Youri Tielemans

Key strength: Passing and long-range shooting

Deep-lying playmaker

Sitting third in the Premier League table with Champions League qualification firmly in their sights, Aston Villa are enjoying one of their most successful campaigns in recent memory—and Youri Tielemans is proving to be the metronome at the heart of their midfield machine. The 28-year-old Belgian international, valued at €38 million, has quietly amassed 2 assists from his 5 appearances this season, accumulating 450 minutes of action that belie his enormous influence. After recovering from a calf injury that sidelined him early, Tielemans made an instant impact upon his return, delivering a decisive assist in Villa's crucial clash against AFC Bournemouth on November 9th. Operating as Unai Emery's deep-lying playmaker, the former Leicester City star dictates tempo with his elite passing ability (85 rating), threading incisive balls through the lines while maintaining the threat of those trademark thunderbolts from distance. Alongside midfield partners like Amadou Onana and Lewis Ferguson, Tielemans provides the creative fulcrum that transforms Villa from a counter-attacking side into genuine possession-based contenders. With his contract running until 2027, the Belgian maestro's composure and technical excellence will be pivotal as Villa navigate the congested winter schedule and stake their claim among English football's elite.