Mario Hermoso

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

At the heart of AS Roma's stunning late-season revival sits Mario Hermoso, the 30-year-old Spanish centre-back whose composure has anchored the Giallorossi's dramatic five-match winning streak. Despite Roma languishing in 20th position, their perfect run has ignited hopes of an improbable escape, with Hermoso—wearing the #22 shirt—providing the defensive foundation for this resurgence. The former Atlético Madrid defender has been virtually ever-present this campaign, logging 28 appearances and over 2,000 minutes while partnering alongside Gianluca Mancini. Though his primary duties lie at the back, Hermoso has chipped in with 2 goals and an assist—typically from his aerial prowess at set-pieces—while maintaining discipline despite six yellow cards and zero dismissals. Valued at €7 million, Hermoso represents the modern ball-playing centre-back: positionally intelligent, comfortable under pressure, and battle-tested at the highest level. As Ivan Juric's trusted lieutenant marshaling Roma's backline, his steadying presence during this perfect streak could yet transform a season of struggle into one of salvation. The question now is whether Hermoso's defensive steel can extend this miracle run and haul Roma to safety.