
Key strength: Ball retention
Deep-lying playmaker
At 35 years old, Benjamin André remains LOSC Lille's experienced anchor in midfield despite limited first-team involvement this season. While Lille sit 5th in the Ligue 1 table, the veteran French defensive midfielder has been reduced to a squad role, with his deep-lying playmaker style - built on exceptional ball retention rather than physical dynamism - finding limited opportunities against younger, higher-rated teammates like Ngal'ayel Mukau (70). André's €5m market value reflects his pedigree and defensive discipline, though his declining pace (50) and physicality (50) contrast sharply with his prime years. With attacking talents like Hákon Arnar Haraldsson and Matías Fernández-Pardo driving Lille's charge, André's role has shifted toward mentoring and squad depth. His tactical intelligence remains his greatest asset - a calming presence when called upon, even as his 4 cautions suggest the old warrior still competes fiercely in training and cameo appearances.