Aurélien Tchouaméni

Key strength: Ball retention

Deep-lying playmaker

In a Real Madrid side sitting 2nd in La Liga and packed with attacking superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni finds himself in the shadows—an €75 million enigma with just 2 appearances and 180 minutes of action this season. The French defensive midfielder's frustratingly limited return raises questions about injury setbacks or Carlo Ancelotti's selection preferences in a stacked midfield, yet his value exists far beyond the stat sheet's zeros in goals and assists. When available, the 26-year-old operates as the deep-lying anchor who breaks up opposition transitions, shields the defense, and allows his more glamorous teammates to express themselves. His 3 yellow cards in those limited minutes hint at a combative edge and willingness to put his body on the line. As Real Madrid's title charge intensifies, Tchouaméni's return to regular minutes could provide the midfield stability that transforms their season from promising to triumphant. For now, one of Europe's most complete defensive midfielders waits in the wings.