
Key strength: Work rate
Box-to-box midfielder
In the trenches of a relegation scrap, US Lecce find themselves precariously perched in 17th position, fighting tooth and nail for survival. Amid this battle, Youssef Maleh waits in the wings—a 27-year-old Moroccan box-to-box midfielder whose work rate has earned him limited but meaningful minutes this campaign. With just 2 appearances and 180 minutes under his belt, Maleh has yet to register a goal or assist, yet his €1.5 million valuation speaks to the graft and tenacity he brings to the engine room. Behind established starters like Ylber Ramadani (70 rating) and Medon Berisha (66 rating), Maleh represents valuable squad depth—ready to cover ground, break up opposition play, and provide relief when legs tire. As Lecce navigate a grueling season fighting for Serie A survival, Maleh's tireless running and box-to-box energy could prove vital in the final, desperate weeks ahead.