Alphonso Davies outshone by Dodo in 2024 as Forest eye Serie A full-back

Alphonso Davies was outshone by Fiorentina’s Dodo in 2024 as the Brazilian defender topped Europe’s dribbling charts for full-backs.

Evangelos Marinakis is moving fast in Forest’s transfer window after pocketing £116m from Elliot Anderson’s sale to Manchester City. The club’s summer rebuild is already under way, with Oliver Glasner’s side linked with two right-backs: Fiorentina’s Dodo and Feyenoord’s Givairo Read.

What happened in 2024?

Dodo, 27, topped the 2024 list for most successful dribbles by a defender in Europe’s top five leagues, completing 57 in the calendar year. The haul included Alphonso Davies, Alejandro Balde and Nuno Tavares, per AS. The Brazilian’s explosiveness in attack has made him a standout performer since his 2022 move from Shakhtar Donetsk to Serie A.

Davies, meanwhile, ranked among the leaders but fell short of Dodo’s tally. The Canadian’s 2024 campaign still stood out for his usual blend of pace and crossing, though the dribbling crown went to the Fiorentina man.

Why it matters for Alphonso Davies

The comparison spotlights Davies’ role as one of the elite attacking full-backs in world football. While Davies’ 2024 output included goals and assists, Dodo’s dribbling edge underscores the tactical versatility Forest seek in a right-back.

Glasner’s side has lacked options down the flank for two seasons, relying on Ola Aina’s defensive reliability. Aina’s 1.19 tackles per 90 in his league outstrip Dodo’s 0.52, per FotMob, but the Italian brings a different threat in the final third.

What comes next for Forest and Davies?

Forest’s £116m war chest leaves room for multiple signings, and Dodo tops their shortlist. The Reds are expected to act before the window slams shut, with Read also in the mix.

For Davies, the 2024 dribbling duel is a footnote in a career already packed with Champions League nights and Bundesliga titles. His next move-whether at Bayern Munich or beyond-will hinge on his own ambitions and the club’s plans.

Dodo’s arrival wouldn’t erase Davies’ standing, but it would shift the balance in Forest’s transfer race. The race is on to see who lands the Brazilian before the deadline.

Sources: Football Insider and FotMob