In a head-to-head encounter between Canada and Croatia in the Qatar World Cup group stage, Tajon Buchanan stood out as a man whose career might well be worth watching, particularly for Manchester United.
The 23-year-old was deployed on the right side of a front three and his direct dribbling and decisive play was a constant threat to his opponent’s defence.
Like Alfonso Davies on the opposite flank, Buchanan often plays more forward for his country than his club.
His time in MLS saw him play primarily as a right-back or right-back, loitering down the pitch to support attacks.
Since moving to Club Brugge in January this year, he has played almost every outfield position on the field, including center half.
That versatility has been an important facet of his development, as he has shown a willingness to do whatever is required of him on the court.
It was something that became clear against Croatia. Buchanan did just as good a job making life hell for Croatian left-back Borna Sosa as he did helping to stop any of Ivan Perisic’s attempts to threaten the Canadian defence.
In the early stages of the match, the flank belonged to Buchanan.
His assist for Canada’s opener was a perfect demonstration of his love of the sideline, his attacking threat and his ability to lay the ball up, with his cross converted by Alfonso Davies.
Buchanan’s impact on the right wing was so frequent that Kovacic and Brozovic had to move alongside him to stifle his involvement both on and off possession.
During the second half, Canada made the most of his versatility, playing him at right back, left flank and later up front in search of an equalizer against the Croats.
While the speedster’s adaptability is commendable, his skill set would suggest that, like his compatriot Davies, he is ready for a career as an attacking fullback. The combination of tenacity and deceit make him the spitting image of the modern wingback.
With Man United currently lacking any viable competition for Diogo Dalot’s spot in the squad, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Red Devils scouts show great interest in Buchanan in the future.
He may not yet have the pedigree of Bayern Munich’s left-back, but, given the right circumstances, he could become just as exciting a player for a top-tier club.
The onus will fall on Buchanan to secure an established position in Bruges before making the move, but he is certainly someone to watch out for.
Canada may be out of the World Cup, but you haven’t heard the latest from Tajon Buchanan.
