Maksimilian Skvortsov (2007)

Maksimilian Skvortsov • 18-year-old midfielder • Estonia

Maksimilian Skvortsov is an 18-year-old central midfielder playing for FCI Levadia in the Estonian Premium Liiga. Standing 178 cm tall, he primarily operates as a number eight, usually in the right half-space but equally comfortable on the left.

Despite not being physically imposing, he is strong through the hips and has a low centre of gravity and excellent balance. This allows him to shield the ball well and compete aggressively in midfield.

One of the first things that stands out is his intensity. Skvortsov combines quick feet with an excellent work rate and covers large areas of the pitch. He is particularly impressive in ground duels, winning 6.6 per 90 minutes with a 51% success rate according to SofaScore.

Although not a flashy dribbler, he has clean close control, escapes pressure well and carries the ball confidently through midfield.

His football intelligence is exceptional for his age. Constantly scanning before receiving possession, he plays with a composure that makes him look far more experienced than 18.

Predominantly right-footed, Skvortsov regularly breaks defensive lines with perfectly weighted through balls, averaging an outstanding 1.9 key passes per game. He also delivers dangerous crosses from open play and set pieces.

The young Estonian provides genuine attacking output. He contributes with both goals and assists, often arriving late into the penalty area with excellent timing. His finishing with his stronger right foot is composed, while he has also shown that he can attack crosses effectively, highlighted by an outstanding headed goal against Nõmme United.

His right foot is a major weapon. Whether shooting from distance, delivering corners and free-kicks or taking penalties, he consistently produces quality.

Many young midfielders stand out because of one outstanding attribute. Skvortsov’s greatest strength may be his consistency. Whether defending, progressing play, creating chances or arriving in the box, he performs every aspect of the game to a remarkably high level for his age.

Areas for improvement

Like any young midfielder, Skvortsov still has areas to refine.

Confident in his shooting ability, he occasionally pulls the trigger too early instead of recognising a better passing option. Averaging 2.5 shots per game while only 0.6 hit the target suggests there is room for better decision-making.

His aerial game could also improve. Although his height naturally limits him somewhat, better timing and aggression would make him an even more complete midfielder, particularly in more physical leagues.

Adding more penetrative runs beyond the defensive line would also diversify his game. Much of his attacking output currently comes from intelligent late runs into the box.

Career trajectory and current form

A product of the FCI Levadia academy, Skvortsov made his senior debut in March 2024 at just 16. During his first season, he accumulated 461 minutes across 15 appearances.

His second campaign in 2025 proved more frustrating. He spent much of the first half of the season outside the first-team squad and finished the year with only 298 minutes across 12 appearances.

The 2026 campaign has been his breakthrough. Injuries to established midfielders, including Brazilian João Pedro, opened the door for regular minutes, and Skvortsov has seized the opportunity.

At the halfway stage of the season, he has produced 5 goals and 6 assists in 18 league appearances, establishing himself as one of Estonia’s brightest young midfielders.

Transfer outlook

At the time of this report, Estonia sat 48th in UEFA’s league coefficient rankings, although recent European results had seen the league begin climbing again.

With a contract until the end of 2027, Skvortsov is unlikely to come cheaply by Estonian standards, but an estimated fee of €500,000 to €1 million could represent excellent value.

His profile is an excellent fit for Scandinavian football, particularly the Norwegian Eliteserien. Midfielders who combine work rate, technical quality, creativity and end product are always in demand.

There is little reason to rush his next move. Remaining at Levadia until at least the winter transfer window should provide regular football and potentially valuable UEFA Conference League qualification experience.

If he continues to develop at his current rate, he has every chance of establishing himself in a stronger European league.