“Unique” Joe Aribo likened to former Barcelona star

The accolades continue pouring in for the Nigerian star, and this time, he has been likened to a former Barcelona midfielder

Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa has likened Nigerian star Joe Aribo to former Barcelona and Manchester City star Yaya Toure.

Toure was known for his adept ability in midfield. The Ivorian’s ability to move past opponents easily and control the game from midfield was extraordinary. And he was always available to bail out his team with his goals.

Konsa also sees these qualities of the former CAF player of the year in Aribo.

“Joe’s style is unique. When I was with him at Charlton, he did remind me for a while of a left-footed Yaya Toure,” Konsa told Daily Record. 

“But you don’t get a lot of midfielders like Joe, there aren’t many around.”

“Like Toure, for a tall guy, he’s got such great feet.”

“But that languid style he’s got is actually fairly unique in the game.”

Aribo is also confident on the ball, and his ability to dictate play is outstanding. The Nigerian has also proven his versatility as he has been deployed as an unorthodox winger in some games, and he always exudes his prowess.

Last week was pure evidence of his ability as he scored a wonderful goal against Ross County. Konsa was his teammate at Charlton Athletic, and he affirmed his belief in Aribo’s abilities, even from their days at the Valley.

“The stuff he did on a pitch at times was unreal. It was like he was still playing street football. So we knew he’d go far in the game.”

They both started at Charlton Athletic, but Aribo left for Rangers in 2019 after helping them secure promotion to the English Championship.

It turned out to be the best decision for the Nigerian international as, since his move to Ibrox, he has improved in leaps and bounds.

In his first season, Aribo made 27 League starts and scored three. He also played a key role in the Gers Europa League campaign despite losing in the knockout stages.

Aribo was also a key figure in Rangers’ midfield last season. He played an important role in last season’s flawless league campaign, which saw them emerge as Champions.

Konsa believes the reason for his success is not far-fetched as he is under the tutelage of one of the best midfielders in football history in Steven Gerrard.

“I always thought it would be a good move for him, especially with Gerrard there as his manager. He was only ever going to improve going up there,” Konsa added.

Aribo has only a year left on his contract, but Rangers will do everything to make sure that he stays at Ibrox, as filling his void would be a herculean task.