Richarlison is high-risk high-reward for Everton

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Richarlison of Watford in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on March 11, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Richarlison of Watford in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on March 11, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
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The jury is out over Richarlison’s transfer to Everton last month. The statistics show that the Brazilian has huge potential, but is a high risk for the Blues.

When Everton snapped up Richarlison for around £40 million last month, Blues fans were right to be confused.

As pointed out on this site, the signing looked to be a gamble. The Brazilian failed to assert himself in the second half of last season – burning out quickly after a hot start. It is easy to see Richarlison’s arrival as a vanity signing for Marco Silva, who is perhaps still basking in ten games of above averageness with Watford at the start of 2017-18.

This confusion is merited. The statistics show a mixed bag for Richarlison – ultimately suggesting him as a high-risk, high-reward option. Below, we take a deep dive into his performance last year, to assess his skillset, his improvement areas, and realistic expectations for the Brazilian in 2018-19.