Wrexham’s right-wing back target Hampus Skogland’s comparison details why he should be the club’s preferred choice over the existing Issa Kabore.
Wrexham’s January transfer window is finally gaining traction, or as the fans would say, now. The reason? Clear enough as they witness the club launching a search operation for the most discussed transfer aspect, the wing-back.
Recently, Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke validated Wrexham’s interest in a right-back prodigy, Hampus Skoglund. So, here we are, making a detailed investigation of whether he’s an upgrade over the existing option, Issa Kabore.
Hampus Skoglund and Issa Kabore’s 2025/26 performances
Deciding the final yes on any transfer places a lot of weight on the touted player’s performances. So is here, but this metric may feel indecisive based on the kind of season they both have had.
Starting with the familiar name, Issa Kabore, the wing-back’s season so far has been a story of 2 halves. Indispensable in the early games, but his prolonged hamstring issues have sponsored this discussion today.
To Wrexham fans’ relief, the Burkina Faso International returned to the pitch yesterday, but only to see his side knocked out of AFCON. While this fuels optimism about his soon return, his comeback in a high-flying Wrexham remains undetermined.
Turning to Hampus Skoglund, the 21-year-old’s season appearances have been grim too. Not due to any injury or suspensions, but with the Swedish Top Flight running from March to November, Skoglund has seen game time at the club level come rarely.
What remains impressive, though, is that in the 5 games he’s played in UEFA Conference League qualifiers and cup competitions, Skoglund has never lost a game while starting. Agreed, the sample size for comparison is limited, which says for the indecision here.
Hampus Skoglund vs Issa Kabore: Balanced comparison
Ever since switching to a 3-4-3, Wrexham have turned into one of the most lethal sides going forward. But that ain’t hiding their defensive vulnerabilities at times, remarking the need for a balanced winger on the right.
Mapping that in consideration of this Sofascore comparison, Skoglund easily edges the comparison over Kabore here.
Starting with the heat map, Skoglund’s ground coverage is more than Kabore’s, which falls in Wrexham’s favour. With a three in the backline, the Dragons ought to prefer the option who drops deep when needed, while maximising numbers in going on an attack.
This choice feels favoured by the attacking and passing comparison. While Kabore outshines Skoglund in crosses, the Swedish wing-back overpowers him in every other aspect. Be it delivering long balls, creating chances upfront, Skoglund’s profile feels tailor-made for a Wrexham shirt.
Finally, turning to the defending metrics, Hampus Skoglund being an all-around right-back leaves Kabore in the dust again. Except for rare wins, Skoglund’s numbers in tackles completed, blocking shots & clearances ought to put him on Wrexham’s radar.
Whom should Wrexham prefer for right back position?
Keeping personal biases & fan connections aside, the above comparison screams Wrexham to pursue Hampus Skoglund. Still, the player’s transfer saga is likely what holds him from being an immediate pick.
Currently, Mainz are touted as big favourites to squeeze Skoglund from beneath Wrexham’s nose. Should that happen, all discussions collapse, and the Dragons immediately ought to move to secure Kabore’s permanent deal.
However, until Skoglund remains a Hammarby player, he must be Wrexham’s priority pick.
Talking about the repercussions, Skoglund’s Dragons’ link must have increased the pressure on Kabore. Just eliminated from the AFCON, he urgently needs to gear up and put in some solid displays for Wrexham, not to lose his fan-favourite reputation.
Even at the earliest, Issa Kabore’s first start in 2026 could come against Norwich on 17th January. Until then, will he remain in competition with Skoglund for Wrexham’s priority right-back choice? We hope so, but one shouldn’t be surprised if Kabore gets sidelined much too soon.
