Jay Idzes

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

Perched in 6th place in Serie B, US Sassuolo are navigating a turbulent campaign—three straight defeats giving way to renewed hope with a draw and victory in their last two. At the heart of this defensive resurgence stands Indonesian international Jay Idzes, the 26-year-old centre-back who has quietly become the anchor of the Neroverdi's backline. Though his statistics read modestly—three appearances, 180 minutes, no goals or assists—Idzes' true value lies far beyond the scoresheet. His €14 million market valuation dwarfs his 60 overall rating, signaling that scouts see a player of genuine Serie A caliber. Deployed in the number 21 shirt, he brings 65 defending and 60 physical stats to bear: aerial dominance, committed challenges (one yellow card already testament to his intensity), and the commanding presence that allows creative talents like Armand Laurienté to push forward with confidence. Sassuolo are chasing promotion back to Italy's top flight, and Idzes embodies the steel required for that journey. Unsung but essential, he is the defensive cornerstone upon which their Serie A dreams are being rebuilt.