The Spotlight: Botann Demir
The eccentric centre-back reigniting my love for this position.
This week, The Spotlight is on Botann Demir, a unique central defender making waves at FC Montfermeil’s U17 National squad. With his unconventional style and exciting flair, Botann is challenging traditional perceptions of the centre-back role, bringing a refreshing dynamism to his position. His profile underscores a growing trend of defenders who not only hold their ground but also change the way the game is played from the back.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Despite digging through various sources, I’ve found that information on Botann is scarce. What we do know is that he played at Blanc Mesnil SF (yes, another talent from Île-de-France). After that, he made a move to Corsica, joining the academy of AC Ajaccio. Curiously, he only stayed there for one season, which strikes me as odd, though I couldn’t find any further details to explain this short stint.
To get his career back on track, he joined FC Montfermeil this season to play in the U17 National league. I got the chance to observe him during the first match of the season and was immediately drawn to his profile.
Profile on the pitch
When it comes to him, one of the first thing you notice is his relentless combative spirit. His determination and grit are palpable on the field, setting him apart as a defender who thrives on duels. Whether it’s winning a crucial tackle or chasing down an attacker, his hunger to dominate is ever-present. Yet, this fiery approach can sometimes cloud his judgment, leading to moments where his eagerness overtakes his clarity. That said, facing him in a one-on-one situation is intimidating for any opponent.
What adds an intriguing layer to Botann's profile is his willingness to express himself on the field in ways we rarely see from central defenders. His playful, almost showy approach contrasts with the traditional stoic nature of his position. Whether through his body language or his confidence in tight spaces, he seems to enjoy every moment on the pitch. This excentricity can be both an asset and a potential risk, as it may at times take away from the discipline needed in his defensive role.
Technically, Botann shows real potential in breaking the opposition’s press. His ability to play progressive passes through the lines and his confidence to carry the ball forward are impressive. However, it’s important to note that these traits are still developing, and he will need time and experience to consistently execute them at a higher level. His comfort on the ball, combined with a knack for playing long, precise passes, hints at a player who could eventually evolve into a key playmaker from deep positions. To me, his profile stands out as a modern, progressive centre-back with intriguing similarities to a player I admire (You’ll find out who in just a moment!).
There’s no doubt that Botann's profile as a centre-back stands out, but how far he goes will depend on how he continues to adapt and grow within these key areas of his game.
Echoes of Boscagli in Botann’s game
Much like Olivier Boscagli, Botann exhibits traits that challenge the conventional understanding of a central defender’s role. Boscagli, now a key player at PSV Eindhoven, has made a name for himself as a versatile and dynamic defender who thrives not only in his defensive duties but also in orchestrating play from the back. His ability to dictate the tempo, break lines, and join offensive phases makes him an essential part of PSV’s build-up play.
Botann shares some of these defining attributes. His comfort on the ball and desire to progress play through incisive passes or by carrying the ball forward echoes Boscagli’s progressive style.
Where the two align most is in their ability to step out of defense and contribute meaningfully to their team’s offensive phases. Botann, like Boscagli, doesn’t shy away from taking risks with the ball at his feet, often attempting long balls to switch play or break an opponent’s pressing lines. This shared capacity for vision and execution makes both players valuable assets, not just in defense but in their teams' overall attacking strategy.
Looking Ahead
I have no doubt that Botann's profile will make him a heavily scouted player this season, especially given that he's now at FC Montfermeil—a club that always draws attention from French scouts. It wouldn’t be surprising at all if he receives trial offers as the season progresses. That being said, like any young player, he has areas for improvement, and I believe certain French academies could provide the right environment to help him grow and unlock his full potential.