The Winger Made an Instant Impact in His First Start Since Returning from Foot Injury
Kevin Paredes marked his long-awaited return to competitive action with an immediate impact, providing an assist just three minutes into Wolfsburg's enthralling 2-2 draw against Mainz. The American winger, starting for the first time since suffering a broken foot in preseason training last August, demonstrated why he's been so missed during his seven-month injury layoff.
Operating as a right wingback in Wolfsburg's asymmetrical 5-3-2 formation, Paredes showed no signs of rust as he raced up the right flank to receive Mohamed Amoura's pass in the opening minutes. Paredes started the move with a flick centrally before bursting down the flank, receiving the ball back just into the final third of the field. Though his initial attempt to feed the ball into the box was partially cleared, Paredes' quick thinking allowed him to recover possession and set up Maximilian Arnold for a spectacular long-range strike from 31 yards, giving Wolfsburg an early lead.
The Virginia native's influence extended beyond his assist. During his 63-minute appearance, he contributed two key passes and four shots. Wolfsburg manager Ralph Hasenhüttl praised the 21-year-old as "an invigorating presence and a threat in front of goal."
Despite Paredes' bright start, Mainz fought back through goals from Jae-sung Lee and Dominik Kohr before halftime to take a 2-1 lead. Wolfsburg eventually salvaged a point when Denis Vavro headed home from a corner in the 89th minute. Concern arose when Paredes left the pitch in visible discomfort after Mainz's Kohr raked his studs down the back of his leg in the 51st minute. While initially continued after treatment, he was substituted shortly thereafter, though he walked off without assistance.
Paredes' return represents a potential boost to a national team that struggled in recent Nations League matches. His dribbling ability and attacking urgency could potentially add much-needed spark to either flank.
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