
Key strength: Cutting inside
Inside forward
Andreas Skov Olsen has found himself a pivotal role in Aston Villa's surprising rise to 3rd place in the Premier League, a position few pundits predicted at the season's start. The 26-year-old Danish right winger, currently valued at €10m, has adapted Unai Emery's tactical demands by evolving into an inside forward—cutting inside from the right flank to become a genuine goal threat rather than a traditional wide player. With 14 appearances and 689 minutes under his belt this season, Skov Olsen has delivered 3 goals though he's still seeking his first assist. While the numbers may appear modest, his contributions have come at crucial moments for Villa, who have been riding impressive form in recent weeks. Operating alongside talented teammates like Lewis Ferguson (75-rated) and Amadou Onana (70-rated) in midfield, Skov Olsen provides width and unpredictability that stretches opposition defenses. His playing style—with a 68 shooting rating complementing his 63 dribbling ability—shows Villa are getting value from a player who thrives when driving at defenders and finishing from cut-back positions. At 26, he's entering his prime years and could be poised for his best season yet as Villa aim to maintain their unexpected top-four charge.