Archange Bintsouka (2002) - CF - FK Partizani (Albania, Band 6) - Contract Expiry: 2027
6ft+ Congolese centre forward with a 'prodigious leap' currently playing in Band 6
Many of our reports end up with us recommending players into the Championship or League One. This is almost unavoidable when selecting players via a data profile that may veer between impressive to decent and get a GBE or ESC pass.
If you are a bottom end League One club or a League Two club the margins of your talent ID are much more narrow. However, as this report will demonstrate, there are still players that are potentially suitable to improve your prospects.
Band 6 is a difficult shopping area because you are relying on players getting a work permit via a different means than just playing league football as you can in Bands 1-5.
Archange Bintsouka does qualify for ESC, but his window is running out. Despite Partizani qualifying for the Conference League again this season, Bintsouka didn’t play in either of the legs of the tie that they lost. This means that his appearances in last season’s competition are the only ones that allow him to qualify for an ESC.
The Albanian league is of low quality, but is comparable to League Two or the Scottish Championship. The pay in Albania is low, certainly within the realms of League One or League Two clubs to pay. Bintsouka did sign an extended deal this year to stay with Partizani until 2027, which means that a fee would need to be paid for his services, this is often a stumbling block for League One and League Two clubs.
Bintsouka was watched by Sam Hutchinson, and his report is presented below.
Biographical Details
Name: Archange Bintsouka
Age/D.o.B: 22 (25.10.2002)
Citizenship: Congolo
Position(s): CF
Club: FK Partizani
Height: Approx 187cm
Preferred foot: right
TM Market Value: £280k
Contract: Expiry: 30.06.2027
Status
GBE Status: 2pts
ESC Status: Pass (Played in UEFA Conference League qualifiers)
Match Info
Observed: 1st December 2024 vs Tirana (Kategoria Superiore) - Moderate Difficulty
Final score: 0-0
Shape: 4-3-3 (vs 4-2-3-1)
Brief match report: This game lacked any real intensity or creative flair. Partizani were happy to sit off their opponents. Tirana struggled to break down Partizani’s compact shape. Clear cut chances were few and far between. Yet neither side could capitalise on any of the chances that presented themselves.
Match report
Effectiveness of role
Playing as a lone centre forward, Bintsouka constantly made himself available to receive the ball. He had the ability to drop and receive the ball deep. In these situations, his link-up play disappointed. His passes would often go astray or be easily intercepted. Bintsouka could stretch the opposition’s defence. He utilised effective double movements to free himself of marking before making a dynamic run behind the defence. Despite Bintsouka's excellent movement to get in behind the opposition, he was fairly static in the box while awaiting a cross. This was a reason why he had limited opportunities throughout the match. The one clear opportunity he had he earned through one of his brilliant runs in behind Tirana’s backline. However, he struck his effort straight at the goalkeeper from close range.
Defensively, Bintsouka was disciplined. He played a pivotal role in executing his side’s mid-block set-up. He would carefully screen the opposition’s holding midfielder. As the opposition’s centre-backs dribbled forward with the ball, Bintsouka understood the correct moment to leave his team’s shape and press. He was fantastic at reacting to pressing triggers and often forced mistakes in these moments. Bintsouka played a key role during defensive set pieces, using his aerial assets to clear the ball effectively.
Physical attributes
Bintsouka stands at 6ft 1 and has an athletic build. He had great success at winning the ball in the air. A large reason for his aerial success was his outstanding leap. This allowed him to rise above challenging defenders and flick the ball on. He was quick over distance and caused the opposition’s defenders issues with his runs in behind. Bintsouka had a decent level of strength. He didn’t hide from the contact of challenging opposition. He was on the end of several nasty collisions and fouls. He showed good robustness to shake off these challenges.
Technical skill
Bintsouka’s first touch was exceptional. He could kill every type of pass that was played towards him. After displaying an excellent first touch, Bintsouka disappointed with the quality of his pass. Many of his passes lacked the needed weight and accuracy to find his teammates. Bintsouka’s heading technique impressed. He directed his flick-ons perfectly into the path of supporting teammates.
Decision making under pressure
Bintsouka gave the ball away at times when being pressed intensely with his back to goal. His passing was also poor when he needed to play a vital pass to progress the ball forward. Bintsouka also looked rushed during the two opportunities he had. This led to him failing to make a clean connection with the ball and subsequently failing to trouble the goalkeeper.
Psychological & Social
Bintsouka showed a lot of composure and discipline throughout the match. He suffered several fouls that the referee failed to give. Despite an apparent injustice, he didn’t complain to the official. Bintsouka constantly wanted to make an impact on the game. Despite not having the most productive game in the final third, he didn’t hide. He continued to demand the ball as his side attempted to win the game in the dying stages of the match.
Any Other Business
Bintsouka completed the match, putting in a decent performance. His athletic capabilities and defensive discipline were the most pleasing aspects of his game. However, his link-up play and finishing disappointed.
I believe from this performance Bintsouka would be at the level to play a mid-table team in League 2 or the Scottish Championship. He may suit playing alongside a more prolific striker or wide players who provide a goal threat.
If he improved his finishing and link-up play, Bintsouka would be a highly coveted forward. Development in these areas could see him make the step up to a mid-table team in League 1 or the Scottish Premiership.
Verdict
Key strengths
Athleticism
Defensive discipline
Runs in behind the defence
Risks to mitigate
Poor passing
Static movement in the box
Rushed his chances
Current UK level recommendation
EFL: L2 (Mid-range League 2)
SPFL: CH (Mid-range Championship)
Potential UK level recommendation
EFL: L1 (Mid-range League 1)
SPFL: SPL (Mid-range Premiership)