becoming ever more coveted by coaches around the world.
When did Becir Omeragic get his chance?
After some impressive displays playing in the second-tier for FC Zurich’s u21 side, Omeragic was handed his senior debut on the 4th May 2019 against bitter rivals Basel, playing the final 10 minutes of a 3-0 defeat. 4 more top-flight appearances that season saw him become a fully-fledged member of the first-team setup. The 2019/20 season was when he made his breakthrough, clocking up 19 more top tier appearances.
What impact has Becir Omeragic had?
It’s not often that an 18 year-old establishes himself in any starting XI, but Omeragic did just that in the 2019/20 season. With FC Zurich having spent a season in the second tier as recently as the 2016/17 season, the club are still in the process of re-establishing themselves as a top-flight force.
After two consecutive 7th place finishes in the 10 team Swiss Challenge League, the club find themselves in the same position with 4 games to go this season. While that may not count as a remarkable return, the building blocks are in place to aim for a first league title since 2008/09.
When did Becir Omeragic make his international debut?
Omeragic made his international bow on the 7th October 2020, playing the full 90 minutes in a 2-1 friendly defeat by Croatia. This was followed up by 2 more caps later that month, a 15 minute run out in a defeat to Belgium and a 6 minute showing in a 1-1 Nations League draw with Spain, where he took the field against childhood hero Sergio Ramos.
Injury kept him out of Switzerland's most recent round of matches, but having skipped the u21 squad entirely, it’s clear the Swiss FA see a big future for the classy defender.
What is Becir Omeragic worth?
With his club FC Zurich looking for some financial stability, it may not take an eye-watering amount to prize him away. Some reports have linked him with a €12million move to Bundesliga, a fairly minimal amount for a teenager with full international honours to his name.
According to transfermarkt.com, his value stands at £4.5million. A move to a more reputable league and further impressive showings at international level could see that valuation increase exponentially.
What clubs have been linked with Becir Omeragic?
Following the success stories of compatriots Manuel Akanji (Dortmund) and Nico Elvedi (Monchengladbach), it would be of no surprise to see Omeragic move to the Bundesliga.
Champions League hopefuls Wolfsburg have been credited with interest among others. In recent weeks, reports have emerged from the capital that Union Berlin are prepared to break their transfer record to capture the Swiss’ signature. Die Eisernen have enjoyed an outstanding 2nd season in the Bundesliga and would be a great fit for Omeragic. His place in the starting XI would be guaranteed and his development could progress naturally.
Which player does Becir Omeragic compare to?
A tall commanding presence, underrated ability and a head of blonde hair, Omeragic draws comparisons to Finnish great Sami Hyypia. The former FC Zurich manager enjoyed an incredibly successful career and Omeragic will be well placed if he manages to match his achievements.
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