Tyrone Mings

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

Standing third in the Premier League table, Aston Villa's remarkable rise under Unai Emery has been built on defensive solidity—and Tyrone Mings remains a cornerstone of that transformation. The 32-year-old England international has made 12 appearances this season, accumulating 873 minutes while contributing a crucial goal from the back. Signed for £21m from Bournemouth in 2019, Mings has evolved from a promising Championship prospect into a seasoned Premier League defender. Operating as a ball-playing centre-back, he combines commanding aerial dominance with reliable distribution, providing veteran leadership alongside Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa in Villa's rotation system. With his £4m valuation and contract running until 2027, Mings represents both stability and experience in a squad chasing European qualification. His partnership with quality full-backs and World Cup winner Emiliano Martínez behind him has transformed Villa Park into one of the division's most formidable defensive units. As the West Midlands club aim for unprecedented heights, Mings' role as defensive anchor continues to prove invaluable.