Overview
Moses Makasi is an English professional footballer, born on September 22, 1995, in Lewisham, England. Standing at 1.80 meters, he primarily operates as a central or defensive midfielder, a role where his physicality and work rate are particularly effective. Makasi has built a career characterized by his commitment to winning possession and providing a defensive shield for his team's backline. His journey in professional football has seen him feature for multiple clubs, gaining experience across different leagues and footballing cultures.
Position
Makasi's primary position is in the central midfield, often deployed as a defensive midfielder (Defensive Midfielder). In this role, he is responsible for breaking up opposition attacks, protecting the defense, and initiating build-up play from deep areas. His tactical discipline and ability to read the game allow him to intercept passes and win tackles consistently. He can also play as a more traditional central midfielder, contributing to both defensive and offensive phases of play, though his strengths lean towards the former.
Identity
Moses Makasi's footballing identity is defined by his tenacity, athleticism, and leadership. He is often described as a 'ball-winning midfielder' or a 'destroyer' due to his relentless pursuit of possession and his combative style. Beyond his defensive attributes, Makasi is also noted for his ability to cover significant ground, offering an energetic presence that can influence the tempo of a match. His experience across various levels of English football and his stints abroad have shaped him into a resilient and adaptable player.
Career path
Moses Makasi began his footballing journey in the youth academy of West Ham United, a prominent club in English football. He progressed through their ranks, featuring for the U18 and U21 teams, before signing his first professional contract. Despite his potential, breaking into the senior team at West Ham proved challenging, leading to loan spells to gain first-team experience.
West Ham United & Loan Spells
After developing at West Ham, Makasi embarked on his first senior loan move to Plymouth Argyle in January 2018, where he made 13 appearances in League One, contributing to their mid-table finish (Transfermarkt). This spell provided him with valuable competitive minutes. Following his return to West Ham, he was released in the summer of 2018.
Subsequent Club Moves
After his departure from West Ham, Makasi joined Dover Athletic in August 2018. He spent a season with the National League club, making 25 league appearances and establishing himself as a consistent performer in midfield (Transfermarkt). His performances earned him a move to FC Inter Turku in Finland's Veikkausliiga in January 2020. This move represented his first experience playing professional football outside of England, broadening his exposure to different tactical approaches and styles of play. He played a significant role for Inter Turku, contributing to their league campaigns.
Following his time in Finland, Makasi returned to England, joining Maidstone United in 2021. He quickly became a key figure in their midfield, known for his robust performances and leadership on the pitch. His tenure at Maidstone further solidified his reputation as a reliable and influential central midfielder within the English non-league system.
Playing style
Moses Makasi is primarily recognized for his attributes as a defensive midfielder, a role that demands significant tactical awareness, physical prowess, and a strong work ethic. His playing style is characterized by his ability to break up opposition attacks and protect the defensive line. Makasi excels in winning duels, both on the ground and in the air, leveraging his 1.80m frame and strength to dispossess opponents.
One of his key technical attributes is his tackling ability. Makasi demonstrates good timing and aggression in challenges, frequently regaining possession for his team. This is often reflected in his defensive statistics, such as tackles won and interceptions, which highlight his effectiveness in disrupting opposition play (FBref). He also possesses a strong engine, allowing him to cover large areas of the pitch and maintain a high intensity throughout matches, a trait that makes him valuable in pressing schemes.
While primarily defensive, Makasi is also capable of contributing to his team's build-up play. He exhibits decent passing range, particularly in short to medium distances, allowing him to distribute the ball effectively to more creative teammates. His composure under pressure is another notable aspect, enabling him to retain possession in tight situations and initiate counter-attacks. He is not typically a player known for prolific goalscoring or creative assists, but rather for his foundational role in midfield, allowing others to express themselves further up the pitch.
In terms of comparisons, his style might draw parallels with players known for their defensive solidity and work rate in midfield, such as a younger N'Golo Kanté during his early career at Leicester City, or a more direct comparison could be made to players like Francis Coquelin, who prioritize defensive duties and ball recovery. Makasi's consistent application of these attributes makes him a valuable asset to any team needing a strong, reliable presence in the heart of their midfield.
Achievements & honours
While Moses Makasi's career has been more focused on consistent performance and foundational contributions in midfield rather than a multitude of major team trophies, he has been part of successful campaigns and has experienced significant milestones at club level. His time with various clubs has seen him contribute to league promotions and strong cup runs, underscoring his value as a reliable midfielder.
One notable achievement includes his contribution to Maidstone United's promotion to the National League. During his tenure, Makasi played a crucial role in the team's midfield, helping them secure the National League South title. This promotion represented a significant collective achievement for the club and its players, marking a successful period in Makasi's career.
His experience in the Finnish Veikkausliiga with FC Inter Turku also provided him with exposure to top-flight football and competitive cup competitions, where the team consistently challenged at the upper end of the league table. Though specific major trophies may not headline his individual record, his consistent presence in teams that have achieved promotion or competed strongly in their respective leagues highlights his impact.
Individual recognition often comes in the form of consistent selection and being a vital cog in a team's structure, which Makasi has frequently been throughout his career. His leadership qualities and tenacious approach have often been praised by managers and teammates alike, cementing his status as an influential figure on the pitch.
Club Honours
| Club | Competition | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Maidstone United | National League South | 2021-22 |
International career
Moses Makasi has represented England at youth international level, a testament to his early promise and development within the West Ham United academy system. His involvement with the England youth teams provided him with valuable experience competing against peers from other nations and exposure to different footballing styles at a formative stage of his career.
Specifically, Makasi featured for the England U16 and U17 squads. These appearances are crucial for young players, offering a platform to showcase their talents on an international stage and to gain experience in competitive environments (Transfermarkt). Representing his country at these levels is a significant honour and a recognition of his potential during his academy years.
While he has not gone on to earn caps for the senior England national team, his youth international experience remains a notable part of his footballing journey. For many players, youth international football serves as a vital step in their development, providing lessons in international travel, tournament football, and adapting to different tactical instructions. This foundation undoubtedly contributed to his professional resilience and adaptability later in his career.
Players who emerge from the English youth system often face intense competition for senior national team spots, particularly in midfield positions. Makasi's career trajectory saw him move through various club levels, which, while offering consistent playing time, diverged from the path typically taken by those who progress directly into senior international football. Nevertheless, his early international exposure underscores the talent he possessed as a young player.
What makes Moses Makasi stand out
Moses Makasi stands out primarily due to his exceptional work rate and combative style in midfield. His ability to consistently cover ground, engage in duels, and break up play makes him a disruptive force against opposition attacks. He possesses a tenacity that allows him to win back possession in critical areas of the pitch, often turning defensive situations into opportunities for his team to transition.
Another distinguishing trait is his leadership on the pitch. Even without the captain's armband, Makasi often dictates play from deep, organizing his teammates and providing a vocal presence. His experience across various leagues has honed his understanding of game management, allowing him to influence the tempo and tactical approach of his side. This combination of physical output and positional intelligence makes him a vital anchor in midfield.
"Moses is a player who gives you everything. His commitment to winning the ball back and his energy levels are infectious. He's a true competitor."