At the start of the 2024-2025 season, 17-year-old Sol Sidibe had already shown signs of being an important player for Stoke City. Under the previous manager, Steven Schumacher, Sidibe was given plenty of opportunities, proving his potential as one of the most promising young talents in English football.
However, after Schumacher's departure and the arrival of Narcís Pelach, Sidibe struggled to find playing time. He spent much of the early part of the season as either a substitute or not included in the matchday squad for EFL Championship matches. His first significant minutes under Pelach came in the 1-1 draw against Millwall, where he played 23 minutes—a modest but crucial start under the new manager.
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Key Performance Against Queen’s Park Rangers
In Stoke’s most recent match against Queen's Park Rangers on November 23, Sidibe was given a start, playing a total of 75 minutes. His performance in that game was noteworthy, showcasing his growing importance to the team.
"We're progressing both as a team and individually."
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) November 23, 2024
Sol Sidibe's summary as City extend unbeaten run to four. pic.twitter.com/YsusNMQY2g
Despite being just 17, Sidibe played a crucial role in midfield, providing both defensive cover and offensive support. During his 75 minutes on the field, he recorded 38 touches of the ball, with a pass completion rate of 76% (25 completed passes out of 33 attempts). His ability to link play and contribute to both the defensive and offensive aspects of the game was evident, particularly as he played as a pivot in midfield.
The Future for Sidibe at Stoke City
While Sidibe didn’t necessarily have the best statistical game, his positioning and understanding of the game were impressive. This performance suggests that he is on the brink of becoming a key player for Stoke City as the season continues.
Manager Narcís Pelach has shown confidence in the young midfielder, and it’s clear that Sidibe’s potential is being nurtured as part of Stoke’s long-term project. With more minutes on the field, Sidibe’s development will be key, and it’s likely that he will be considered for more regular appearances as the season progresses, further cementing his place in the squad.